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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Celebrates 50th Anniversary In 2020

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Published Date

December 19, 2019
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore marks its 50th anniversary in 2020/NPS

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore marks its 50th anniversary in 2020/NPS

A year-long celebration is planned for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 2020 to mark the park's 50th birthday.

As the new year approaches, there is a lot in store from the release of the national lakeshore’s mobile app to monthly special events, social media content, and a 50th anniversary park pass. The lakeshore staff is planning a year of honoring the past, celebrating today, and planning for the future.

“The story of Sleeping Bear Dunes is not finished. We are excited to engage with the community as we look forward to the next 50 years,” said Superintendent Scott Tucker. 

Kick-off Event

The national lakeshore’s 50th anniversary activities start with a kick-off celebration on Saturday, January 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dune Climb. Join park rangers and volunteers from the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes and Historic Sleeping Bear for a “Hibernation Celebration” full of fun winter activities. Build a snow sculpture, sled down the dunes (remember to BYOS (Bring Your Own Sled)), try snowball target practice, borrow snowshoes to enjoy the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, and sip hot chocolate by a fire. There will be a warming station with craft activities in the Dune Center. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes will be offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The event is free with a park pass.

Mobile App

The national lakeshore has released its first mobile app. Go to https://apps.apple.com/app/id1488513204 and download it for free today. The app is currently available for download to Apple devices, with an Android version coming soon. The app helps you discover information about popular sites, find park services, see new photos while learning more about favorite historic places, and explore little known natural features.  

Park Pass

Starting on Friday, December 20, stop by the park’s Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire, Michigan, to get your very own 50th anniversary pass. They also make great gifts. Every year, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore sells more than 11,000 annual park entrance passes. With a regular seven-day entrance pass ringing up for $25, the annual pass pays for itself in only two visits. Passes are valid for 12 months, and provide free entry for the holder and occupants in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle. If entry is by foot, bicycle, or organized group not part of a commercial tour, the pass admits the pass holder and three adults (16 years of age or older). Children under 16 have free admission to the National Lakeshore. 

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