Sleeping Bear Surf

Debunking Sharks at Sleeping Bear Surf
2023-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | Sleeping Bear Surf, 10228 W Front St, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
Join us for an enlightening, impromptu evening of awareness and action; from Sharks to our Inland Seas, at Sleeping Bear Surf.

Too often in surf lessons I ask “what dangers or hazards can you identify here in the Great Lakes?”. Often times, the answer includes something like “Well, we don’t have Sharks. Rocks?”.

There is so much to debunk about Great Lakes Water Safety, (check out our Great Lakes Water Safety page on the website & stay tuned for Water Safety events in the future), and there is so much to debunk about our acquired fear of Sharks, for the health of the Oceans, and therefore the health our mighty, tightly woven planet that so very much depends on them.

We have had the incredible honor of hosting Luca, Annabel’s best buddy whose friendship formed during a Shark Conservation Program in Fiji five years ago. Now, Luca is an emerging Marine Biologist, diving into her Masters, and also works for Elasmocean, a German non-profit working to expand human consciousness around the misconceptions, and utmost importance, of Sharks.

We’ll be in the board room at 6:00pm to engage with Luca and learn about Sharks, and the importance of their protections to a thriving ecosystem as well as the incredible features & traits of sharks that will leave you absolutely mind boggled and craving more.

While this will be a formal presentation, there will be ample opportunity for questions and conversation.

Then, for those feeling inspired, we’ll head to the shores of Lake Michigan, join us for a sunset cleanup to get our hands in the sand and help in the protection of the abundant ecosystem right here in our backyard, our Mighty Great Lakes.

~ Images of Luca diving with a Whale Shark just a couple of short weeks ago. ~

Friday on the Wall: A Tradition
2023-09-01 19:00 - 22:30 | Empire Public Beach, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
Nearly every single Friday night for the last, golly, 15 plus years (?) we’ve upheld a wholesome tradition of gathering, nurturing and expanding community next to the lake at the Empire Public Beach.
Join us this Friday at ~7pm onward tailgate style on the wall, to kick off September & our Labor Day Sale weekend, cheers to the season, and to all of you. This community has held us in a pretty darn special way this past year, and we wouldn’t be here without you. Let’s celebrate life, the lake, and gooooood people this Friday and all Fridays to come.
Look for Jenny, our trusty turquoise 1972 Chevy Cheyenne next to the Manning Lighthouse at the Empire Public Beach.
It’s going to be wavy – bring your surfboards, your skateboards, a dish or a drink to pass. This is a casual potluck – if you feel like bringing something to contribute – hetch yeah! Even if you don’t have the time or the means to bring anything but your joyous self, you will be welcomed with wide, open arms!
Come one, come all. See you then. Or maybe next time!

Big, Honkin' Labor Day Sale
2023-09-01 11:00 - 2023-09-04 15:00 | Sleeping Bear Surf, 10228 W Front St, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
Welp, where did summer go?!
The season is coming to a close which means it is time for our annual Near-End of Season Sale!
We have heaps of delicious product with big ol’ slashed price tags to encourage their forever homes to come through this weekend! AND not only are brand spankin’ new swim, apparel, boats, and boards of all sorts on sale, but we have a chunk of our SURF, SUP, and BIKE rental fleet ready to become new to one of you! This is something we’ve prided ourselves in doing since the beginning of SBSK, which allows high quality product to get in the hands of our beloved customers at a more accessible price tag.

We will be OPEN and running dealz Friday 11-7, Saturday 11-7 and Monday 10-3.

Check it out:
~ In Store Sale Friday, Saturday & Monday ~

SLASHED prices on all Soft Goods

40% off all Swim
40% off all Apparel (SBS exclusive goods not included)
30% off ALL Wetsuits and select accessories

Massive Savings on all Hard Goods

20% off all Skate & Skate Accessories
$100 off select Surfcraft with 20% off all Surf Accessories
Up to $250 off all SUPs
Up to $200 off ORU Kayaks

~ MONDAY, Labor Day, RENTAL & LESSON GEAR SALE ~
Limited Availability of all Gear – We’re runnin’ first come first serve action!
Itching to lock in gear before Monday and/or guarantee availability?
-> Make a (non-refundable) deposit or make the full purchase today with pickup Monday morning by calling 231-326-9283(WAVE)!

SUPs

9’2, 10’0 or 10’6 NSP AllRounder
11’6 NSP Elements Cruise
10’6 or 11’6 Surftech Universal Tuflite

Grab the board solo if you have all necessary accoutrements, or get in on a package deal with Paddle, Leash & PFD!

