Explore Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Dune Plateau

NPS

Enjoy spectacular views of Glen Lake, undulating sand dunes, and breathtaking views of the grandest of all dunes, with shimmering Lake Michigan as the backdrop. Wind through cool forests of sugar maple and beech trees. Take a moment along the way to enjoy a picnic, take a walk, or just linger in the sunshine.
 

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is open to vehicles seasonally.

The drive is open for hiking and walk-in recreation during the vehicle closure. The road includes steep inclines that may become hazardous due to wet leaves, wind, and rain, which can create slippery and unsafe conditions. Visitors are advised to use caution.

Open to vehicles generally: late May until late October.

• Drive slow, 20 mph. 
• Watch for bikers and motorcyclists.
• Park only in designated parking spots.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Trailers are not permitted. 
• Vehicle clearance maximum is 13 feet 6 inches.

Address

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
8500 Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Empire, MI 49630

What to expect

As you turn onto Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, there is a parking lot on the right-hand side. The Scenic Drive does not allow trailers. This is the best location to leave your trailer to enjoy the Scenic Drive. Vault toilets are also available here. The parking lot also serves hikers, bikers, and skiers as the Pierce Stocking trailhead for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and as the Shauger Hill trail trailhead.

Details

Duration

1-4 Hours

Distance

The Scenic Drive is approximately 7.4 miles on a one-way loop. There are twelve points on the Scenic Drive, stopping at each stop will take about two hours. 

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Enjoy spectacular views of Glen Lake, undulating sand dunes, and breathtaking views of the grandest of all dunes, with shimmering Lake Michigan as the backdrop. Wind through cool forests of sugar maple and beech trees. Take a moment along the way to enjoy a picnic, take a walk, or just linger in the sunshine.

Additional Details

• The iconic Lake Michigan Overlook is located on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
• Download the free NPS app for a self-guided map and tour.
• Take a virtual tour to get ready for your visit.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Leashed pets are permitted on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Pets are not allowed on the trail systems through the dunes except for the Cottonwood Trail.

Activity Fee

Yes

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore charges a variety of fees, depending on how a visitor arrives at the park, and whether they're part of a commercial tour group or not.

Visit the fees page to find the pass that is best for you.

Location

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is open to vehicles seasonally.

The drive is open for hiking and walk-in recreation during the vehicle closure. The road includes steep inclines that may become hazardous due to wet leaves, wind, and rain, which can create slippery and unsafe conditions. Visitors are advised to use caution.

Generally: late May until late October.

• Drive slow, 20 mph. 
• Watch for bikers and motorcyclists.
• Park only in designated parking spots.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Trailers are not permitted. 
• Vehicle clearance maximum is 13 feet 6 inches.

Address

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
8500 Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Empire, MI 49630

What to expect

As you turn onto Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, there is a parking lot on the right-hand side. The Scenic Drive does not allow trailers. This is the best location to leave your trailer to enjoy the Scenic Drive. Vault toilets are also available here. The parking lot also serves hikers, bikers, and skiers as the Pierce Stocking trailhead for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and as the Shauger Hill trail trailhead.

Hours

Roads, trailheads, and parking lots in the Lakeshore are open 24 hours a day. Campgrounds, visitor centers, and facilities have separate hours. 
Camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds and campsites. Off-trail camping, boondocking, or overnight parking for sleeping is illegal within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is closed to vehicles for the annual winter and spring closure. 

The drive is open for hiking and walk-in recreation during the vehicle closure. The road includes steep inclines that may become hazardous due to wet leaves, wind, and rain, which can create slippery and unsafe conditions. Visitors are advised to use caution.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers a 7.4 mile loop with beautiful views of Lake Michigan, the Glen Lakes, and the dunes, much of which can be appreciated through the vehicle windows. The twelve stops along the way allow for a leisurely pace.

Accessible parking and toilets are at four locations: the entrance trailer parking area, Picnic Mountain, #9 Lake Michigan Overlook, and #11 North Bar Lake Overlook and picnic area.

Running water and flush toilets are accessible at Picnic Mountain. A hard-surfaced picnic area with table and raised grill is also available.

The #3 Dunes Overlook has a ramped deck with two levels lined with benches. The stunning panorama of dunes and lake views may also be seen from the circle drive.

The #9 Lake Michigan Overlook and #10 Sleeping Bear Dune Overlook are not handicap accessible and require following a steep asphalt trail and loose sand.

The #11 North Bar Lake Overlook picnic area is fairly flat with tables and raised grills located near accessible parking. Accessible vault toilets are provided, but there is no running water at this location.