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The Leelanau Peninsula is a region in the U.S. state of Michigan that juts out from the state's lower peninsula into Lake Michigan. Covering an area of around 347 square miles, it is known for its picturesque landscapes that include hills, forests, orchards, vineyards, and sand dunes.
The peninsula is separated from the mainland by the Grand Traverse Bay to the east and is surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan on the west and north. Its highest point is Whaleback Sand Dune, standing over 400 feet above the lake level.
The Leelanau Peninsula is a popular tourist destination and is renowned for its wineries and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing. The region is also home to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a federally protected park that was voted "Most Beautiful Place in America" by ABC’s Good Morning America viewers in 2011.
On the peninsula, there are several small towns and villages, each offering its own unique attractions. These include Suttons Bay, Leland, Northport, and the county seat, Suttons Bay. The region also has a strong Native American heritage, with a portion of it forming part of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians reservation.
In terms of climate, the Leelanau Peninsula experiences cold, snowy winters and warm, mild summers. The surrounding waters of Lake Michigan provide a moderating effect, making the region ideal for fruit cultivation, particularly cherries and grapes. As such, the peninsula forms part of the Northern Michigan wine region, with over 20 wineries and vineyards.