This year Sleeping Bear Dunes became the 50th National Park designated with Wilderness status. Hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to the region to enjoy the massive sand dunes, maple forests, sandy beaches and miles of hiking trails. It's been several years since I've visited the dunes and it was incredible to see all the changes. Among the new additions is the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a paved multi-use trail that winds throughout the National Lakeshore connecting Glen Arbor and Empire. Plans to extend into the Port Oneida area are in the works.  

I spent a few days this fall in the area getting away from the pressure of deadlines and the daily grind and it was nice to recharge my batteries. It's a magical time of the year to visit. Crowds are almost non-existent, campgrounds are quiet and the fall colors are amazing. Here are just a few of the images.