up north michigan road trip

Michigan’s Perfect Upper Peninsula Road Trip for 5-Days

• Post last modified: August 20, 2023
• Post category: Itineraries / Michigan / North America / One Week Trips

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is is one of the most purely wild places in the United States. You can drive for miles without seeing another soul. Plus, you can find hidden lakes with no boats, houses, or humans. Also, you can see ospreys and eagles fighting mid-air in a show worthy of National Geographic. And all of this you can do amid stops for ice cream and fresh fish as you make your way through “Gods Country” on this Upper Peninsula road trip. So continue reading to find the perfect itinerary for your Upper Peninsula road trip that will help you find the “pure” part of Pure Michigan.

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This 5-day Michigan itinerary is a one way drive from Sault (pronounced Soo) Ste. Marie to Copper Harbor. However, if you want to make this into a loop you can. Simply leave out Kitch-iti-kipi as you drive the northern shore of the Upper Peninsula and then loop your way back through the south shore on your way back and visit Kitch-iti-kipi on the way back through. Highway 2 is one of my favorite roads in the country. So while there aren’t a lot of stops along the south shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the drive is beautiful.

If you make this into an Upper Peninsula road trip loop, you’re able to start and stop from the same place which is definitely a bonus if you’re planning on flying to this road trip. There are no cheap or easy to access airports in the UP, however Escanaba would probably be your best option. But since most people drive to the UP, we’ll write this 5-day itinerary for our Upper Peninsula road trip as though it is a one way trip.

If you're starting your Upper Peninsula road trip in the lower peninsula, consider spending a day on Mackinac Island before crossing the Mackinac Bridge.

Where to stay in michigan’s upper peninsula.

We’ll provide you with some locations to stay each night that will allow you to be near restaurants and also set you up to do minimal extra driving. However, we’ve visited so many times and stayed in so many different places, we aren’t going to bother giving you exact recommendations. There are plenty of campsites, clean hotels, and cute home rentals in the UP, so we’re confident you can find something perfect for your needs.

One thing to know when making reservations, the Upper Peninsula’s home rentals tend to be targeted to large groups and come with the price tag to match. So if you are looking for a large group, go with a home rental. But if you are looking for a small family or couples vacation, hotels will be your best bet. 

Our links in the U.P. road trip itinerary below will take you to hotels in the area. If you’re interested in home rentals, use the search bar below.

By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

However, also consider camping! The Upper Peninsula has a ton of public land! This means that you’ll find lots of cheap and well maintained campgrounds scattered throughout the peninsula. You can search and make reservations for these campgrounds here .

Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary  

Day 1 – the soo.

Arrive in the UP and make your way to Sault Ste. Marie (aka The Soo). You’re probably driving from somewhere else, so you probably won’t arrive until the afternoon. However, if you do arrive earlier, consider spending some time in St. Ignace in the morning.  

While in The Soo, the one must-do is watching the locks or even riding through them. You can watch the locks operate from shore or you can choose between one of the tour companies that will take you through the locks. This is a really cool experience for the whole family. I loved riding through these locks as a child. You’ll get to experience the world’s largest locking system from within the system! You’ll also get to ride through these locks alongside some of the largest ships to sail the 7 seas, or the 5 Great Lakes, in this case.

Stay overnight in Sault Ste. Marie.

Day 2 – Lake Superior

Drive from Sault Ste. Marie to Whitefish point. Once at Whitefish Point, explore the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum . This is a really cool museum that explores all of the shipwrecks that have occurred on the Great Lakes, mainly Lake Superior. You’ll find that special attention is paid to the mystery of the Edmund Fitzgerald – and yes they play the song a lot. This is a great stop for people interested in unsolved mysteries, scuba diving or boating.

You’ll also find a beautiful lighthouse here that you can climb for an extra fee. The beach along Lake Superior here is a great place to spend some time playing in so very cold waters. This sand beach is a great place for a lakeside picnic lunch.

After lunch, head south to Taquamenon Falls . This is the most popular waterfall in Michigan. Here you’ll find two sets of falls to explore. The upper falls are the biggest set, which is most popular for viewing. However, make sure to take the short drive to the lower falls to get the full effect. At both stops, you’ll find that there are really short hikes to the waterfall viewing points. Also, you’ll find some spots along the hike where you have the opportunity to splash about in the Tahquamenon River. The kids will love this spot if you let them play in the water 🙂  

Stay the night in or around Newberry . Accommodations in this area are limited so you could also stay another night in Sault Ste. Marie. 

Day 3 – Waterfalls and Pictured Rocks

Wake up early and head to Kitch-iti-kipi springs. Kitch-iti-kipi , or Big Springs, is a big clear pool of bright blue water fed by an underground spring. This short detour on your route is really a fun one.  

However, if this is too much of a detour for you to take, consider driving along the lakeshore between Newberry and Munising. Whatever you do, do not take the Seney stretch (Highway 28), which is known by all Michiganders for being the most boring stretch of road in the state. Seriously, it’s so boring and straight that you can land a space shuttle on it.  

Next, head to Munising. Grab lunch at one of the cute local restaurants. If you really want the full UP experience, try a pasty at Muldoon’s. Muldoon’s is considered by many to be the best pasties in the UP.

Afterwards, mix together some waterfall watching and the vistas of Pictured Rocks as you explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore .  

First, stop at Munising Falls. This short walk will take you in to the woods to see this beautiful waterfalls. Take in the vistas from the upper and lower viewing decks.

Next, Head to Miners Falls. Here, you’ll walk just short of 1 mile to see this waterfall in the woods. The upper viewing deck doesn’t give the best views. However, pretty much everyone there seems to jump off the viewing deck and scramble down to the river to take in the views from the bottom of the falls. This is not an official path, it is hard to climb back up, and you probably shouldn’t be there since, again, it’s not an official path. But that being said, the view from the upper deck really isn’t great (NPS, please make a lower deck viewing area so us rule followers can get a better view).

Pictured Rocks

Next, go to Miners Castle. This is the most picturesque of the rock formations along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.   Plus, t his stop takes just a few short minutes to hop out and see the Upper Outlook, which is the best view of Miners Castle.

If you would like to then walk to the Lower Outlook, it will take about 30 minutes. This outlook will give you the view of Lake Superior from behind Miners Castle.  

