You Could Be Fined Thousands of Dollars at Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes

Even if you're a born and raised Michigander, don't underestimate this particular outdoor adventure. If you do, you could face some hefty fines.

Michigan Outdoor Activities

Michigan is finally starting to warm up. That means that Michiganders are starting to peel off the layers and head into the great outdoors. And, there's no shortage of outdoor fun in Michigan!

While I'm much more of an 'outside' person versus an 'outdoors' person... think spending the day at the beach, taking a hammock nap, and then ending the night making s'mores by the bonfire... Michigan has so much for an outdoorsy person to do: kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, and more.

READ MORE: This Michigan Lake Was Just Named the State’s Prettiest

If you think you're outdoorsy enough to handle one of Michigan's more rigorous outdoor activities, make sure you're prepared to finish what you started. If you can't, you might get slapped with a huge fine.

I'm talking about Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Millions of people—Michiganders and tourists alike—make their way to this Pure Michigan destination. The view of Lake Michigan from the dunes truly can't be beat!

Why Sleeping Bear Dunes Is More Dangerous Than It Looks

However, trekking those dunes is not for the faint of heart. There are plenty of warning signs telling people how difficult of a climb it is. Yet, there are rescues every single year.

There are a few reasons why the dunes are difficult to climb:

• They're VERY steep
• It's about a mile and a half walk trek from bottom to top
• Walking in sand is hard

If you get an injury or become dehydrated, they'll come rescue you, but you'll have to pay.

Getting Rescued from Sleeping Bear Dunes Could Cost You Thousands

While the National Park Service doesn't charge for search and rescue, some local fire departments DO. And that could run you a bill of up to $3,000!

And if you think it can't happen to you, think again. There are about 30 rescues made every year. So wear the right shoes, stretch, hydrate, and make sure you're prepared to hike for a mile and a half in the sand.