Visitors Shocked to Find This Sleeping Bear Dunes Landmark Gone

Most Michigan residents and visitors would probably agree that Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in the entire state.

It’s by far the best spot to take in the spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the huge dunes that drop right down to the shoreline. It’s also an awesome place to catch a glimpse of the Manitou Islands off in the distance.

Well, if you're planning a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore this summer, you might be a little disappointed if you were expecting to walk out on the wooden platform at the famous Lake Michigan Overlook. Unfortunately, it's gone.

For those who don't know, expect some shocked faces this summer.

The Wooden Platform at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Has Been Removed

According to MLive, the big wooden deck at the Lake Michigan Overlook didn’t survive the winter. Erosion did a number on it, and it had to be taken down for safety reasons.

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Over the winter, strong winds and waves undercut the sand beneath the platform, leaving some of the support beams hanging in midair. With nothing solid holding them up anymore, the park had no choice but to take the whole thing down.

Will the Wooden Platform at Sleeping Bear Dunes Be Rebuilt?

Right now, there’s no word on whether the platform will be rebuilt. Park staff haven’t made any promises, probably because the dunes are always shifting and eroding.

Having the wooden platform was awesome. It gave visitors a sturdy spot to stand without having to be in the sand. But it’s not like that beautiful view is going anywhere.

You can still stand right at the top of the dune and soak in all of Michigan’s breathtaking awesomeness.