Spring in Glen Arbor transforms Leelanau County into a breathtaking escape. From the pristine shores of Empire Beach—hailed by National Geographic as one of the world’s most beautiful—to the legendary M-22 highway winding past Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, nature comes alive. Gentle 44°F spring breezes welcome back wildlife, while pink and white cherry blossoms paint stunning backdrops for beachcombing, hiking, and cycling. With fewer crowds and peak spring beauty, now is the perfect time to plan your getaway. Are you ready for an unforgettable spring adventure?
Book your stay early at Glen Arbor Bed and Breakfast and Luxury Condos to experience Pure Michigan magic before the summer rush! Our Bed and Breakfast typically opens in early May. Our luxury condos are open year round. This coming season brings exciting news. We will have finished renovating our historic bed and breakfast building. This will complete a
3-million-dollar renovation to the entire property while respecting the historical charm of the original building. All new condos, new bathrooms in the main building, a new suite in the main building, and other landscaping projects. We hope you love it.
Why Spring is Perfect for Glen Arbor
Nestled on the 45th parallel, Glen Arbor experiences a later spring, making April and May the perfect time for outdoor adventures before summer crowds arrive.
Spring brings:
• 13 days of rainfall and occasional snow dustings
• 13.5 hours of daylight for extended exploration
• Comfortable 77% humidity, perfect for photography and hiking
Fewer tourists mean tranquil trails and stunning landscapes bursting with Trilliums, wild leeks, and cherry blossoms in mid-May.
Local favorites reopen, including:
• Good Harbor Grill (April 26) – Perfectly timed with Glen Lake Restaurant Week (April 26–May 4)
• Cottonseed Apparel (April 26) – Showcasing fresh spring collections
• L’Chayim Delicatessen (May 1) – Serving famous bagel sandwiches
The Season Opener Festival (May 20-22) marks spring’s arrival with local specials, while the M-22 Challenge and wine trail discoveries offer unique seasonal experiences.
Hidden Trails and Secret Nature Spots
Beyond the well-known paths, Glen Arbor hidden trails reveal spectacular spring landscapes:
• Kettles Trail (3 miles) – Explore ancient glacial formations
• Treat Farm Trail – A wildflower wonderland with historic farmstead views
• Windy Moraine Trail (1.5 miles) – Offers stunning Glen Lake panoramas
Spring’s snowmelt unveils hidden waterfalls, like Ocqueoc Falls, (about a 3hr drive) to the Lower Peninsula’s largest, and the secluded cascades of Largo Springs.
Wildlife lovers can explore:
• Sleeping Bear Birding Trail – Featuring a smartphone app for bird identification
• Duneside Trail (0.9 miles) – A prime spot for migratory bird watching
• Hidden Lake Trail (1.9 miles) – A peaceful retreat for spotting wildlife.
Local Food Secrets
Glen Arbor’s food scene awakens in spring with local favorites and hidden gems:
• Art’s Tavern – A historic hub serving legendary burgers, whitefish feasts, and jalapeño chicken soup
• Good Harbor Grill – Famous for Crab Cakes Benedict and Greek Hash
• The Mill Glen Arbor – Baking artisan breads with house-milled grains
• The Foothills – Serving Cherry Pancakes and classic Eggs Benedict
Unexplored Parts of Sleeping Bear Dunes
Sleeping Bear Dunes covers 32,557 acres of untouched beauty, revealing secret beaches and scenic overlooks:
• Bay View Trail – A hidden alternative to Empire Bluffs, offering peaceful lake views
• Pyramid Point (1.5 miles) – A challenging hike leading to Manitou Island panoramas
• Tiesma Road Beach & Port Oneida Beach – Secluded shorelines perfect for sunset views
Spring also reveals rare natural wonders, including:
• Hidden freshwater springs nurturing rare Michigan monkey-flowers
• Otter Creek’s seasonal shifting patterns sculpting the landscape
• Bass Lake’s tranquil cedar-lined trails, ideal for wildlife spotting.
Experience Spring Magic in Glen Arbor
Spring in Glen Arbor is a local’s secret, where pristine nature, charming small-town vibes, and delicious food create the ultimate getaway. From hiking ancient dunes to savoring Art’s Tavern comfort food, there’s no better time to explore the untouched beauty of Northern Michigan.