Finish out your trip into Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with a stop at Miners beach. This is one of the best beaches on Lake Superior and is a great place to dip you toes into the freezing waters. Or if you’re brave (or a small cold-resistant child) consider spending a bit of time here doing some actual swimming.  

After exploring Pictured Rocks by land, you’ll definitely want to explore them via water. This is one of the best ways to see the beautiful cliffs. You can chose to take either a boat tour or a kayak tour. My favorite tour is the glass bottom boat that operates out of Munising . You can see the cliffs up close and get to see some cool shipwrecks in the harbor as well. They also have sunset cruises if you’d like to take an evening journey, it’s one of the best tours out there. You should plan on dedicating 3-4 hours to this. This is also one of the few things you should book in advance. Tours often sell out, especially the sunset cruises and weekend tours.

Have diner in Munising. We like Pictured Rocks Pizza! Stay overnight in or around Munising.

Day 4 – Marquette

Head to Marquette in the morning. On your way there stop to drive or walk through the Lakenenland . This self proclaimed Junkyard Art park is home to some pretty cool outdoor sculpture. Even better for the kiddos, several of these sculptures allow you to play on them.  

Arrive in Marquette and explore one of the few large towns that the Upper Peninsula has to offer.  

Make sure to head to Presque Isle Park, one of the gems of town. Also, consider hiking to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for some great views.  

If you’re natured out by this point in your trip, consider exploring the small downtown area and doing some beer tastings at the breweries.  

Leave Marquette in the late afternoon and make your way to Houghton. As you head to Houghton, make sure to stop at Da Yoopers Tourist Trap . It ridiculously touristy and doesn’t even pretend to be anything else. But there is something so incredibly UP about it and it will give you some insight into all the little Yooper jokes. This is just some plain ole’ dumb fun to be had.

Stay overnight in Houghton.  

Day 5 – The Keewanaw Peninsula

Have breakfast in Houghton at Soumi’s Cafe. This is a great place for a hearty traditional Finnish-style breakfast to fill you up for your adventures.  

Drive up to Copper Harbor in the morning. Explore the northern most point of Michigan and some of the best natural spaces in the state. We love driving from Eagle Harbor to Copper Harbor and stopping at all the roadside parks along the way. This will give you a really wonderful taste of the Keewanaw Peninsula and everything that it has to offer.  

Head deep into the heart of Copper country with a visit to the Quincy Mine . This is a winner for the kiddos! Delve into the remains of an actual mine and explore the history of mining in the Keewanaw. You’ll learn firsthand what it was like to work in the copper mines and even get to be outfitted in a cool hard hat!

Head back to Houghton for lunch. Consider pizza at the Ambassador. PS: I like to think our food recommendations for Houghton are particularly on point as they’re coming from a Michigan Tech alumni.  

After lunch, explore Houghton. Wander downtown and explore the campus of Michigan Technical College. Make sure you stop at the Mineral Museum on campus. It’s one of the best rock museums out there with really cool specimens from around the world.  

Grab dinner at Joey’s for some of the best fish and chips on the planet and don’t forget to stop for a drink at the Keweenaw Brewing Company.  

Want to Adjust the Upper Peninsula Itinerary

If you have extra time, consider spending an extra day exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. One of the best hikes in the UP has been excluded from this Upper Peninsula road trip itinerary for the sake of time. However, if you have extra time, spend it completing in the Chapel Basin Loop hike, which will allow you to see Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach. Spend your extra time in Munising exploring some additional waterfalls. Like Alger Falls and more!

If you have even more time or want to create an Upper Peninsula road trip itinerary of your own, check out our list of things to do in the UP here.

We hope this Upper Peninsula road trip itinerary has helped you to plan your own Michigan vacation . We’ve spent so much time in the UP, we really love sharing it with you. So if you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section and we’d be happy to answer them with our years of UP knowledge.

This Post Has 2 Comments

Thanks for the outline for a 5 day tour of the UP MI. I was trying to get information on places to stay but the links didn’t work. When planning, I was overwhelmed by the great options but your 5 day trip nearly hit all the main stops I had hoped to make. From Michigan myself, but living in CA, I have very limited experience with the UP. Debating the Sault St Marie and looking to maybe hike Porcupine Mt area. Any suggestions you have on that would be great. Places to stay or how to activate link would be appreciated. Thanks, Frank

Hi Frank! Thanks for reaching out and letting me know. I did reactivate all of those links. We wrote this UP road trip up as a though you’re driving from the Lower Peninsula (as that’s where a majority of people come from). So we didn’t include the Porcupine Mt area for timings sake. However, if you are coming from Wisconsin, or flying directly into the UP, the Porcupine Mts are definitely better in our opinion. However, we are adults with no kids. I think kids will generally prefer the Soo, due to the big boats, I know I did when I was a kid. I hope this helps you decide!

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A Perfect Northern Michigan Road Trip

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on Published: June 23, 2023  - Last updated: June 25, 2023

Join me on an unforgettable Northern Michigan road trip that will convert you into a die-hard Michigan fan. Our journey will take us to the Cherry Capital of the World , a secluded haven steeped in American history, charming Mushroom houses, thrilling ghost encounters, and breathtaking vistas.

I’m excited to share my adventures with you, providing a detailed itinerary you can follow in my footsteps and discover the wonders of this enchanting region for yourself. Get ready to be captivated by Northern Michigan’s beauty and charm!

Day 1: Arrive in Northern Michigan and See Mackinac Island

Are you ready for an adventure in Northern Michigan? Let’s start by flying into Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport, the closest and most affordable airport option. From there, hop in your car and drive 2 1/2 hours to Mackinaw City. Don’t worry about parking; head over to Shepler’s Ferry where you can bring your luggage with you for the ride.

If you haven’t experienced ferrying across with your car and luggage, it’s a breeze. The friendly ferry attendants will direct you to the right spot to park your car and tag your bags if you’re heading to a hotel on Mackinac Island. They’ll take care of delivering your bags to your indicated hotel while you buy your ferry ticket and wait for your boarding time.

Sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery during the twenty-minute ride. Then, it’s time to do some retail therapy by browsing the charming boutiques along Mackinac Island’s front street, sample world-renowned fudge from Ryba , and capture beautiful photos.

Mackinac is the fudge capital of the world!

The only modes of transportation on the island are walking, biking, or taking a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a different way of life here, and one you have to experience to understand.