SURFBOARDS

7’0 Surftech L2S Blacktip
8’0 Surftech L2S Blacktip
9’0 Surftech L2S Blacktip
10’0 Surftech L2S Blacktip

BIKES

Yuba Boda Boda and Yuba Mundo Bikes
Framed Fat Tire Bikes (available in various sizes)

Package deals with Helmets and Yuba Accessories available

Thank you for the outpouring of support. Our gratitude overflows.
See you soon!

A Once in a Blue Moon Paddle
2023-08-30 08:00 - 17:00 | MI
A Once in a Blue Moon type of Magic.
The Skrocki Family is taking this once-in-a-blue-moon opportunity to BREATHE together on the water under this month’s 2nd full moon. But you still have the opportunity August 30th to indulge in an extra special night of connection and community on the water; a Full Moon Paddle under the Blue Moon, also a SuperMoon.
What to know:
The sun sets on August 30th at 8:25pm and the moon will begin to rise at 8:40pm – it should be visible at about 9:30pm.
Weather: So far it is looking absolutely beautiful – sunshine and clear skies, with a North/Northeast wind on the big lake, bringing a slightly chilly evening, so bring your fleece!
Location: While we will not be hosting in person tonight, we hope you will take our recommendations and set off on a paddle tonight with some new friends!
Here are two fun options for you!
Paddle A. Point A to B Paddle *grab a buddy or make a friend & drop a car or a bike*: The Lower Platte River
Take your time and indulge in the wildlife that surrounds the river bank this time of night. Put in at El Dorado Boat Launch at 8:40pm, after you’ve watched the sun set and dropped a vehicle) and paddle out to the big lake (~45minutes) guided by lightning bugs. By the time you arrive, the lake should be nice and calm. The moon will be rising to the west (look right!)
Does this sound amazing but you don’t have a car to drop? Make a buddy and get a ride! Make sure to drop your board at El Dorado Park before dropping your vehicle at the end!
Paddle B. Out and Back Paddle: Little Platte Lake DNR Boat Ramp
A beautiful, wildlife packed inland lake that will be nice and protected from the wind. Little Platte is home to many Loons who will likely grant you with song after dark. While you may have a little wind across the lake, it is so teeny weeny tiny, and wonderfully shallow that you should have no problem paddling against the breeze that kisses Little Platte. We recommend launching around 8:45pm and paddling toward the center of the lake to watch the moon rise up over the water around 9:30pm. There’s a fantastic dock that makes for the most perfect moon magic picnic, meditation, or glass o’ vino sippin’ zone too. Mama Beryl, friend Anna, and Ella stayed until the wee hours post-paddle at Little Platte early summer of 2022 soaking in the moon at this special place.

Required to Bring:

Non-motorized watercraft of choice

Board / Boat
Paddle

Life Jacket (per Coast Guard regulation, PFDs must be on the bodies of all kayak & canoe paddlers, and either worn or strapped to all SUPs)
Leash (for all SUPs, prone boards, surfboards)
Light / Lantern to put at the front of your watercraft

and/or Functioning Headlamp

Recommend Bringing:

Drinking water
Swimwear *if you plan to get wet* (we encourage skinny dippin’ but not so much in this group setting)
Fleece and/or neoprene to stay warm (bring an extra cozy fleece for post-paddle)
A buddy! Or two! Or the whole family!
A snack or beverage to pass if you wish to hang around and cheers post-paddle! (We always take our time and bring a snack or bevy to enjoy!)

Paddle under the Sturgeon Moon
2023-07-25 08:00 - 17:00 | MI
Join us JULY 31st for a magical night on the water under the big, bright, full moon ~ a tradition we our proud to continue to hold in honor of the Full Moon Paddle queen herself; our precious Mama Beryl; as she shines down on us from the stars ~
August 1st brings the Sturgeon Moon – named after North America’s largest fish, the sturgeon, and the abundance of Sturgeon here in the Great Lakes!
We will be paddling on Monday, July 31st to take advantage of early evening and an equally spectacular moon rise.
RSVP Now!
What to know:
The sun sets on July 31st at 9:12pm and the moon will begin to rise at 9:06pm
This gives us the perfect opportunity to watch the moon rise as the sun dips below the horizon, leaving us with a beauteous afterglow!
Date: Monday, July 31st
Location: We plan to paddle from the Glen Haven Cannery to Sleeping Bear Point! This will be about a 1.5-2 mile long paddle round trip. If you’d like to shorten your time on the water, meet up with us a half mile up the lakeshore as we pass by the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station (be ready to jump on the water around 9:10pm)!
Time: Be ready to launch from Glen Haven by 8:45pm!
There will be a quick orientation and safety briefing at 8:45pm before we enter the water.

