Sleeping Bear Dunes - Platte Plains Trail

Platte Plains has over 15 miles of trails and three main loops to explore. The trail is surrounded primarily by pine-oak-aspen woods, with some open fields and lakes scattered throughout the property. During the summer months, there are an abundance of wildflowers and birds to enjoy.

There are a number a trail routes you can take. Signs are not posted at every intersection so check out the map ahead of time to get a layout of the land. The 4.6 mile Otter Creek Loop takes you through the woods around Otter Creek and Otter Lake. The terrain is relatively flat and easy through this section. The 3.5 mile Bass Lake Loop has similar terrain and passes Bass Lake. The 6.3 mile Lasso Loop has a diversity of terrain and offers access to Lake Michigan and views of the Lake and nearby dunes. The Lasso Loop has the most difficult terrain; a few steep ridges and tight switchbacks can be challenging at times, especially on skis.

The trail is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore and has access to the park's Platte River Campground, as well as several water access sites. Otter Creek, Otter Lake, Bass Lake, and Lake Michigan. Part of the trail follows a 2-track road from Esch Road and Otter Creek. 

The Platte Plains trails can be accessed from several locations: on the gravel road near the end of Esch Road; at the end of Trail’s End Road; Platte River Campground; and in the winter, the trailhead along M-22 is open.