Empire Bluff Trail is a relatively easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike with some of the best views in Sleeping Bear Dunes. It’s popular for a reason—the views from the overlook are beautiful—but that also means it can get very busy during the summer months.
We hiked it with my 3-year-old and 1.5-year-old. My 3-year-old walked the entire trail, while my younger one rode in the carrier.
We started around 8:30 AM and finished in about an hour. Going early made a huge difference—we had plenty of parking and barely saw anyone else on the trail.
The trail was manageable with little kids, although I definitely had a tired toddler by the end. The views at the overlook make it worth it, with Lake Michigan, the dunes, and South Bar Lake all visible from the top.
Good to Know
About 1.5 miles round trip
Relatively easy trail, but there are some hills and uneven sections
Gets very busy during the summer
Carrier recommended for little ones
National Park pass required
Go early for easier parking and fewer people
Bring water, a snack, and bug spray
There are drop-offs at the overlook, so keep little ones close
If you’re building a list of trails to explore with the kiddos, add Empire Bluff Trail to it.
Pair it with: A beach stop at Empire Beach or lunch at Shipwreck Cafe in Empire.
