Lake Michigan Coastal Dunes
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Lake Michigan Coastal Dune Home
Introduction to Lake Michigan Coastal Dunes
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Dunes - Parabolic dunes


Parabolic dunes are crescent-shaped dunes with wings (arms) pointing upwind (lakeward) and the main axis of the dune parallel to the wind direction.

Lake Michigan parabolic dunes are large; some reach heights greater than 60 meters (200 feet) and extend more than 0.5 km (1600 feet) inland.


Aerial photograph of parabolic dunes in Hoffmaster State Park
Active and stabilized parabolic dunes in Hoffmaster State Park. (Photo source: P.J. Hoffmaster State Park).

 

Parabolic dunes develop as blowout dunes which take on the shape and activity of parabolic dunes. Parabolic dunes can be active, migrating across the landscape, or stabilized by vegetation.

Parabolic dunes: next page / return to Hoffmaster dunes

 

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Last updated 03/23/10.