The natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is hard to beat, and there’s a hiking path onshore that’s simply breathtaking on this beautiful trail in Michigan. The Alligator Hill Trail has a little bit of climbing, but it rewards hikers with sweeping views of the park and Lake Michigan. Bring your camera — this is one of the most photogenic hikes in the state and one of the best hikes in Michigan! Here’s what you need to know in order to tackle this amazing trail in Michigan.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore includes a 35-mile stretch of coast on the lower peninsula of Michigan in Leelanau and Benzie counties.
Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor Township, MI 49636, USA
Alltrails/Cathi Suhling
It beckons visitors with its incredible dunes and wild natural scenery.
The lakeshore includes dense forests, pristine beaches, huge dunes, and ancient glacial remnants.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Maple City, MI 49664, USA
Alltrails/Destiny Stack
The Alligator Hill Trail will allow you to take in some of the park’s best features for some of the best hiking in Michigan.
The loop trail runs a little under five miles.
Alligator Hill Trail, Stocking Rd, Empire, MI 49630, USA
Alltrails/Andrew TerAvest
It’s used for hiking, walking, equestrian riding, and cross-country skiing. If you’re not up for the whole loop, an out-and-back hike on part of the trail will still offer some nice views.

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In 2014, "Good Morning America" named this area the “most beautiful place in America.”
Stephanie Armstrong/AllTrails
It’s hard to disagree with their choice.
The trail is well-marked and maintained, but you’ll want to follow the signs or you may end up taking a longer hike!
Alltrails/Rebecca Webster
To be safe you may want to bring a map.
The trail is shady and has no steep climbs, so it’s good for beginners.
Mukul Bafana/AllTrails
The trail takes you to some incredible vistas of Lake Michigan; allow plenty of time to savor the pristine panoramas!

A fee is required to enter the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Annual passes are available. See entrance information and other details of the park on the Sleeping Bear Dunes’ website through the National Park Service.

And if you love taking in gorgeous Michigan hikes, here are a few waterfall hikes that will get your imagination flowing.

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