Motel

Dune Climb Inn

4.6 · 152 reviews 7194 S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI 49630, United States

Rustic inn near Sleeping Bear Dunes with cabinlike rooms, BBQ grills, and bike rentals. Perfect for outdoor lovers exploring Empire, MI.

Rustic Charm Outdoor Activities Pet-friendly Family-friendly Bike Rentals
At a glance

Quick stay signals

Six signals to read the stay at a glance.

Wi-Fi Free
Parking Free on-site
Check-in From 15:00
Check-out By 11:00
Pets Allowed
Editorial

Hotel overview

Set on seven wooded acres by the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this motel offers a rustic retreat with cozy, cabinlike rooms featuring shared kitchen facilities. Guests appreciate the blend of outdoor adventures and relaxed comforts, including BBQ grills and bike rentals for exploring the nearby 27-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. The property embodies a laid-back vibe suited for families, pet owners, and nature lovers seeking proximity to the sand dunes and Lake Michigan.

While it does not offer on-site dining, several nearby towns are easily accessible for meals and shopping. The pet-friendly, air-conditioned rooms with some kitchens invite a homey atmosphere, complemented by a welcoming communal area where guests can gather for board games or meals. Reviews note the friendly management and thoughtful extras, although some highlight areas for improvement such as bathroom updates and firmer beds.

Its prime location makes it a gateway for outdoor activities like dune climbing, swimming, and fishing at nearby Glen Lake, and for cultural encounters at historic Glen Haven. The inn balances seclusion with access to local landmarks, offering a memorable base for those who enjoy simple, nature-focused stays.

Stand-out signals

What makes this stay stand out

Three signals that shape how this stay actually feels.

Bike-Friendly Access

Rent bikes on-site and explore the 27-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail just steps away.

Close to Dune Climb

Only a 5-minute ride to the iconic Dune Climb Trail for outdoor exercise and stunning views.

Shared Cooking Spaces

Cabinlike rooms with shared kitchens and BBQ facilities encourage communal meals and relaxed evenings.

Hotel album

A closer look at the resort

Rooms, common spaces and the small details that shape the stay. Click any photo to view larger.

13 photos
Guest reviews

What travelers say

A snapshot of guest ratings and stories behind the stay.

4.6 / 5

152 verified guest reviews

  • 5 74%
  • 4 19%
  • 3 3%
  • 2 1%
  • 1 3%
Cozy Rooms Friendly Service Clean & Quiet Community Spaces Bike Rentals Close to Beach

Casey Crowley.

Stayed 1 month ago

“We had a lovely stay at Dune Climb Inn. The location was perfect for exploring Glen Haven and other nearby attractions. We utilized the well-eqipped community room to prepare and eat food and play games at night. Also enjoyed eating outside at the picnic tables. Very convenient to be able to buy snacks and water using Venmo. We loved being able to walk right out the back door and up to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Very clean, charming, and peaceful place.”

Jeremy Anderson.

Stayed 1 month ago

“Loved it. Our daughter ran her first marathon the weekend we stayed here. The host was very accommodating, and allowed her to come back and take a quick shower after checkout time had passed. Never felt pressured, and every question was answered with a smile. Also, loved the beautifully updated classic motel style! Will come back again, as opposed to Glen Arbor lod”

Woori Song.

Stayed 1 month ago

“Really loved our stay at Dune Climb Inn. Management was very kind, responsive, and gave excellent service/accommodations. It's close enough to nearby towns if you need anything, but secluded enough to enjoy nature. It's by no means a luxury resort or anything, but it's charming and was perfect for what we needed: a cozy stay with our family, close to all the activities in the area, and fun activities for the evening (we couldn't use the fire pit or grills due to the weather, but the inn also provides puzzles and board games!) My only complaint is how uncomfortable the beds were (but if you like firm mattresses, you might not care about that). Despite that though, we'll definitely stay here again if we ever come back.”

Joel Oostdyk.

Stayed 3 month ago

“a winter storm hit the first night and knocked the power out for the trip, but the manager went above and beyond to help take care of us (though he had no control of the circumstances). very cool people. Also am enjoying the number of improvements around the place - good job!”

Lisa Loder.

Stayed 3 month ago

“The reason I didn't give a 5 star is the bathroom sink should be replaced as it is rusted and the shower should be updated. The plate on the floor was broken. Other than that it was a great place to stay. I will definitely stay here again when I visit my aunt and uncle again.”

Benjamin Coffman.

Stayed 3 month ago

“Honestly, you couldn't ask for a nicer spot. We got the 2 bedroom suite with a kitchen and it was honestly super cute. I loved the fireplace, the decor, and the fact that the kitchen was pretty much stocked even when I wanted to make breakfast for myself. We were also literally 5 minutes from both Empire and Glen Arbor, so food, coffee, and shopping were super close. And the Dune Climb/Pierce Stocking Scene Drive were less than a mile from the inn on either side. Had an absolutely excellent time and the room was wonderful.”

Based on verified guest reviews
What’s on site

Amenities and services

Everything available — and what isn’t — across the property.

7included 5not available

Most loved

Free Wi-Fi Free parking Air-conditioned Pet-friendly Kid-friendly Kitchens in some rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Air-conditioned
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kid-friendly
  • Kitchens in some rooms
  • Smoke-free
  • Breakfast
  • Pool
  • Restaurant
  • Airport shuttle
  • Fitness center
Place & surroundings

Location and nearby

Where the hotel sits — and what travelers can reach nearby.

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport Regional airport accessible by a 44-minute car drive.
    44 min
  • Manistee County Blacker Airport Smaller airport reached within roughly 1 hour by car.
    1 hr
  • Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail Non-motorized trail spanning 27 miles nearby for biking and hiking.
    On-site
  • Lake Michigan Large freshwater lake popular for swimming and outdoor fun, a 10-minute bike ride away.
    10 min
  • Dune Climb Famous wide sand dunes with climbing trails and views of Lake Michigan.
    5 min
Practical guide

Stay essentials

Practical details to know before you check in.

Check-in

Starts at 15:00

Check-out

By 11:00

Internet

Complimentary free Wi-Fi throughout

Parking

Free on-site parking available

Smoke-Free

Entire property is smoke-free

Kid-Friendly

Welcomes families with children

Pet Policy

Pets allowed on request

Kitchens

Some rooms have kitchenettes; shared cooking areas available

Questions travelers ask

FAQ

Yes, free parking is provided on-site for guests.

Pets are welcome; it is a pet-friendly property.

Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.

Check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.

Some rooms include kitchens; shared cooking spaces and BBQ grills are also available.

Breakfast is not provided at this motel.

The motel sits on the edge of the National Lakeshore, a short bike ride from the Dune Climb Trail.
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