Hiking on the Peninsulas: Empire Bluff Trail

When hiking with a 1 year old, your definition of what makes a good trail generally changes. Instead of a trail that offers mileage or seclusion, you tend to want a trail that offers bail out points early and often in case the kid gets fussy. This usually means a sacrifice in scenery.

But don't be dismayed. There is a trail in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area which requires no sacrifice. Just south of Empire, MI, the Empire Bluff Trail is an easy trail for the whole family. At a round trip distance of only 1.5 miles, this trail is packed with goodness. The trail starts off in a shaded forest. At about halfway out, there is a scenic overlook, which offers views of the Sleeping Bear Dunes and the town of Empire. Just a little further down the trail, you come up to the boardwalk, which lies on the high bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan.

Here is what you will see.

You might even see some paragliders.

And you can't forget the Caribbean blue water.

 

It doesn't get much better than this.