With stunning vistas and grandiose sand dunes, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a true gem of northern Michigan. This 7.4 mile scenic drive is filled with breathtaking views to remember for a lifetime. Named for its developer, Pierce Stocking, plans for the drive were established in the early 1960s and first opened to the public in 1967. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, are fond of capturing the beauty of the landscapes through photography, or are simply in search of peace and serenity, add Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to your list of destinations for your next adventure!
The drive was established to pay tribute to Pierce Stocking, a local lumberman who was mesmerized by the scenic area, well before it came to fruition. Thanks to Pierce Stocking, who ultimately had the idea for the drive, the accessible drive exists for all to enjoy and allows everyone to know the beauty this place holds.
To give a sense of what to expect, here are some of the views you can expect to see: One of the first stops on the scenic drive is the picturesque tree-lined covered bridge that looks like a scene from a movie. The beginning of the trail starts with the covered bridge which is a very highlighted part of the trail. Despite its rustic appearance, it offers a wonderful spot for photography and it’s a wonderful start to an epic journey.
Then, enjoy magnificent views of Glen Lake’s vibrant blue waters on the hillside, providing passersby with the opportunity to capture the turquoise water and the thriving greenery that surrounds the area. Don’t miss this wonderful stop!
Onwards to the dune overlook that towers over Lake Michigan in all of its beauty and glory, with a landscape that is nonetheless just as beautiful as the lake. For courageous visitors, climb the steep inclined dune down to the very bottom and back up again (but note – this climb is not for the faint of heart – proceed with extreme caution) and for those seeking solace, find a nice spot in the sand to sit and watch the waves roll in with the tide.
At this point in the trail, if you need to stretch your legs, take the Cottonwood Trail for a short hike to another beautiful overlook. Further into the drive, layers and layers of a beech-maple forest in every direction, its seasonal beauty lives deep in the marrow of the woods, all year round. These features, and more, make the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive a destination that keeps on giving.
Along the drive, there are additional stops that are irresistible to stop and admire, such as Lake Michigan and the North Bar Lake, both separated by an isthmus. Lake Michigan with its glistening blue water taking over 450 feet above the land. Standing beneath steep land is a challenge for those adventurous visitors to jump into the shoreline but the climb back is admittedly not easy and not for you unless you have an extremely brave heart. While on the other hand, the North Bar Lake is an island lake. Due to the difference in the water color, it provides a wonderful overlook that is very popular among photography enthusiasts.
Toward the end of the drive, a scenic picnic area is the perfect stop to relax and enjoy time with family and friends. It is equipped with picnic tables surrounded by forest and an ideal backdrop one would wish for to enjoy serenity and just admire and take in the views. Have a bite to eat, read a book, or just enjoy a nice shady spot to escape the heat of the day.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is an ideal scenery for anyone to enjoy. The diverse views as the drive continues is a wonderful experience for shared memories. So, grab a picnic basket, get your essentials, and start the engines for an epic adventure to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive!