Empire, MI

Empire is a tiny Lake Michigan coastal town that serves as the main gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Located along scenic highway M-22 in Leelanau County, it's about 22 miles from Traverse City and draws visitors heading to the famous dune climbs and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. The town sits where South Bar Lake meets Lake Michigan through a narrow channel, creating a unique lagoon perfect for kayaking between inland and Great Lakes waters.