We will be launching no later than 9:00pm so we may paddle toward the sun set and then shoot to arrive to the east edge of Sleeping Bear point as the moon starts to come up over the horizon. Maybe we’ll even climb the dune!

Being that we do like to take our time, we anticipate that this will be an hour & a half long paddle if you choose to stay with the group (which we so appreciate so our heads don’t swirl when we miscount!)
Weather: So far it is looking absolutely beautiful – clear skies and a calm lake, which makes taking advantage of this particular spot SUCH a treat!
What to bring:

Non-motorized watercraft of choice

Board / Boat
Paddle
Life jacket (per Coast Guard regulation, PFDs must be on the bodies of all kayak & canoe paddlers, and either worn or strapped to all SUPs)
Leash (for all SUPs)

Functioning Headlamp
Light / Lantern to put at the front of your watercraft
Drinking water
Swimwear *if you plan to get wet*
Fleece and/or neoprene to stay warm (bring an extra cozy fleece for post-paddle)
A buddy!
A snack or beverage to pass if you wish to hang around at Glen Haven Beach to cheers and cheer under the moon at the conclusion of our paddle.

RSVP Now!

This event is free, and we hope that it always will be. If you would like to support Sleeping Bear Surf and the Skrocki family so they can continue to organize and host events such as these in the name of Beryl, you may do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/barrel-beryl-in-love All donations will be put in a fund that is designed to expand community & accessibility for those itching to jump on a board but may not be financially able.

SuperDuperMoon Paddle
2023-07-03 20:30 - 22:30 | Empire Public Beach, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
Join us July 3rd for a magical night on the water under the big, bright, full moon ~ a tradition we our proud to continue to hold in honor of the Full Moon Paddle queen herself; our precious Mama Beryl; as she shines down on us from the stars ~
July 3rd brings the first SuperMoon of 2023
This SuperMoon is called the Buck SuperMoon named after our “four legged friends” as the antlers of male deer (bucks) are in full-growth mode at this time of the year.

What to know:
The sun sets on July 3rd at 9:34pm and the moon will start to rise at 9:00pm.
This gives us the perfect opportunity to enjoy an hour long paddle to North Bar under the light of dusk before we watch the moon rise over trees; serenaded by the sounds of the lively ecosystem of North Bar Lake. We will be ending our paddle with a toast to the moon and goodies on the dune at North Bar ~ where the tradition began.
Date: Monday, July 3rd
Location: We plan to paddle from the Manning Lighthouse at the north end of the Empire Public Beach 2.5 miles to North Bar Lake. This is the OG full moon paddle route – the section of the lakeshore that brought the full moon paddle tradition to life many many moons ago – a majorly special stretch of coastline.
Time: Be ready to launch from the Lighthouse at the Empire Public Beach by 8:20pm!
There will be a quick orientation and safety briefing at 8:20pm before we enter the water.

We will launch no later than 8:30pm so we may enjoy the full colors of sunset from the arms of Lake Michigan and shoot to arrive to North Bar Lake as the moon makes it’s way over the trees and reflects off of the still water of Lake Michigan at the entrance to North Bar Lake.

Being that we do like to take our time, we anticipate that this will be an hour & a half long paddle.
Important Details (please read): This can be a round trip or a point A to B paddle – the choice is yours!

If you intend to end your paddle at North Bar Lake you will need to drop a vehicle prior to start time. Then we will need to buddy up and carpool, which is such an awesome way to meet new friends! There will be one shop vehicle that can seat ~ 8 people able to cart folks back to Empire, however we anticipate many more than 8 attendants, therefore if you are able to buddy up and drop a vehicle with a friend that would be so grand! If you have room in your vehicle to seat other paddlers, then you get big humongous bonus points! Let’s work together to make sure all are able to participate & to head home post-paddle with ease.