Don’t miss visiting the iconic Doud’s Market, a family-owned grocery store that has been a staple since 1884.

While you’re on Mackinac Island, treat yourself to a private island tour provided by Jack’s Livery Stable , where you can learn about the island’s fascinating history and hear local stories. By the way, both Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island are pronounced as Mac-kin-aw.

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island

Discover two exceptional places to stay on Mackinac Island, perfect for a luxurious getaway. The famous Grand Hotel has hosted five US Presidents, been featured in movies, and boasts a picturesque porch — the longest in the nation. It reminds me a lot of the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia, but not as many amenities.

For an equally stunning experience, stay at Mission Point Resort . This elegant property offers breathtaking waterfront views, elegant restaurants, and a rich history.

I stayed at Mission Point Resort, so I know a lot more about it. The rooms were spacious and luxurious, and the entire resort was laid out in a nice fashion. Views of the waterfront from my room were exceptional. I especially loved the spa and restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience at Mission Point Resort’s Chianti restaurant. Delight in the antipasti, Fettuccine a la Carbonara, and baby gem lettuce salad, all of which receive a 10/10 for food quality, taste, and service.

If you’re still not ready to conclude your evening in North Michigan, head to the Pink Pony for cocktails and music. It’s a local favorite and the perfect way to end a day in paradise.

Day 2: Sightseeing Mackinac Island and Heading to Petoskey

Don’t miss out on an unforgettable visit to historic Fort Mackinac during your travels in Mackinac! This military outpost served as barracks for soldiers for many years and is the oldest building in Michigan. Costumed interpreters will transport you back to life at Fort Mackinac circa 1780, which was the first National Park in the National Park System and is now a state park.

Fort Mackinac’s charming cottages, bungalows, and New England style town make for the perfect photo backdrop to remember your trip here.

I highly recommend enjoying lunch at the delightful Fort Mackinac Tea Room , located on the Terrace of Fort Mackinac. Although it is managed and owned by The Grand Hotel, the amazing views and delicious food make it well worth a visit.

When it’s time to leave, catch the 1 PM ferry off the island, which gives you plenty of time to see all the incredible artwork, galleries, outdoor paintings, and sculptures that Mackinac has to offer.

Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking blooms from Mackinac’s incredible flower scene!

Exploring Adorable Petoskey

The Terrace Inn is a 100+ year-old hotel boasting 38 cozy cottage rooms with private baths and a delicious complimentary breakfast. Plus, its bay views, interesting nooks, and crannies, and lovely onsite restaurant make it the perfect place for your next getaway.

The drive to get there will take you about 45 minutes.

FYI : The Terrace Inn has a ghost, which touched my foot as I laid across the bed. If that sort of thing freaks you out, this may not be the property for you.  

In Petosky, you’ll find an array of local shops, the Crooked Tree Arts Center, and plenty of tastings to tickle your fancy. Sip a beer flight at Beards Brewery, enjoy a cup of coffee at North Perk Coffee, or indulge in a tasting at Gypsy Vodka.

If wine is more your thing, check out Petoskey Farms Vineyards. Or, like me, try something unique with a handcrafted soda flight at Roast & Toast .

While in Petoskey, be sure to stop by the many charming shops to pick up souvenirs and gourmet foods. Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts , North Goods, and Threads are all great options. And don’t forget to look out for native Petoskey stones!

These flat, smooth stones with circle-like designs (easier to spot when wet) can be found at Magnus Park, Bayfront Park, and Petoskey State Park . Brave the chilly waters for a chance to find your own, or purchase one as a reminder of your trip.

Fun Fact: Ernest Hemingway loved this area and featured it and North Michigan in many of his books.

Dinner and Evening Activity in Petoskey

Discover the best dinner spot in Petoskey! Indulge in oak-planked whitefish, a local Northern Michigan favorite, at Stafford’s Pier Restaurant . It’s a light and beautifully presented dish that will satisfy your taste buds. And don’t forget to leave room for their irresistible Cherry Praline Profiteroles for dessert.

After dinner, explore the wealth and luxury of Petoskey’s waterfront homes with a pontoon boat tour from Pointer Boat . It’s a unique and fun way to see the breathtaking sights. And before you end your night, enjoy a soothing nightcap at the Terrace Inn.

Depending on the time of year, remember to bundle up, as Petoskey is in the snow belt and gets tons of snow!

Day 3: Arriving in Charlevoix and Scenic Driving 

Looking for a fun adventure on your Northern Michigan road trip? On day three, kick off your day with a delicious buffet-style breakfast (the potato casserole is the bomb!) at the Terrace Inn before heading out to explore the darling towns of Charlevoix and Traverse City.

Charlevoix (char-la-voy) is a charming seaside French-sounding town just 30 minutes away from Petoskey. Take a break along the way at the Horton Bay General Store for antiques, a tavern, and a tempting restaurant.

Across the street, the Red Fox Inn bookstore offers souvenirs, clothing, and other unique items.

The real highlight of Charlevoix, for me anyway, is the Earl Young Mushroom House Tour . Book a tour at Elements Gallery and hop into a GEM car to explore the whimsical mushroom houses designed by local artist Earl Young.

These quirky gnome-like houses, 26 in total, will catch your eye with their stonemasonry walls featuring wavy eaves and unmistakable chimneys and roofs. Some of these distinctive houses are available to rent, and the hour-long tour is sure to be a favorite memory of your trip. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience!

Charlevoix: A Beautiful Small Town

You’ll discover Charlevoix, a picturesque waterfront town situated on not one, not two, but four stunning bodies of water – Lake Michigan, Round River, Charlevoix River, and Pine River. This idyllic destination is a paradise for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts.

Stroll through the town’s charming streets and you’ll encounter cute cafes, souvenir shops, clothing stores, art galleries, and even a killer taffy shop (I sampled way too many flavors!). The hanging flower baskets add a lovely touch to the already captivating scenery.

Deciding how to spend your afternoon in Charlevoix can be a delightful dilemma. You might want to explore more of the downtown area’s shopping and attractions or take a drive to a fantastic waterfront dining spot across town.

At The Cantina: Tacos & Tequila , indulge in incredible Queso Dip and Tacos complemented by a cold margarita.

Alternatively, make your way to The Landing for mouth-watering burgers, fish & chips, and PB&J Sweet Potato Fries. This cool spot boasts excellent waterfront seating and fantastic service.

