Friends Programs
Explore the many programs we have
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is so entwined with the local communities that it makes sense that Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes has a variety of programs to support the park. From helping to keep the roads, rivers, and trails clean, accessible, and safe, to enhancing the visitor experience and getting people out there so they can enjoy the gem we know we have in our own back yards, our goal is to keep this place precious for everyone. If you’re interested in building community and showing love to this special park, check out the programs we offer!
Accessibility
Bear Tracks, our Accessibility Program, helps everyone enjoy the park by providing accessible trails, beaches, and equipment for visitors of all abilities.
Adopt-a-Beach
Adopt-A-Beach Program helps create a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable shoreline experience for all visitors through regular volunteer-led cleanups and care.
Adopt-a-Highway
A program that maintains a section of M-109 from Glen Haven to just south of the Dune Climb, keeping it free of litter for both park visitors and local wildlife.
Adopt-a-River
Adopt-A-River connects volunteers with the Crystal and Platte Rivers to help keep them clean, healthy, and enjoyable for local wildlife and visitors alike.
Adopt-a-Trail
Volunteers have the opportunity to care for a diversity of trails across the Park, from scenic overlooks to peaceful forest paths, ensuring they remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for all.
Dark Sky Certification
With the Dark Sky Certification program, it’s our aim to reduce light pollution and protect natural nightscapes, providing outstanding stargazing opportunities and preserving nocturnal ecosystems.
Preventative Search & Rescue
The goal of the Preventative Search and Rescue (PSAR) program is to prevent search and rescue incidents by educating visitors on safety, monitoring trail and water conditions, and promoting responsible park use.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail Ambassador
Our orange vest Ambassadors help visitors explore the trail safely, learn fun facts, and enjoy the beauty of the park while encouraging responsible use.
Yoga on the Beach
Yoga on the Beach offers all-level, donation-based classes every Friday morning at 10 AM from late June through early September at Sleeping Bear Point, where participants can enjoy a peaceful lakeside setting, stretch, relax, and support park projects through their donations.
Trail Crew
The Trail Crew works to maintain and improve trails by clearing debris, repairing surfaces, and ensuring safe and enjoyable paths for all visitors.