If you are to carpool from North Bar Lake you must first drop your water craft at the Empire Public Beach by the lighthouse (don’t worry – we have grand trust in our community, your gear will be safe 🙂 )
We recommend that you plan to drop your watercraft at the Empire Public Beach around 7:30pm, and then make the ~10 minute drive to North Bar Lake to drop your vehicle. The last ride from Sleeping Bear Surf will be leaving the North Bar Lake parking lot at 8:00pm so that we can get back to the beach, ready our gear, use the restroom if necessary, and be ready for action by 8:20pm. Please take into account the time necessary to pump up boards if you are paddling an inflatable. 🙂

For those who wish for a longer paddle into the dark of night: It is likely that Ella will be making the return paddle to Empire Beach after a toast and some cheer on the dune at North Bar Lake. After our arrival to North Bar Lake we will allow you to let loose and go your own way. We just ask that please, for the sake of safety and Ella’s fragile spirit, pleasey please let Ella or additional organizers know that you are taking off into the night either back to your vehicle, or returning under the moon to Empire Beach before Ella is ready to depart. The returning group, if accompanying Ella, will likely return to Empire Beach by 11:30pm.

Weather: So far it looks like it is going to be clear skies, 80 degrees and calm water. Absolutely perfect. We’re crossing our fingers it stays this way, and we know our Mama will work her magic to ensure it does.
What to bring:

Non-motorized watercraft of choice

Board / Boat
Paddle
Life jacket (per Coast Guard regulation, PFDs must be on the bodies of all kayak & canoe paddlers, and either worn or strapped to all SUPs)
Leash (for all SUPs)

Functioning Headlamp
Light / Lantern to put at the front of your watercraft
Drinking water
Swimwear *if you plan to get wet*
Fleece and/or neoprene to stay warm (bring an extra cozy fleece for post-paddle)
A buddy!
A snack or beverage to pass if you wish to hang around at North Bar Lake to cheers and cheer under the moon at the conclusion of our paddle.

RSVP Now

This event is free, and we hope that it always will be. If you would like to support Sleeping Bear Surf and the Skrocki family so they can continue to organize and host events such as these in the name of Beryl, you may do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/barrel-beryl-in-love

Barrel Beryl in Love - A Grand Celebration of Life
2022-11-05 12:00 - 17:00 | Sleeping Bear Surf, 10228 W Front St, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
She was held and surrounded by such a profound, infinite love from us all. As her final breath filled us, the skies opened, rain fell, and Mother Earth wept too.

Her spirit lives on amidst the elements; zoom-vrooming through the wind, frolicking in the waves, boogying amidst the trees, and spreading her warmth through the flames of an eternal fire. She has brightened the shine of the moon, the sun, and the stars. Her dazzling light will continue to guide us, always.

Join us Saturday, November 5th ~ A day dedicated to the grand celebration of an extraordinary life, and the vibrant, childlike spirit of Beryl Skrocki.

We hope to see you from 12:00 – 5:00pm onward for a full day of remembrance, music, joy, and laughter.
Location: Find us in the heart of Empire, right in front of Sleeping Bear Surf; we are closing off the street between Lake Street and La Rue, where a grand tent will stand in its place.
Sleeping Bear Surf will be open as the Beryl experience, a sanctuary, for you to feel her everlasting presence, impact, and get a glimpse into her extraordinary life, a life walked with love, and joy.

Details:
12:00 – 1:00 Blake Elliott will be serenading us with her beautiful music while we gather, squeeze on the Skrocki family, and take a walk through the Beryl Sanctuary
1:00 – 3:00 Welcome poem by Anne-Marie Oomen followed by Remembrances of Beryl, with music by Zack Peterson transitioning us through speakers
3:00 – 5:00 “Scrumdilyumbo” food by Mel & Fel will be served during which time all will have the opportunity to share a story at the mic, record it verbally, or write it on a memory card for the Skrocki family to cherish.
5:00 Reading of Berylisms by children Ella, Reiss & Annabel & Closing Poem with Norm Wheeler and Anne-Marie Oomen
5:30 Continued Celebration at the Empire Public Beach [Lighthouse] – We will gather at the beach for a sunset cheers with champagne from our friends at Mawby Vineyards. If Lake Michigan allows, there will also most definitely be a plunge for those brave enough to take to a cold, refreshing cleansing. Bring your swimmin’suit!

7:00 Due to the crisp air & forecasted wind, the informal celebration will continue back at the fancy heated tent, where we will encourage music and story to continue if all are feelin’, “mow-down” on Mama’s favorite comfort food, and a big’ bonfire will be blazin’ in the greenspace next to the shop.
In Beryl style, we will keep the party going until we all decide it is time to slumber. She was never one to miss out on a single moment.

