Log Slide Overlook
Experience the awe-inspiring Grand Sable Dunes and vast Lake Superior from this iconic overlook, a testament to nature's power and Michigan's logging ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Magical light on the dunes
Log Slide Overlook
Best Time
Magical light on the dunes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring Grand Sable Dunes and vast Lake Superior from this iconic overlook, a testament to nature's power and Michigan's logging past.
"One of my favorite views of Lake Superior that I've recently seen."
⚠️ Fear of Heights? Proceed with Caution
The final ascent is a steep sand dune. If heights make you uneasy, enjoy the views from the lower interpretive signs.
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Loose sand makes climbing challenging. Sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to descend.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Sable Dunes
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Vast, impressive perched dunes offering a unique geological spectacle and a feeling of awe.
Lake Superior Vistas
Log Slide Overlook
Unreal, picturesque views of the vast, clear blue waters of Lake Superior.
Historic Logging Interpretive Signs
Path to the overlook
Learn about the area's logging history with interesting displays of old equipment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dunes, Mind the Heights
Timing is Key for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Fear of Heights? Proceed with Caution
The final ascent is a steep sand dune. If heights make you uneasy, enjoy the views from the lower interpretive signs.
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Loose sand makes climbing challenging. Sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to descend.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The panoramic views of Lake Superior and the dunes are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Extra Time for Ascent
Climbing back up the dune can be tiring. Plan accordingly, especially if you have children.
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Fear of Heights? Proceed with Caution
The final ascent is a steep sand dune. If heights make you uneasy, enjoy the views from the lower interpretive signs.
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Loose sand makes climbing challenging. Sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to descend.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The panoramic views of Lake Superior and the dunes are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Allow Extra Time for Ascent
Climbing back up the dune can be tiring. Plan accordingly, especially if you have children.
🌳 Scenic Drive Included
The drive to the overlook is beautiful, with lush trees and glimpses of the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently wowed by the breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the impressive Grand Sable Dunes, often calling it one of the most picturesque spots in Pictured Rocks. While the climb up the sand dune can be challenging, the historical interpretive signs and the overall scenic beauty make it a highly recommended stop. Some find the view slightly less varied than other overlooks, but the unique dune formation is a major draw.
"350 foot walk from the parking lot with a couple benches along the way. Apparently there used to be an overlook platform that no longer exists. The last 30 feet is a path up a sand dune in loose sand where, at the top, you can just see what was the top of the log chute. Interesting interpretive signs along the way. The view at the Twelvemile Beach Overlook is better and an easier access. Nice picnic area here though."
Susan Baranoff
"Log Slide Overlook in a word...Wow. Had previously foolishly put this stop on the back burner as well just how great does a log slide sound? However it's one of my favorite views of Lake Superior that ive recently seen. I could just imagine how amazing a sunrise would be to take in at this location. I've been to Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes and while yes the views there of Lake Michigan are great. I think however I'd have to say between log slide overlook, and Grand Sable Dunes I truly believe Pictured Rocks is more picturesque overall. I know Lower Peninsula Michiganders love to love Lake Michigan but only one Great Lake can be Superior. And it can't be beat."
Keith Gordon
"Path to see dunes is a very easy walk and not far from parking lot. There is a display of the old equipment used along the way and several spots to read about life in the days of the loggers way back. Although you have some great views from up there I was a little disappointed and didn't really see much except the dunes and a lighthouse in the distance."
D'Nisha Channey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Log Slide Overlook is located on the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, about 7 miles west of Grand Marais, Michigan, along Highway M-28. It's a well-marked stop with a parking area.
Yes, the drive along the North Shore and M-28 is known for its beautiful scenery, with many trees and occasional views of Lake Superior, making it a pleasant part of the journey.
While the overlook itself is generally accessible, winter conditions can make roads and trails challenging. Check local conditions before visiting in the colder months.
Yes, the Log Slide Overlook is a key feature within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, offering views of the Grand Sable Dunes.
Yes, the Twelvemile Beach Overlook is nearby and offers great views with easier access, according to some visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Log Slide Overlook. It is part of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which is free to enter.
The overlook is open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but access may be limited by weather conditions in winter.
Yes, there is a parking area available at the trailhead for the Log Slide Overlook. It can fill up during peak season.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore does not have an entrance fee. However, there may be fees for specific campgrounds or activities within the park.
While there isn't a specific tour for just the overlook, many Pictured Rocks boat tours or guided hikes may pass by or include stops near the Grand Sable Dunes area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from the parking lot is about 350 feet, featuring interpretive signs about the area's logging history. The final 30 feet involve climbing a steep sand dune.
Yes, you can climb the sand dunes. Be prepared for loose sand, and remember that climbing back up can be challenging.
You'll get stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior and the expansive Grand Sable Dunes, which are a unique geological formation.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main visitor centers or larger picnic areas within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, but may be limited directly at the overlook.
Children might enjoy the interpretive signs and the novelty of the dunes, but the steep sand climb can be difficult for younger kids or those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise offers dramatic lighting on the dunes and lake. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful, soft light for capturing the scenery.
You can capture sweeping landscapes of Lake Superior, the towering Grand Sable Dunes, and historical logging equipment.
The main overlook provides the primary vantage point. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the dunes and the vastness of the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Consider a tripod for sunrise or sunset shots.
While a lighthouse might be visible in the distance, it's not the primary focus from this overlook. The Grand Sable Dunes and Lake Superior are the main subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider letting older children try climbing the dune for an adventure, but be prepared for the effort required to get back up. For younger children or those with mobility concerns, enjoying the views from the lower interpretive areas might be more suitable. The scenic drive to the overlook is also a pleasant experience for families.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the geological significance of the perched dunes and the clear, expansive views of Lake Superior. The area is also rich in history, with remnants of the logging era providing an educational component to the visit. Remember to wear sturdy footwear suitable for sandy terrain.
📸 Photographers
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. While the main overlook offers the primary viewpoint, exploring different angles can yield unique shots. The historical logging equipment displayed along the path also provides interesting foreground elements for your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Sable Dunes: A Geological Marvel
Visitors can explore the base of these dunes and even attempt to climb them, though the loose sand presents a significant challenge. The sheer scale of the dunes makes you feel incredibly small, offering a profound connection with nature's grandeur. The unique ecosystem supported by these dunes is also a point of interest for nature enthusiasts.
While the Log Slide Overlook provides a fantastic vantage point, the Grand Sable Dunes extend for miles, offering further opportunities for exploration for those seeking a more immersive experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for the physical exertion involved in navigating the sandy terrain.
Echoes of the Logging Era
Along the path leading to the overlook, you'll find interpretive signs detailing the lives of the loggers and the methods they used. These signs often feature displays of old logging equipment, offering a tangible connection to the past. It's a fascinating glimpse into the industry that shaped the early economy of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Understanding this history adds another layer of appreciation to the stunning natural beauty. It highlights the human endeavor that once dominated this landscape, now reclaimed by nature and preserved for visitors to experience.
Lake Superior: The Majestic Great Lake
+1From the overlook, the vast expanse of Lake Superior stretches to the horizon, offering breathtaking views that have captivated visitors for generations. The lake's moods can change rapidly, from calm and serene to wild and tempestuous, adding to its allure. It's a constant, awe-inspiring backdrop to the natural beauty of Pictured Rocks.
Many visitors find the views of Lake Superior from Log Slide Overlook to be superior to those of Lake Michigan, emphasizing its unique grandeur. The lake is not just a scenic element but a vital part of the region's ecosystem and history.
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