When’s the Best Time to Get Married at Sleeping Bear Dunes?
If you’re dreaming about saying “I do” with your toes in the sand and Lake Michigan doing her best impression of the ocean — Sleeping Bear Dunes is the place. But here’s the big question: when is the best time to actually get married there?
The short answer? It depends on your vibe.
The long answer? Let’s break it down season by season so you can find your perfect fit.
Sleeping Bear during the SPRING (April – Early June)
Vibe: Wildflowers, peaceful trails, and no crowds? Yes please.
Why you might love it:
Spring is seriously underrated here. Things start to green up, the air is fresh, and the beaches are usually quiet. If you want privacy without bundling up like a burrito, this could be your sweet spot.
Things to consider:
Weather can be moody. It might be sunny and 65 one day and 42 and rainy the next (Welcome to Michigan) But if you’re cool with a little unpredictability, you’ll be rewarded with solitude and dreamy colors.
Sleeping Bear during the SUMMER (Mid June – Early September)
Vibe: The full Sleeping Bear dream — golden light, clear water, buzzing beach days.
Why you might love it:
This is peak everything. The trails are open, wild berries are ripe, and you can dip in the lake without your soul leaving your body (If you’ve dipped your toes in that water during months outside of summer, you know exactly what I’m sayin’). A summer wedding here feels straight out of a movie.
Things to consider:
You’re not the only one with this idea. Expect tourists. You’ll need to plan ahead, snag permits early, and maybe consider a weekday or sunrise ceremony (Sunrises at Sleeping Bear will legit knock your socks off) to avoid the crowds. But hey, worth it.
Sleeping Bear during the FALL (Mid September – November)
Vibe: Cozy, colorful, and kind of magical.
Why you might love it:
Fall at Sleeping Bear is next-level pretty. The forests explode with color, the lake gets moody (in a good way-like moodier blues), and everything feels a little more intimate. Plus, way fewer people.
Things to consider:
Days get shorter fast, and it can get chilly. But with the right layers (and maybe a blanket for snuggling), it’s seriously romantic. Michigan weather is unpredictable though, so just keep in mind that it could also be 90 degrees (yes, I’ve shot a September wedding in 90 degree weather before. Good ol’ Michigan).
Sleeping Bear during the WINTER (December – March)
Vibe: Snow globe elopement energy.
Why you might love it:
If you’re dreaming of a snowy, quiet, just-the-two-of-you type of ceremony, this is your season. The dunes covered in snow? Unreal. Icy Epic.
Things to consider:
It’s cold. Like, really cold. Some spots might be closed or hard to access. But if you’re the adventurous type (or have really cute boots), it could be the most unique wedding ever.
PERMITS
Yep — even if it’s just you, your partner, and an officiant, you’ll still need a permit. The good news is it’s a simple process through the National Park Service, and I can totally help walk you through it. Heads up: permits aren’t issued on federal holiday weekends, and big setups (like chairs or arches) aren’t allowed.
Read my blog on how attain a Sleeping Bear Dunes wedding permit here
Final tips from someone who has been there (A lot)
- Go either on a weekday or during sunrise (or both!): Especially in summer and fall. This will help you avoid having tons of people around, watching. No need for a paparazzi.
- Time it right: Sunrise and sunset light at the dunes? Unreal. Try to aim for one or the other. I’ll help you find the best spot based on the sun.
- Layer up: Even summer evenings can get chilly near the lake. Bring a cozy jacket or wrap (bonus: it’ll look cute in photos).
- Have a backup plan: A clear umbrella (I always carry a minimum of three), some hot drinks, or a Plan B location just in case the weather pulls a Michigan move.
A few of my favorite Sleeping Bear Dunes locations
There are so many gems in and around Sleeping Bear, but here are a few places I keep coming back to — and where some of my favorite wedding moments have unfolded: Pierce Stocking Drive, Empire bluff trail, Esch Beach, Treat Farm Trail.
Check out the best Sleeping Bear Dunes spots for the perfect Michigan engagement session
Click here if you’re looking to see an elopement at Sleeping Bear Dunes
If you’re looking for someone who knows the ins and outs of the dunes, has snacks in their backpack (always), and will probably cry behind the camera during your vows — I’m your girl.
©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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