Either way, your time in Charlevoix promises to be unforgettable.

Day 3: Next Up…Traverse City

After exploring the charming town of Charlevoix, head south to Traverse City, famously known as the Cherry Capital of the World —a mere hour away. Stay at Hotel Indigo for stylish and comfortable accommodations.

Want to experience a taste of Italy? Drive to Mari Vineyards , where you can enjoy a fantastic wine tasting or private tour. Take a picture at the Game-of-Thrones-ish door in the basement and try the Proefectus Red and Scriptorium Riesling.

In Traverse City, Clinch Park is the perfect place for shopping, dining, and water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Check out the State Theatre Bijou by the Bay to watch classic and indie films in a stunning historical movie theater. Don’t forget the nearly 20 golf courses, six distilleries, and 20 breweries for more fun.

Before dinner, snap some photos at the Mission Point Lighthouse , and then head to PepeNero Ristorante for a toothsome meal of your favorite Italian dish or Mediterranean delight. My friends in the area absolutely love this one and say the meals never disappoint.

I ate at Mission Table on my perfect road trip to North Michigan, but it is now an event space only.

End your adventure back at Hotel Indigo, where you can rest up for your final day on the road trip.

Day 4: A National Park, Leelanau, and Glen Arbor 

After grabbing a quick breakfast, make your way to the Leelanau Peninsula, one of Michigan’s best-hidden gems. Start at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire, Michigan. With 35-miles of shoreline and towering dunes, it’s an incredible sight to see.

Be warned, climbing down the dunes to reach the water and back up can be challenging for even the most avid hikers. Some have to be airlifted at a fee from the 450-foot drop. However, if you’re up for the challenge, the view is truly breathtaking.

Next, head over to Glen Arbor’s Cherry Republic Great Hall mega-store, also known as the Cherry Capital of the World. Here, you’ll find cherry-flavored everything, from salsa to candies to jam and chocolate. Don’t forget to try the cherry wine tasting too.

Before you leave, take a browse through the nearby Cottage Book Shop for souvenirs and grab a delicious coffee from Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company . I found an amazing selection of national park posters and day planners at Cottage Books. This is my kinda independent book store!

Fishtown: Unexpected Find on the Northern Michigan Road Trip

Explore Fishtown, a charming commercial fishing village on Lake Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula that’s been preserved for over 150 years. Known for its historic 19th-century shanties, locals saved Fishtown from destruction 11 years ago.

Today, it’s a must-visit destination for shopping, dining, and snapping stunning photos.

Don’t miss out on the Village Cheese Shanty and their famous sandwiches. You can place your order at their tiny shop’s menu board and enjoy your meal outside once it’s ready- no need to wait indoors!

Try the Third Coast sandwich with chicken breast, German mustard, and Maytag Bleu cheese on a pretzel bun – it’s simply delicious!

Leland and Lake Leelanau boast numerous fun shops, including Leland Gal , Tug Stuff, Two Fish , The Fish Hook, and Leelanau Books. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several wineries and distilleries in the area ready to be explored.

Don’t miss out on this quaint and historic gem on Michigan’s coast!

Michigan, I Love You!

I fell in love with Northern Michigan during my road trip and I am so excited to share the highlights with you! From the breathtaking landscapes to the one-of-a-kind attractions, this region has it all. If you’re looking for a special trip in the future, I highly recommend adding Northern Michigan to your list.

Thanks to Pure Michigan for hosting my travels. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.

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Susan Veness

Saturday 20th of July 2019

Wonderful piece, and a real trip down memory lane for me! Lived in Michigan for 48 glorious summers and bone-chilling winters (summers are easy; winters, you just survive), and your journey took me to all the places I know so well. You hit the real highlights (Mackinaw Island and Petoskey are a must). It also reminded me I've got a bottle of cherry wine in my wine rack that's probably a decade old, so I'm guessing it's cherry vinegar by now. If you ever get the chance to visit Mackinaw Island in the winter (arrival by the world's shortest flight), jump at it. It's a completely different world, and a true winter wonderland.

MelodyPittman

The winter wonderland sounds really fun! I heard lots of stories about the extreme temps and those that stay year round. They are troupers. LOL Thanks so much for reading and your sweet comment. I love a good road trip. ;)

An Epic Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip: 12 Stops You Have to Make in 2024!

Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure while driving this unforgettable Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip route!

From spectacular waterfalls to dense forests and crystal-clear lakes, there’s something fun to discover around every corner.

We took a similar route around the UP on our fall road trip up north. We were so pleasantly surprised by the beautiful hiking and waterfall opportunities!

We’ve modified our route just a little bit because after doing the drive ourselves, we think this one gets you the best bang for your buck!

Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary

Begin in Mackinaw City

We recommend beginning your trip in Mackinaw City, the perfect jumping-off point for exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. However, if you’re coming from other areas through Minnesota or Wisconsin, you can hop on this route any point!

Before you head off into the UP, spend some time strolling along the waterfront in Mackinaw City, visiting historic sites such as Fort Michilimackinac, or catching a ride on the Star Line Ferry for stunning views of Mackinac Bridge and Mackinac Island.

Mackinaw City is a great place to stay if you want to get an early start across the stunning Mackinac Bridge heading towards our first stop in the Upper Peninsula, Sault Ste. Marie, MI.

After spending some time in town, hop in your car and start your road trip through the UP !

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie is a charming little city located in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula.

The drive from Mackinaw City is nearly 60 miles and usually takes about one hour.

As the oldest settlement in the state, Sault Ste. Marie is full of history and culture that will have you captivated from the moment you arrive. It’s also the second largest city in the UP, behind only Marquette.

Make sure to take some time to explore downtown and its unique shops, restaurants, and galleries.

You’ll also want to check out the Soo Locks Visitor Center , where you can get an close-up view of the Soo Locks and St. Marys River. Learn about how the locks work to enable transport through the Great Lakes.

If you time your visit right, you can see the locks fully functioning to help ships pass between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

This is the closest that you’ll come to the Canadian border on this road trip, and you can cross the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge (with your passport in hand, of course) to end up in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Make sure when you’re setting up your navigation that you’re destination is the Michigan city and not the Canadian one!

Book a stay in this historic home in downtown Sault Ste. Marie , where you can walk to plenty of restaurants and shops!

