GLEN ARBOR, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The 1.5 mile long scenic Empire Bluff Trail in Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore,  will be closed this week due to trail crew renovations. 

Empire Bluff Trail will remain closed today through Oct. 14, the crews will be using heavy equipment to connect a new re-route along the trail, according to the National Park Service

MORE NEWS: School Audits are More Than Data; They Tell a Story and the State Stopped Posting Them

Park staff, youth groups, and volunteers have worked together to improve the trail with new drainage features and a re-route of a steep eroding section. The improvements will reduce erosion and resource impacts to improve the trail’s sustainability, the park service said.

The National Park service classifies the trail as having hilly terrain and lists beech-maple forest, fields, and dune plants among the popular foliage along the trail.  The NPS asks for the safety of hikers and the environment, not to descend the bluff.  

In the other three seasons, hikers can make stops along all 6 posts, though in the winter, the hike is shortened at post #6 because of hazardous ice and snow conditions on the boardwalks and bluffs NPS asks. 

The trail is located just north of the Old Baldy Dune and Historic Tweddle and Treat Farms.  

Hikers seeking trails with similar distances should look into the Windy Moraine Trail or the Cottonwood Hiking Trail as they are both roughly 1.5 miles long. 

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Ranger station offers some helpful tips for hikers to avoid endangering themselves, others, and the environment below: 

  • Choose a trail appropriate to your ability.
  • Travel with a companion and notify someone of your route and expected return time.
  • Deer rifle season is November 15-30. Other hunting seasons occur throughout the year. Bright-colored clothing is recommended during these times.
  • Stay off steep bluffs to avoid falls and dislodging rocks that can injure people below.
  • Snow avalanche or sand slide danger is present year-round on steep dunes and bluffs.
  • Be careful of your footing. Trails include uneven ground, exposed roots, etc. Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Carry drinking water.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Poison ivy is common. Learn to recognize it. Remember: Leaflets three, let it be.
  • Be prepared for mosquitoes.
  • Skiers: be aware of changing snow conditions. Alternate freeze/thaw can turn gentle slopes into icy, advanced hills.
  • Darkness comes early in winter. Allow plenty of time to return to your vehicle before dark.
  • Dress for the weather. In winter carry extra clothing and emergency supplies.

MORE NEWS: Michigan Introduces $10,000 Tax Credit for Live Organ Donors

Follow updates about trail conditions here.