Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Ski Trail

Distance
Loops totaling 8 miles of trail.

Terrain
Hilly

Vegetation
Beech-maple forest

Comments
The trail includes the Shauger Hill Hiking Trail and the unplowed Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. It offers views of Lake Michigan and the dunes. For your safety, stay back from the edge of the steep bluff. Pets are not allowed on this section of the trail between December 1 and March 31.

 

Scenic Drive Ski Trail Map

NPS Map 2006

 

Covered Bridge on Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Kerry Kelly 2008

After the snow starts to fly, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is closed to traffic and the skiers and snowshoers take over. This view of the Covered Bridge is near the beginning of the trail.

 

Lake Michigan Overlook after a snowfall.

Kerry Kelly 2008

Ski to the top of the Lake Michigan Overlook and view the winterscape along the Lake Michigan shore. Be careful where you go, because if you fall, you will end up taking a FAST slide to the bottom of the bluff 450 feet below! Not only is the trip down dangerous, but the hike back up the frozen bluff is nearly impossible.

 

Lake Michigan from the bluff on Pierce Stocking Drive.

Kerry Kelly 2008

This winter view of the Lake Michigan Overlook from the top of the bluff south of the Overlook. Note South Manitou Island in the background.