Spend a day or two exploring the city, absorbing its history, and learning about trade across the Great Lakes region.

Whitefish Point

The next stop on our Upper Peninsula Road Trip in Michigan is Whitefish Point, about 75 miles or 1 hour and 15 minutes from Sault Ste. Marie.

With its breathtaking views of Lake Superior, it’s no wonder why this gorgeous spot has become a popular tourist destination in recent years.

Spend your day exploring the shipwrecks and lighthouses that dot the shoreline, take a leisurely hike through the surrounding woods, or just kick back and relax as you watch the powerful Lake Superior waves crash against the shore on the beach.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is a must-visit spot when you’re in Whitefish Point. There are multiple buildings to explore, with artifacts displayed from various shipwrecks. Lake Superior preserves these artifacts so well because the temperatures remain pretty cold throughout the year.

Stay in a gorgeous cabin with views of Lake Superior. If you can snag a stay at this cabin , you’ll have beach access directly from the cabin.

✅ Click here to check the availability of the Lake Superior Cabin near Whitefish Point.

Whatever you choose to do here, one thing is certain – Whitefish Point is a great stop!

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls is our next road trip stop, and it’s one of Michigan’s most popular natural attractions. It’s only about 30 minutes from Whitefish point!

Tucked away on the eastern side of the Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to two spectacular waterfalls – the Upper and Lower Falls – that are surrounded by a peaceful forest and rolling hills. This is where you’ll find Michigan’s “Root Beer Falls”!

The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, with a single drop of around 50 feet and a width of 200 feet, dumping up to 50,000 gallons of water per second during the spring snowmelt.

Visitors can take in the breathtaking sight from an elevated boardwalk or choose to explore further by hiking along one of the trails in the area.

Stay the night in one of the campsites scattered throughout the park . There is a wide range of campsites with different amenities from basic rustic sites to ones with electric and water hookups for convenience.

You can’t take a road trip around the UP without stopping to explore Tahquamenon Falls for a day. It was hard for us to choose a favorite stop along our UP road trip, but this was certainly up there on the list.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Next on our Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip route, we’re going to travel from Tahquamenon Falls to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Pictured Rocks is one of Michigan’s most beautiful and breathtaking sites, only 85 miles from Tahquamenon Falls State Park. You should be able to reach most areas in the national lakeshore in 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Spanning over 70,000 acres of land that backs up to the stunningly blue Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks offers a variety of activities for you to explore while you visit.

Along the coast, you can find several trails to explore with views of cliffs, waterfalls, sand dunes, and forests. We’d recommend hiking the Chapel Loop if you’re up for it. It’s a longer hike, but you’ll see some of the best scenery along the way. It was a little busy, but one of our favorite hikes in the UP.

Grand Sable Dunes is a fun spot to explore on the opposite side of the lakeshore, where you’ll see giant heaping sand dunes instead of the rugged, colorful cliffs. It’s a great change of pace just a short distance away. We visited a little early in the morning, but only ran into one other group at the dunes.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, take a boat tour of Pictured Rocks and enjoy the sights from the water – you’ll see Lovers Leap, Indian Head, Miners Castle, Chapel Rock, and more! The cruise is leisurely, the tour guides tell some corny jokes, and the views are spectacular.

We enjoyed staying at the Holiday Inn Express just a couple of miles outside of the town of Munising. It is perched up high on a cliff with views of the bay below. You can enjoy the sunrise from your own little balcony while you sip your cup of morning coffee.

✅ Check availability at the Holiday Inn Express with a Lake View, Munising.

Whether you’re looking for some outdoor fun or just want to appreciate nature’s beauty at its finest, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a stop you should not skip on your Upper Peninsula itinerary.

To get the most out of the lakeshore and have time to see more than one or two spots, we’d recommend at least 2-3 days in Pictured Rocks .

Marquette, Michigan is a charming iron-industry port and college town nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, about 45 minutes from Munising. You’ll only have to drive about 45 miles for this leg of the trip!

With its quaint downtown streets, breathtaking views of Lake Superior, and home to Northern Michigan University, this vibrant little city is bustling with so much energy. Whether you’re looking for history and culture or even more outdoor adventures, you can find all these things around Marquette.

In the summertime, explore some of the many trails found in the area — from Presque Isle Park’s world-class mountain biking to Lake Superior’s rugged coastline — and take in the beautiful views. You can really get your heart pumping by jumping off the black rock cliffs!

And if you thought that the waterfalls around Pictured Rocks were the only ones in the UP, you’ll be surprised by the beautiful sights around Marquette!

If you’d prefer to stay indoors and enjoy mouthwatering food, visit Lagniappes for delicious New Orleans Cajun grub. I know, I know. Cajun creole in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan? It really is that good, though! After your meal, check out Blackrocks or Drifa Brewery — they both have a fun relaxed atmosphere and great varieties of craft brews to try.

Get a room at the Staybridge Suites in Marquette for the night. The rooms are large and suite-style, so you’ll have enough room to organize all of your luggage and gear for the next leg of adventures.

➡️ Click Here to Reserve a Room at the Staybridge Suites Marquette.

The Keweenaw Peninsula: Houghton and Copper Harbor

The Keweenaw Peninsula is one of the most unique and beautiful places in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The towns of Houghton and Copper Harbor are two of the most popular destinations for a road trip through this region — and with good reason. The peninsula was booming with copper mines in the early 1900s.

This is one of the longer legs of the trip, taking about 3 hours to reach Copper Harbor on the northernmost part of the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Houghton is known for its quaint downtown, which has a variety of delightful shops and delicious restaurants. There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene, with live bands, bars, and breweries to explore.

Meanwhile, Copper Harbor is ideal for outdoor adventurers who love nature. Here, you’ll find breathtaking hikes along the rugged coastline, kayaking trips among rocky islands, and mountain biking trails through lush forests.

Head up the Brockway Mountain Drive, and at the top, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the many lakes and waterways below, as well as stunning foliage in the fall. Brockway Mountain is located just a few minutes west of Copper Harbor.

Take a Side Trip to Isle Royale National Park

While you can’t actually road trip to Isle Royale National Park because it is in the middle of Lake Superior, this island is the only National Park in Michigan . The only way to get there is to board a ferry or seaplane for a ride unless you can find a private boat transport. 

The seaplanes depart from the seaplane dock in Houghton, or you can board a ferry in either town.

