Hidden away on Lake Michigan's east coast are the soaring bluffs and lake shore views of the city of Empire. Located on the northwestern tip of Michigan, the outdoor activities are endless in this area including volleyball, basketball, boating, fishing, skiing and hiking. Only 11 mi (18 km) to the south is the 71,000-acre (28,700-ha) national park of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, complete with rolling hills and forests of birch, pine, maple and beech. Take in a fishing excursion in the summer months through charter company or rent a surfboard or kayak. During the winter, both the Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreation Area and Hickory Hills ski areas are less than 30 mi (48 km) away. More relaxed dry land outings include numerous golf courses, shopping areas and cafes in and around the city. To learn of Empire's lumber era, check out the Empire Area Museum or learn of the mariner's life saving services at the Sleeping Bear Point Museum.