Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Michigan
23

Michigan State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Michigan
Upper Peninsula Region
Grand Sable State Forest
Robin © stateparks.com
Oh Yell © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
GRAND SABLE STATE FOREST
GRAND SABLE STATE FOREST
The Grand Sable State Forest in Michigan encompasses a breathtaking natural landscape composed of majestic sand dunes, pristine forests, and stunning Lake Superior shoreline. Spanning over 20,000 acres, this enchanting forest offers a unique blend of diverse ecosystems, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature while engaging in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, birdwatching, and fishing. The towering Grand Sable Dunes, reaching heights of up to 300 feet, stand as a testament to the forces of nature, providing unparalleled scenic views of the surrounding area. Whether exploring the dense woods, marveling at the ever-changing dune formations, or relishing in the serenity of Lake Superior's waters, the Grand Sable State Forest offers a captivating experience that will leave nature enthusiasts in awe.
History of the Area
Grand Sable State Forest is a forested area located in the northeastern part of the state of Michigan, near Lake Superior. Its history dates back to colonization and settlement of the region by European settlers.

The forest area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Ojibwe people, who had a deep connection to the land and its resources. However, with the arrival of European settlers in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the indigenous communities were gradually displaced and their way of life disrupted.

In the early 19th century, the United States government began surveying and dividing land in Michigan. The Grand Sable area was included in various land grants and sales, leading to the fragmentation of the landownership. Many individuals and companies acquired parcels of the land, including lumber companies that aimed to exploit the vast timber resources in the region.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, extensive logging activities took place in the forest. The large white pine and hardwood trees were highly sought after and harvested for their timber. Many sawmills were established in the area to process the logs, and railroads were constructed to transport the timber to other regions.

The logging practices of the time were often unsustainable, leading to widespread deforestation and environmental degradation. By the early 20th century, much of the land in the Grand Sable area had been clear-cut, resulting in a barren landscape.

Recognizing the importance of protecting the remaining natural resources and the need for reforestation, efforts were made to conserve the area. The Michigan Department of Conservation, which later became the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), began acquiring land in the 1920s and 1930s to establish state forests.

Grand Sable State Forest was formally established in 1936 when the state purchased approximately 7,200 acres of land in Alger County. Over the years, the DNR has expanded its landholdings in the forest, and today, Grand Sable State Forest encompasses over 14,000 acres.

The forest is managed by the DNR with a focus on sustainable forestry, recreation, and wildlife habitat conservation. It provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The Grand Sable Dunes, located within the state forest, are an iconic feature of the area, towering up to 300 feet above Lake Superior.

The history of Grand Sable State Forest is marked by the exploitation of its natural resources, the subsequent degradation of the land, and ongoing efforts to restore and conserve the area for future generations.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental


Location
Grand Sable State Forest is

Trails
1. Grand Sable Dunes Trail: This trail is a 2-mile round trip that takes hikers through the impressive sand dune formations of the forest, offering panoramic views over Lake Superior.

2. Log Slide Overlook and Au Sable Light Station Trail: A moderate level hike stretching for about 6 miles, this trail offers stunning vistas from atop cliffs overlooking Lake Superior as well as historical insights at an old lighthouse station.

3. North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT): The NCT runs across seven states including Michigan where it passes through parts of Grand Sable State Forest providing diverse hiking experiences ranging from easy to strenuous levels with varying lengths up to several hundred miles in total length.

4. Pictured Rocks Cliffs Section Hike - Chapel Loop: An approximately ten mile loop which includes some steep sections but rewards with breathtaking cliff-top views along its route near Munising Bay on Lake Superior's southern shore within close proximity of waterfalls and other natural features unique to Upper Peninsula region.

5. White Pine-Backpacking Campground Trails: Two separate trails each around two-and-a-half-miles long leading towards campgrounds suitable for overnight stays amidst white pine forests typical of northern Michigan landscapes; both are considered moderately difficult due mainly their uneven terrains rather than any significant elevation changes involved during hikes thereon.

6. Superior Shoreline Traverse: This challenging trek spans roughly five miles one way following closely alongside lake shoreline while traversing rocky outcrops interspersed by sandy beaches making it popular among more adventurous outdoor enthusiasts seeking off-beaten-path type adventures away crowded tourist spots elsewhere within park boundaries.

7. Twelve Mile Beach Trekking Route: A relatively flat yet scenic coastal path extending twelve full-lengths between designated parking areas located either end thereby allowing flexibility regarding starting points depending upon individual preferences or time constraints etc., besides being ideal choice especially those interested bird-watching activities given its proximity to various bird species habitats found along this particular stretch of coastline.

8. Sable Falls Trail: A short, 0.75-mile trail that leads hikers down a series of steps and boardwalks towards the beautiful cascading waterfall known as Sable Falls; it's an easy hike but can be slippery when wet.

9. Mosquito River Loop: This approximately eleven mile loop combines sections from North Country National Scenic Trail with other local trails forming circular route encompassing diverse range natural features including river valleys, hardwood forests besides offering cliff-top views over Lake Superior at certain points throughout journey making it one most comprehensive hiking options available within Grand Sable State Forest area overall.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Directions
1. Start by heading north on M:28 from Munising.
2. Continue driving for approximately 5 miles until you see a sign indicating "Grand Sable Dunes.".
3. Turn left onto Chapel Road and drive for about 0.4 miles.
4. Take another left onto H58 (also known as Sand Point Road).
5. Follow H58 for around 7 miles until you arrive at the parking area designated for visitors to Grand Sable Dunes.

state route ranger badge
Michigan
23

Michigan State Parks

X