There are no cars on Isle Royale, so you’ll park your vehicle wherever you depart for the island.

Once you reach the island, some of the things to do in Isle Royale include day hiking around Rock Harbor or setting out on a backpacking trip exploring Isle Royale . The length of this stop really depends on your interests.

The only indoor place to stay in the park is at the Rock Harbor Lodge. If you want to spend the night in the lodge, make sure you get your reservations far in advance. The rooms do book up early.

Taking a trip to Isle Royale National Park is certainly worth doing while on your Upper Peninsula road trip if you have the time.

We’d recommend at least staying overnight on Isle Royale, since most people take the long ferry ride. We loved our seaplane trip out to the island, though!

If you don’t make it out to the island, at least be sure to stop at the park visitor center in Houghton to learn a little bit more about the park as you’re passing through.

Porcupine Mountains

We’ve finally made it all the way west! Located in Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula, Porcupine Mountains (aka the Porkies) is a breathtaking state park that’s home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the area and even the state.

The 75-mile drive from Houghton usually takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but it can vary based on what part of “the Porkies” you’re heading to. 

From sweeping views to miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, this park offers some more of the best trails in the UP. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is the largest state park in all of Michigan, not just the UP!

The highlight of a visit to “the Porkies”  is undoubtedly Lake of the Clouds, which offers stunning panoramic views. Make sure you take time to explore this overlook and snap some photos!

If you enjoy the adventure to view Lake of the Clouds, there are over 90 miles of winding hiking trails to explore within the park, including some challenging treks through steep terrain and thick forests.

➡️ Book this adorable little cabin to spend the night near Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park!

No matter what type of outdoor experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it at the Porcupine Mountains. This is a must-visit stop on your Upper Peninsula road trip, and we’d recommend planning to visit for at least 2-3 days if you like to hike and camp.

Crystal Falls State Forest Area

Now, we’re going to head south, back towards Lake Michigan. Before reaching the lake, stop to explore the Crystal Falls State Forest. This area is about 130 miles from Porcupine Mountains State Park, so you’ll be driving for around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Crystal Falls State Forest Area offers a unique opportunity to explore the untouched natural beauty in Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. There are lakes and rivers galore and miles of winding hiking trails exploring the area.

You may find this area to be less touristy and disturbed than the likes of Pictured Rocks to the north.

This area is a sportsman’s delight with fishing access at every turn. 

Even if you’re tired of all the hiking and outdoor adventure, spend a day or two at a private waterfront cabin near town . Many of the cabins around the area are secluded and have water access or at least water views.

✅ Click here to book a waterfront cabin near Crystal Falls, MI.

So if you’re passing through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on your road trip, make sure to add Crystal Falls State Forest Area to your itinerary! It’s often passed by, but Crystal Falls is a great retreat.

Kitch-Iti-Kipi Springs

Nearing the end of the road trip itinerary, head about 125 miles east. Just north of the town of Manistique, tucked away in Palms Book State Park, is the mystical spring Kitch-iti-kipi .

The southernmost route, which takes you extremely close to Lake Michigan in spots, typically takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive.

Kitch-Iti-Kipi Springs is a must-see destination on a road trip through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This natural wonder is one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in the UP. This crystal clear turquoise blue water that remains a cool 45 degrees year-round is tucked away in a pine tree forest.

It’s hard to beat the breathtaking beauty of Kitch-Iti-Kipi Springs.

This 40-foot-deep spring is an Instagrammer’s dream! The raft, powered by a large hand-turned wheel, travels a short distance across to the middle of the glassy surface, and you’ll find fish and underwater trees just beneath the surface.

Visiting the spring is typically a quick stop, but there are picnic tables and restroom facilities available near the parking lot. This would be a great spot to explore and then stay for lunch.

If you have some extra time, head back south, where you can explore the large inland Indian Lake and Indian Lake State Park, right outside of the town of Manistique to the west.

After you are finished exploring Kitch-iti-kipi, spend the night in a small cabin with lake views in Manistique . It’s a great place to recharge for the last leg of your road trip. 

➡️ Click here to book a cabin in Manistique for the night.

Return to St. Ignace

The drive to return to St. Ignace is absolutely stunning! At times, the road comes so close to Lake Michigan that it will feel like the waves are going to come up over your car!

The 85-mile drive between Manistique and St. Ignace typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but the drive isn’t as fun in windy conditions.

If you need a break while driving, stop at one of the small roadside stands and order a couple of pasties for lunch. These signature Upper Peninsula treats are savory pastries typically filled with meat, potatoes, and other veggies. 

When you finally return to St. Ignace, spend the last couple of days of your epic Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip experience enjoying the views of the Mackinac Bridge or taking the ferry over to Mackinac Island for the day.

After you’re done stretching your legs in St. Ignace, you can head back across the Mackinac Bridge, returning to the southern half of Michigan. 

What if You Don’t Want Your Michigan Road Trip to End?

If you have a lot of time to travel (like 3+ weeks) and don’t want your adventure to end, you can continue on through the mitten! There are 2 great route possibilities to take.

On the first road trip route, you can head down the western side along Lake Michigan. Make a stop in Traverse City before traveling over to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

With miles of shoreline, opportunities to enjoy the water, and hiking trails to explore , Sleeping Bear Dunes is a fitting add-on at the end of this itinerary. You could even continue along Lake Michigan all the way south to Grand Rapids.

On the second route, head straight down the middle of the mitten! Make a pit stop at Houghton Lake before ending your trip exploring the college towns of Lansing and Ann Arbor.

FAQs: Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip Planning

When it comes to planning an Upper Peninsula Road Trip, there are a few questions that come up over and over again. Here we provide the answers to common questions about planning a road trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Any special tips to keep in mind when planning a road trip through the UP?

The roads in the Upper Peninsula can be narrow and winding country roads, so it’s important to drive slowly and carefully. Also, be aware of the wildlife that may cross your path while driving. Finally, make sure you plan ahead for gas and food stops , as the UP is home to many remote areas.

You might go quite a distance between gas stations, and cell phone service is extremely spotty to nonexistent in some areas. We’d recommend stopping for gas when you see a station, even if you have half a tank!

How long does it take to drive around the Upper Peninsula?

To complete the loop including each of the stops on this itinerary, at least 17 hours of driving is required. This doesn’t include any side excursions, food stops, or bathroom breaks.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is big, and it takes a long time to drive around the whole area!

