A day spent outdoors is so refreshing, especially when you follow it up with lakeside patio dining. While the name may sound scary, Alligator Hill is anything but. Don’t worry, there are no alligators here, just serene hiking trails and wonderful views! Follow that up with a delectable gourmet dinner on a patio overlooking Sleeping Bear Bay at Blu in Glen Arbor, Michigan.

Alligator Hill has trails for every level of exertion: easy, intermediate, and advanced. People love to come here not just for hiking, but cross-country skiing in winter and horseback riding. April through November are the best times to visit.
Holly Thomas/AllTrails
The trails are lush and beautiful and they are such a welcome relief from life in the city. The sounds of the wind in the trees and of singing birds will dissolve your cares away.
James Waldecker/AllTrails
Once you reach the top of the hill, you'll be enchanted by this overlook where you can see Lake Michigan in all its splendor. Few places are as gorgeous as where the forest meets the water.
Tim Crowe/AllTrails

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Once you've worked up an appetite on the trails, head over to nearby Blu, where each dish is a feast for your tastebuds and your eyes. It's upscale, but so very worth it.
Blu/Google Maps
Their creative and often-changing menu is sure to please the most finicky eaters. You can dine on the patio and look out over the bay!
Prime beef tenderloin, Cambozola, leek tart, demi glacé, and trumpet mushrooms...you can tell the chef really knows their craft.
Blu/Facebook
The rack of lamb comes with Dijon cream, roasted beets, and garlic confit. Everyone should have the chance to eat like this at least once in their lives.
Molly Current/Google Maps
Of course, the desserts would have to be as lovely as the entrees. This Nutella cheesecake is pure chocolatey decadence. They also have a Jack Daniel's Malted Milk Chocolate Tart that you should not miss.
Blu/Google Maps

These aren’t the only things to do in Glen Arbor. Find out where you can find great shopping, boating, dune exploring, and more. If you’d love to get some more lush, lakeview hiking in, it’s hard to beat Glen Lake. This whole area is perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip from nearby Traverse City, which is less than 40 minutes away.

Have you been to any of these places? Let us know what else shouldn’t be missed.

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Empire, MI 49630, USA
5705 S Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA