No doubt, Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore is one of the most beloved natural wonders in all of Michigan. Its spectacular rolling dunes and pristine hiking trails ensure endless summer fun.
There’s something else about Sleeping Bear that, if you’re in the know, can make for a unique experience for the whole family. It’s the Platte River, which runs through the national lakeshore’s boundaries. It’s the perfect place for splashing about on summer days. Find out just why this is the perfect outdoor oasis.
Just when you thought you knew Sleeping Bear…
Amy Selleck/Flickr
There’s the slow rolling, shallow waters that make up the Platte River.
Mark Goebel/Flickr
If you’ve got little ones in tow, you’ve got the Lower Platte (pictured here).
Kari/Flickr
The gentle current of the Lower Platte - to be traverse by raft, kayak, canoe, or inner-tube - takes you to Loon Lake….
Don…The UpNorth Memories Guy… Harrison/Flickr
All the way down to the opening of Lake Michigan.
Kiyo/Flickr
And its sandy, sugary beach.
Ken Bosma/Flickr
For the more advanced, there’s the Upper Platte, with not-quite-white rapids.
Riverside Canoe Trips/Facebook
Throughout the trip, you’ll encounter plenty of wild flowers and birds.
Riverside Canoe Trips/Facebook
Yeah, this looks like the coolest place you want to be, especially when the temps go up. Tell us, is this your favorite Michigan oasis?
Amy Selleck/Flickr
Mark Goebel/Flickr
Kari/Flickr
Don…The UpNorth Memories Guy… Harrison/Flickr
Kiyo/Flickr
Ken Bosma/Flickr
Riverside Canoe Trips/Facebook
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