There will be snacks, sweets, and a slew of beverages including King Orchards hot cider, “barley pops” by Lake Ann Brewery and famous Friendly Tavern root beer available throughout the day.
Please RSVP to Beryl’s Grand Celebration of Life

Join the family Sunday at 12:00pm for a saunter across the dune in Beryl’s honor. Starting at the Treet Farm, ending at the Empire Bluff Trail (~3 miles roundtrip). One of Beryl’s favorite “expotitions”!

We hope to see you then, to celebrate a woman whose impact is impossible to put into words. We hope this day can help showcase her absolutely unique, high-vibration energy, that lives on so strongly here on Earth.

Freshwater Friday: Movie Night
2022-08-12 19:30 - 22:00, 2022-07-22 19:30 - 22:00 | Sleeping Bear Surf, 10228 W Front St, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
After a two year hiatus, we’re bringing back a classic Sleeping Bear Surf tradition!
Join us for movie night under the MilkyWay, with popcorn too!
Here are the deets:

7:30pm – we’ll be down at the Empire Public Beach Lighthouse for our weekly Friday night gathering on the wall! Bring a dish to pass and a beverage, or just show up! Look for Jenny (our 1972 electric blue Chevy Cheyenne)!
Dash up to the shop post-sunset!
9:00pm – we’ll keep the party going at the shop!
We’ll have the big screen set up in the green space next to the shop. Bring a chair, a blanket, and a buddy!
What’s showing? Expect anything from classic surf flicks to inspiring new surf-based films. We’ll be determining the flick as the date nears and updating here.
The evening will also be dedicated to the wicked-awesome groms who will be completing Junior Waterman Camp the afternoon prior to movie night. Therefore we will have an awards ceremony and camp recap kicking off the night.
P.S.
The streets of Empire are pretty enticing to cruise around on skateboards after dark… 😉

August Full Moon Paddle
2022-08-11 20:00 - 22:00 | MI
Join us for a night on the water under the big, bright, full moon!
While August can be hit or miss in regard to finding flat water on the big lake, the water will be cozy warm which often calls for plunges under the stars. Oh yeah.
RSVP Now
What to know:
The sun sets on August 11th at 8:54pm and the moon will rise at 9:18pm.
An earlier evening paddle that will allow for return to our vehicles closer to 10pm.
Date: Thursday, August 11th
Location: North Bar Lake
Time: Arrive to location at 8:00pm to get your gear ready.

There will be a quick orientation and safety briefing at 8:20pm and we’ll hit the water around 8:30.

While this event relies heavily on the cooperation of the weather, we may choose to reschedule the gathering for one day prior or one day later from the scheduled date to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our participants.
What to bring:

Non-motorized watercraft of choice

Board / Boat
Paddle
Life jacket
Leash (for SUPs)

Working Headlamp
Light to put at the front of your watercraft
Drinking water
Swimwear *if you plan to get wet*
Fleece and/or neoprene to stay warm (bring extra fleece for post-paddle)
A buddy!
A Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park Pass – You may purchase at the Park Headquarters

RSVP Now

June Full Moon Paddle
2022-06-14 21:00 - 22:30 | MI
Join us tomorrow night on the water under the big, bright, full moon!
It’s going to be a late one, and an epic one! June brings the Strawberry Moon, a Supermoon! Prepare for some magic, weather permitting. Seeing the moon rise from the water is a spectacle you don’t want to miss.
What to know:
The sun sets on June 14th at 9:29pm and the moon will rise at 10:22pm.
This gives us the perfect opportunity to enjoy an hour long evening paddle under the light of dusk before we watch the moon rise above the horizon to guide our way home.
Date: Tuesday, June 14th
Location: Little Platte Lake! We will be meeting at the Little Platte Lake DNR Boat Ramp.

Time: Arrive to location at 9:00pm to get your gear ready.

There will be a quick orientation and safety briefing at 9:15pm.
We will intend to launch by 9:30pm

Weather: Clear skies and nearly 80 degrees through 10pm. Perfect.
What to bring:

Non-motorized watercraft of choice

Board / Boat
Paddle
Life jacket
Leash (for SUPs)

Working Headlamp
Light to put at the front of your watercraft
Drinking water
Swimwear *if you plan to get wet*
Fleece and/or neoprene to stay warm (bring extra fleece for post-paddle)
A buddy!

RSVP Now

Surfboard Swap & Board Repair Party
2022-06-04 11:00 - 16:00 | Sleeping Bear Surf, 10228 W Front St, Empire, MI, 49630, United States
We’re kickin’ off the season with an ol’ fashioned surf swap, and board repair party amidst the famous Empire Asparagus Festival! Woot! Free too, duh!

