After visiting Sable Falls on the northeastern edge of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, head west along the shoreline. Overlooks, cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, lakes, forests, and the shoreline dot this stunning lakeshore. Three of my favorite non-waterfall places were Log Slide Overlook, Hurricane River, and the Sand Point Marsh Trail.
Grand Sable Lake Overlook
Our first stop after Sable Falls, was the overlook for Grand Sable Lake. It was a hazy morning with smoke from the Canadian forest fires, but we were still able to see the woods across the lake.
Log Slide Overlook
Next was the stop for Log Slide Overlook. The overlook sits 175 feet above Lake Superior on Grand Sable Dunes. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the dunes.
There used to be a viewing platform which was destroyed by winter weather and erosion. Visitors can still walk up to the cliffside but take care to watch your step. You can work your way down the steep slope, but it is challenging work getting back up and signs warn visitors with heart conditions or breathing problems not to try.
Historically there was a wooden chute that logging companies used to slide logs down to the lake for loading onto boats. Along the trail to the overlook, there is a shed with logging equipment and an information board explaining their history and purpose.
From the cliff you also get a view of Au Sable Light Station in the distance.
Au Sable Light Station Trailhead
From this trailhead there are several sights including the lighthouse, Hurricane River, and the beach.
If you want to view the lighthouse up close, hike 1.5 miles from the parking lot through the campground and Coast Guard access road.
We loved the small cascades on Hurricane River just before it hits the beach. You can see it from the beach where the cascades bleed color onto the sand or stand on a small bridge over the river and look out toward the beach.
Make sure to take time to stroll down the beach. Watch waves coming in and gulls take flight.
Sand Point Marsh Trail
The trail begins across the parking lot from Sand Point Beach. The half-mile trail, much of which is an elevated boardwalk, is universally accessible. There are a few benches incorporated with the boardwalk along the way. Travel through wetlands with cattails, lily pads, and flowers.
It is a wonderful place for birding – we saw blue jays, sparrows, waxwings, warblers, sparrows, and an egret. Other winged finds include butterflies and dragonflies.
We also spotted many frogs in the marsh, both in the water and on the muddy edge.
Once you have enjoyed these beautiful sights, check out all the other amazing options in Pictured Rocks. Have you ever walked the Sand Point Marsh Trail or visited Log Slide? What was your favorite spot? Comment below!
Related Posts
- Sable Falls – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Miners Falls, Miners Castle Point, and Miners Beach – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Mosquito Falls and Spectacle Falls – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Munising Falls – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Exploring Seney National Wildlife Refuge
- The Complete Road Trip Guide
The amount of time you must have spent hiking in Michigan might be difficult for me. What would be the shortest time needed to see all the wonderful sights? I’m enjoying your descriptions so much. Thank you