Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located along Lake Michigan in the State of Michigan, Leelanau County and Benzie County, near Traverse City Michigan, in the USA. Can I rent boats? Every season draws us to this magnificent natural area of Northern Lower Michigan. The season that draws you really depends on what you like to do. In the summer, you will find this area of Michigan bustling with activity, shops, and arts & craft shows. You can relax on the beach, camp, float down the river, or visit some of the museums. Fall provides beautiful views of the colored leaves and blue water of Lake Michigan set against the crystal clear blue sky. The crisp air is perfect for taking a hike to the many scenic visitas in the park. Winter offers beautiful white, quiet snowshoeing and skiing through the woods or a brisk walk along the icy shores of Lake Michigan. On a cold winter, you will see piles of ice blocks on the shore and get an appreciation of the power of nature to change the shore. Spring brings a splash of color as nature awakens from the cold, white blanket of snow. Enjoy a walk through the woods or meadows and enjoy a wide variety of wildflowers.