Surf Swap
Finding old boards amidst your spring cleanin’ that you’re itching to ditch? Or searching for a used board to kick off your summer surf love affair? This is an awesome opportunity to bring board(s) you want to sell, or to get your hands on a used board.
For all boards sold at the swap we are encouraging donations to directly benefit the Matt Rieck Scholarship Fund to give an underprivileged grom the opportunity to participate in Jr. Waterman Camp this upcoming July or August. For boards sold over $200 we are suggesting a $20 donation, while board sales under $150 we are suggesting a $10 donation.

Board Repair Party
If your board is busted but not ready to part ways with you yet, bring ‘er over and we will supply repair accoutrements! If you haven’t done your own repair before or just want to make it beauteous this is a great opportunity to get some guidance and ensure your board is water tight for that next session! We will have the ever-talented Otto Bengsch of Bengsch Surfboards joining us to provide his expertise and sharing some tips and tricks for proper board repair.
For all boards brought to the swap or repair party you’ll be granted FREE entry to the Empire Asparagus Festival! Great beer, good music, and deep fried asparagus are all just right next door! It’s going to be a great day to hang on Front Street!

Check out the full Asparagus Festival schedule of events here: https://empirechamber.com/event/asparagus-festival/

Can’t make it Saturday but want to drop your board? No sweat! Give us a call and we’ll set up a time to get your board safely into the shop for Saturday’s swap.

Community Skate Night!
2022-05-28 20:00 - 21:00 | Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail: Glen Haven Trailhead, 5114 Glen Haven Rd, Glen Arbor, 49636
Kickin’ off our first community skate night Saturday, May 28th at 8pm!

We’re pretty fortunate to have one of the most epic flatland/mellow downhill paved trails in Northern Michigan right here in our backyard.
Bring your board, your helmet (highly encouraged), and your good energy and join us on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail for a mellow night on the ‘crete.

Meet us at the Glen Haven Trailhead for the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. We’ll be pushin’ as far as the group pleases, with our goal being to reach the base of the dune (2.1miles), and push on back for sunset!

See you there folks!

P.S.

Remember your park pass!

Earth Day Beach Clean Up
2022-04-22 17:30 - 19:30 | North Bar Lake, 44.8399° N, 86.0635° W, Empire, MI, United States
Join us for an evening of action in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, at North Bar Lake.
While North Bar is one of the most pristine inland lakes in the area, it is also prone to an abundance of trash. North Bar has a fluctuating outlet, and in the past few years it has failed to connect to Lake Michigan entirely, therefore during rough days on the big lake, plastics make their way over the sand into the outlet and trap themselves in the reeds around the inland lake.
As the heart of the lakeshore, North Bar Lake is home to a beautiful, fragile ecosystem – inhabited by various fish species, birds, turtles, and mammals. Plastic pollution is a threat to that vital ecosystem.
Join us at 5:30pm to hear from a Biologist with the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park Service about the importance of the ecosystem within North Bar Lake and stick around to pay tribute by doing a deep clean!
In partnership with the Northern Michigan Surfrider Chapter, FLOW, Friends of Sleeping Bear, Beth Price Photography and supported by Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate, and S’well. We will have heaps of awesome information, inspiration, and connections to make all on April 22nd at North Bar Lake. Come hang and let’s do some spring cleanin’!
What to bring:

A National Park Pass for parking at North Bar Lake parking lot & access to the Park — Can be purchased at the National Park Headquarters in Empire.
Gloves! It may be a bit chilly but also gloves are great cleanup companions! Hand sanitizer will be available on site as well.
Bag or Bucket! Old coffee sacks or plastic bags? A big bucket? Bring it! We will have bags and buckets on hand, but in the case of high attendance yours might be needed!

Where to meet:
The eastern edge of North Bar Lake! Park your vehicle, or your bike, and walk on down to the lake! We will be set up with a tent at the end of the walkway. You can’t miss us!
A sign in sheet, bags and buckets will be at the tent. Arrive by 5:30pm to hear from organizers and a biologist with the National Park!
Remember not to forget your park pass!

BONUS: All participants will receive a coupon for 15% off to Shop Online or In Store at Sleeping Bear Surf!

RSVP to get event updates, to ensure you get don’t miss out on discount codes and more!
Want to participate but can’t make it to North Bar? Share a photo of your backyard cleanup with the hashtag #sbsurfspringclean and we’ll send you the discount code!
