Yesterday we went to visit the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Park which is located in northwest Michigan on the shore of Lake Michigan. These dunes were apparently left behind when the last glaciers retreated northward. The glaciers carved river valleys into the Great Lakes system and left behind terminal moraines, which usually consist of rocks and sand scoured from the land by the glaciers as they move. These sand dunes are hundreds of feet high and are moved by the wind to the northwest about a foot per year.
If you are inclined, you can climb up the dunes (we left that to younger folks), or you can enjoy the view by driving through the park to the many lookout places. The wind certainly does blow, and you need to have warm clothing even in the summer. The sand does drift and in places covers wooden walks with drifts of sand, so you can get a feel of trying to walk in the stuff. Lots of signs are in place to stay on the walks and not to wander about the dunes. This was generally ignored by many people, who apparently either can't read, or think they are above the rules and regulations.
Sleeping Bear Dune has a lovely Indian tale which tells of a bear swimming with her two cubs across Lake Michigan. Her cubs drown on the way, and when she reaches land, she turns and longingly watches for her cubs. They are returned as two islands, and she is gradually turned into a sand dune. You can easily see the two islands from many vantage points, and the rounded dune where the momma bear sleeps. You can also see the shore of Wisconsin, which is over 50 miles to the west.
There are other places in our country where you can see sand dunes and yet they are spectacular next to Lake Michigan. If you get a chance, visit!!!!!!!
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