I am planning a trip to this area in mid September and saw on the National,park website that this drive is closing at the end of August. Can the dunes still be accessed or is this only road in to the dunes/trails? I have never been to sleeping bear dunes so know much about how the area is set up. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

When during the park visit do you think is a good time to do the drive? We will be arriving late morning on a Sunday and will be camping at Platte River and heading to Charlevoix the next morning. I'm wondering if this would be a good introduction to the park? My only thought is that we will have already been in the car for 4+ hours this day. I'm wondering if Monday morning would be a better time and add this into our drive to Charlevoix? I've read a few places that suggest Empire Bluff trail as an introduction to the park. We haven't been to the area before so are hoping to enjoy as much as we can!