What is the best month to visit the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?

There is some debate about the best month to visit the Upper Peninsula. July and August are great for lake activities like boating and swimming.

September brings absolutely beautiful foliage and more manageable temperatures for hiking.

June is great for exploring waterfalls, but the water temperatures will likely be too cold to swim.

What is the prettiest part of the Upper Peninsula?

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is filled with so many breathtaking landscapes, it’s hard to choose the “prettiest” place. With its mountainous terrain, numerous lakes and rivers, and thickly wooded forests, it’s no wonder why this region has become a popular tourist destination.

One especially stunning spot is the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which has won awards for being the most beautiful state park in the US.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is also worth a visit for its surreal hues on both the cliffs and Lake Superior.

Isle Royale is stunning because it is so remote and undisturbed.

At any given point in your road trip, there are endless amounts of beauty that will be revealed —so just get lost in the wildness of Michigan’s U.P!

What food is Upper Peninsula known for?

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is known for its fresh, delicious food.

One classic dish you’ll find throughout the region is pasties – a savory pastry often filled with beef, potatoes, carrots, and other ingredients. Popular in areas with mining backgrounds, you can grab a pasty in almost any small town or convenience store around the peninsula.

You’ll also want to try Whitefish ! This Lake Superior delicacy was historically a staple fish among Native Americans in the Upper Midwest and is still widely cherished today. Whether it’s blackened or pan-fried, this yummy fish packs plenty of flavor, and you can’t get it any fresher!

Can you see the Northern Lights in the Upper Peninsula?

Yes, with the right conditions, you can see the Northern Lights from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! The Upper Peninsula actually has some of the best spots in the Great Lakes region and even the lower 48 states for viewing the Northern Lights.

Most nights during late autumn and winter bring clear skies and ideal weather for spotting auroras. The crystal-clear darkness also makes it easier to spot faint bands of lights that make up a full display of northern lights.

Check aurora forecasts before you go so you know what kind of chance you have to view the Northern Lights.

Visiting the Michigan Upper Peninsula on a road trip can be a truly unique and beautiful experience.

From hiking trails and scenery that offers unparalleled natural beauty, to towns with unique cultures and history, this route has been one of our favorite road trips to date. Stop and appreciate the beautiful Michigan sunsets along the way!

Pack your bags, take to these open country roads, and explore the Upper Peninsula on a road trip! In no time at all, you’ll find yourself completely immersed in all the northwoods adventure this area has to offer.

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

The Ultimate Michigan Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Days In The Great Lakes State

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Offering access to four of the five Great Lakes, so much space that you’ll never feel crowded and glorious weather all summer, a Michigan road trip is the perfect getaway! But with plenty of things to do and see spread across the state’s two peninsulas, it can be tricky to put it all together.

Thanks to the help of some expert locals, we were able to craft the best Michigan road trip itinerary for our family trip. I’ve shared all our details below (including some things I would skip or change) so that you can get started planning your own amazing Michigan summer vacation!

Quick Overview

Days 1:  Arrive in Detroit or Grand Rapids Days 2-3:  Northern Lower Peninsula Days 4:  Mackinac Island Days 5:  Eastern Upper Peninsula Days 6-8:   Munising Days 9-10:   Houghton

You can use this itinerary as a general guide, but feel free to modify it to suit your needs. It would be easy to expand this to a two week summer road trip itinerary by continuing south to Chicago at the end for a few days before you return home, as we did. Chicago offers much better flights than the small airports in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan anyway!

If you’re pressed for time, consider taking Houghton off the itinerary and departing from Marquette (45 minutes from Munising) or Green Bay (3 hours from Munising).

Of course you can always reverse the order of this Michigan road trip itinerary if it’s more convenient for you.

Michigan Road Trip Logistics

• Our family did almost exactly this itinerary, departing from our home in Columbus Ohio. We did it as a loop, heading down to Chicago for several days after leaving Michigan. It would have been slightly faster to double back and head down via the Lower Peninsula – but where’s the fun in that? For those who live outside of the area, you’ll want to price out several combinations of flight and rental car options. The most convenient airport to start you off is Grand Rapids, followed by Detroit. If you choose either of those, you’ll probably need a one-way car rental and can look at dropping off and flying back from Houghton (CMX), Marquette (MQT) or even Green Bay (GRB). Alternatively, it’s easy enough to do the whole road trip as a loop beginning and ending in Chicago – you’d just have one long day of driving on either end.
• The first part of this itinerary is pretty fast-paced, and that’s in part because the Upper Peninsula is the star of the show but it’s far from most decent sized airports. One option to minimize short stays is to drive straight from the Detroit or Grand Rapids airport to Mackinaw City (4 hours) the day you arrive and start off with two nights on Mackinac Island. You could then extend your time in the eastern UP to two nights to explore slower.
• I strongly recommend that you book far in advance if you’re planning a summer trip to Michigan. I locked down all of our accommodations eight months in advance but there were still some places where our options were limited because we were late to the party.
• To save big on your accommodations, grab this credit card ASAP. We got it after we had already booked our hotels but it would have covered two of them and saved us a lot of money!
• Many areas of the Upper Peninsula are remote and quite undeveloped. There are pockets – especially along Lake Superior – where you won’t have cell phone service. I recommend that you use the Google Maps app to download the map above for offline use, which you’ll need to do when you have WiFi. Alternatively you may want to have a map like this one available to you. We had a paper map with us in one of our guidebooks but unfortunately there were some inaccuracies.
• If you’re driving your own car, bring a cooler and ice packs to keep a supply of water, snacks and lunch foods on hand. We did lots of picnic lunches, as restaurants are sometimes sparse and almost always more expensive than they would be elsewhere. We opted to book hotels that included breakfast for simplicity and to start our days faster, but you can also throw in some yogurt, cereal and shelf-stable milk if you plan to stay in vacation rentals.
• Each State Park charges is $11 per car for admission. We chose to buy the $39 non-resident annual pass at the first State Park we visited to give us flexibility and contribute to the upkeep of these beautiful sites. If you’re planning a Michigan roadtrip on a budget, you can map your itinerary to decide what’s right for you.

10 Day Michigan Road Trip Itinerary

Time to get into the details of our 10 day Michigan summer road trip itinerary!

