Most people will tell you that Leelanau means “land of delight” in Ojibwe. As much as we love this idea – and agree with its sentiment – according to the Leelanau Historical Society, that isn’t actually true. They have come to find out through their extensive research that this phrase was most likely coined to attract summer tourists in the early 1900s.
It seems the best guess as to the origins of the name Leelanau can be traced back to a woman named Bamewawqgezhikaquay – which is an Ojibwe name meaning “Woman of the Sound the Stars make Rushing through the Sky”. Her english name was Jane Johnston Schoolcraft and she lived in Michigan her whole life, from 1800-1842. She was the first known American Indian literary writer and poet, and she wrote under the pen-name “Leelinau”.
Her husband suggested Leelanau (under a new spelling) in a list of proposed county names to the Michigan territorial legislature in 1840, and it stuck. Attributing the name to Schoolcraft would make Leelanau the only county named for a Michigan woman. And fitting that this “land of delight” is a tribute to a poet and storyteller, who loved both her Native American and white fur-trader ancestry which shaped so much of the area’s history.
- Summer: From June to August offers warm weather, perfect for boating, hiking, swimming and exploring beaches. Summer also brings the biggest “crowds” – but that’s all relative!
- Fall: From September to October boasts beautiful fall colors and it’s a great time to visit wineries. September can feel like an extension of summer – warm days and a gentle chill at night. October is often chillier, and feels like fall.
- Spring: The cherry and apple orchards are in bloom in May, and it can be a special time to come.
- Winter: The least popular season (and the longest!) in the Leelanau Peninsula for tourism, but it can be a great time to experience a snowy vacation with no crowds. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular outdoor activities.
Yes, dogs are allowed in Sleeping Bear Dunes. But they must be on a leash and under control at all times. You are required to clean up after your pet.
There are certain dune trails and beaches where dogs are not allowed, so it is best to check the park website before you go.