Rare sand pillars formed on Lake Michigan beaches from freezing, wind, and snow, lasting days before melting.

Rare sand pillars, or sand hoodoos, have formed along Lake Michigan’s beaches due to freezing temperatures, snowpack, and strong winds. Frozen moisture binds sand particles into sturdy pillars, while snow compacts the sand and winds over 30 mph erode surrounding dry sand, shaping the structures. Fluctuating lake levels and ice expose new sand layers, enabling deeper formations. Resembling Utah’s rock hoodoos, these delicate sculptures are temporary, lasting only a few days before melting. Popular viewing spots include Pere Marquette Beach and Tiscornia Beach in southwest Michigan.