Pros & cons
PROS
- Panoramic views of both Big and Little Glen Lakes
- Quick, easy stop on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
- Interpretive signage highlights geology and landmarks
CONS
- Limited parking and can feel crowded in peak season
- It’s a short stop with no trail to extend the visit
Overview
Perched on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive (Stop #2), Glen Lake Overlook gives you that classic, high-angle view across Big and Little Glen Lakes, the narrow isthmus and bridge between them, and the surrounding forested hills. It’s the first big "wow" moment on the loop and a fast favorite for road-trippers.
What You’ll See
- Big Glen Lake’s deep blue water contrasted with the shallower, greener Little Glen Lake.
- The bridge at the narrows and the quirky “Alligator’s snout” landform you can spot from this vantage.
- Rolling dunes and wooded ridges that light up with fall color.
Why It’s Worth a Stop
This is the easiest place to grasp the park’s glacial story at a glance—two kettle lakes split by a slim ridge, all carved and shaped by ancient ice. It’s also a breeze to visit: pull over, stroll a few steps, soak in the view, snap your photos, and continue the drive.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning: softer light, fewer cars, and calmer air for glassy lake reflections.
- Late day: pleasant crowds after the daytime rush; note that afternoon light can be harsh if you’re shooting toward the east.
- Weekdays beat weekends in summer and during peak fall color.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for soaring raptors riding thermals, songbirds in the nearby trees, and the occasional deer below. Warm months bring butterflies and dragonflies working the edges.
Planning Notes
Parking is limited and turnover is quick. There’s no trail leaving from this overlook—this is a viewpoint stop. If you want more time out of the car, continue to the next stops on the loop for longer strolls or picnic spots.
Where it is
44.8681, -86.0471Tips for Big Glen Lake Overlook
- 01Arrive early or late for easier parking and better light.
- 02Bring a wide-angle lens to capture both lakes and the narrows.
- 03Look for the “Alligator’s snout” near the bridge between the lakes.
- 04Plan restroom stops elsewhere on the loop; this stop is just a viewpoint.
- 05Keep rolling after this to the next stops for longer breaks and picnicking.
Amenities
Near Big Glen Lake Overlook
All places →All trails →
0.4 mi awayCottonwood TrailShort dune loop with big views and zero shade.Moderate · 1.6 mi · 1 hr
0.5 mi awayDune OverlookQuick stop with sweeping views of sculpted dunesPullout · Parking
0.5 mi awayCovered BridgeQuaint covered gateway to the scenic drive, great photo stopPullout · Parking
1 mi awayThe Dune CenterSmall visitor hub at the base of the Dune ClimbVisitor Center · Store
1 mi awayPark Store (Bookstore)Small park bookstore at the Dune Climb with souvenirs and mapsStore · Restroom
1 mi awayDunes TrailClassic sand slog from the Dune Climb to Lake Michigan’s shoreChallenging · 3.5 mi · 3 hr
1.1 mi awayShauger Hill TrailShaded forest loop with rolling dunes and room to breathe.Easy · 2.4 mi · 1.3 hr
1.1 mi awayWindy Moraine TrailQuiet beech–maple loop with a Glen Lake lookout on a moraineModerate · 1.5 mi · 36 min