1 Day in Detroit (or nearby)

Most people embarking on a Michigan road trip will start in the Lower Peninsula, with Detroit being the typical starting point thanks to the presence of the state’s largest airport. To get your bearings once you fly in, spend the night in Detroit or the nearby college town of Ann Arbor.

If you’re arriving early enough in the day and prefer to focus more time on the charming hamlets further north, you can skip this part and drive straight north – it’ll take you about four hours from Detroit to Petoskey or one of the nearby communities along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Things to do in Detroit

• The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation – This neat museum has a little bit of everything, from Presidential limousines and the actual bus Rosa Parks refused to leave to an exhibit focused on math and illusions.
• Ford Rouge factory tour – Want to see how cars are made? Sign up for a Ford factory tour! Production only occurs on weekdays before 2pm (earlier is better) so time your visit accordingly.
• Motown Museum – Learn all about the history of Motown and see where the hits were made! We’ve tried to go twice and been foiled both time – be sure to reserve your tickets when they become available three weeks in advance.
• Enjoy Ann Arbor – Stop into quaint Ann Arbor to explore its vibrant, hip Main Street. If you’re really lucky you’ll be there for the Ann Arbor Art Fair , which is the largest juried art fair in the US. We had a great time and bought some fun art from a variety of artists! Don’t miss lunch at Zingerman’s Deli , and consider calling in your order the night before to avoid long lines at this deservedly iconic spot.

Where to stay in Detroit

• Near The Henry Ford: The Henry, Autograph Collection or Hampton Inn Dearborn
• Downtown Detroit: Detroit Foundation Hotel
• Ann Arbor: Exhibit A2

2 Days in Northern Lower Peninsula

If you’re looking to start off your Michigan vacation with some relaxation, head to the northwest edge of “the Mitten” to kick things off. Folks here refer to Lake Michigan as “big lake” but routinely enjoy plenty of activities on the numerous small lakes dotting the region.

Things to do in Northern Lower Peninsula

Your time here doesn’t need a huge to-do list to be honest. Depending on where you stay, you could easily pass a few days lounging on the beaches of Lake Michigan, kayaking on a smaller lake (since the big lake is too rough) and enjoying ice cream and slices of Americana in the many cute towns around the area like Petoskey, Charlevoix and Harbor Springs.

In case you prefer some more specific adventures check out thse fun things to do in the area:

• Boyne Mountain – This ski resort transforms into an adventure center in the summer, boasting zip lines, the “world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge”, chairlift rides, horseback riding and more.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – This picturesque Federally protected land is a favorite of many in the region. There are incredible 450 foot high bluffs and plenty of dunes to run around on and slide down.
• Torch Lake – You’d be forgiven for seeing photos here and thinking it’s the Caribbean thanks to the crystal clear shallow waters. There’s no real beach here though, you’ll want to enjoy the lake either by boat or swimming near the sandbar where the water is warmest.

Where to stay in Northern Lower Peninsula

Exactly where to stay depends on what you want to do, how far in advance you book and whether you prefer a hotel or a vacation rental (but note that many of these have a one week minimum in the busy summer season). Your drive time to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace will also depend on where you stay in this area.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey – While there’s no great view here, it’s conveniently located for access to the adorable towns of Petoskey, Charlevoix, Harbor Springs and more.
• Inn at Bay Harbor – The most luxurious property in the region, with an amazing lakeside location, spa, golf and more.
• Stafford’s Bay View Inn – Sweet b&b right on the lake filled with a combination of homey yet classy charm.
• Torch Lake vacation home – If you’re excited about the warm, turquoise waters of Torch Lake or Sleeping Bear Dunes, grab this vacation home that’s just a 5 minute walk from the shore! It’s also a quick drive to the town of Bellaire, which has plenty of shops and restaurants.

Restaurants around Northern Lower Peninsula

There are a million restaurants in the area to try, but my biggest tip would be to pick spots by the water for the evenings (and bring a sweater).

• Barrel Back Restaurant – Great views and good food on Walloon Lake. This is on the second floor, so if you can get a window table you’ll be warm while enjoying the scenery!
• Pier Restaurant – Dockside dining in Harbor Springs, with an emphasis on locally-caught fish and seafood.
• Symon’s General Store – Perfect lunch stop for custom deli sandwiches in Petoskey, either to eat at the picnic tables in the adjacent park or to take to nearby Petoskey State Beach.
• American Spoon – This Michigan fruit preserve company has stores located in many towns along the Michigan coast, but if you go to their Petoskey location (next to Symon’s) you can enjoy those preserves made into delicious gelato!

1 Day on Mackinac Island

Many Michiganders look to Mackinac Island (pronounced “Mackinaw”) as a way to step back in time. The island has been a sacred gathering space for the local Indigenous communities since long before French fur traders arrived in the 1600s. Without a bridge to connect Mackinac to the mainland ever , much of the island’s historic character has been maintained.

Access remains by boat and on-island transportation is restricted to horses, bikes, occasional mobility scooters for those with physical challenges, and personal snowmobiles in the winter. Even golf carts are (supposed to be) relegated to golf courses.

You’ll reach the island by ferry, and can take either Star Line or Shepler’s. I’ve heard recommendations for both and I really don’t think it matters which one you take, though Shepler’s is a little less expensive. Both companies offer departures from Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) and St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula) – if you get to the area early in the morning, you may opt for St. Ignace so that you’re crossing the Mackinac Bridge in low traffic.

You’ll save a few dollars by purchasing in advance online if you’re positive about your departure location, and if you’re visiting as a group or family look for the 3-4 packs of tickets for real savings. Shepler’s offers free day parking at both ports but you’ll have to pay for overnight parking with both companies at both locations.

Some visitors opt to bring their own bikes to Mackinac Island on the ferry, which is understandable because rentals are $50-60 for 4 hours! For most visitors just biking the loop with some stops (more info on that below) 2-3 hours should be sufficient. But if you’re bringing your own bike or trailer prepare to pay around $20 for its ferry ticket in addition to yours.

Since we had several weeks worth of gear in our van and only planned for one night on the island, we each brought a backpack for our overnight needs. The front desk of the Chippewa Hotel was kind enough to store them for us while we went biking.

Things to do on Mackinac Island

• Bike around Mackinac Island – There’s a perfect 8 mile loop around Mackinac Island that brings you to stunning rock formations, beautiful stone beaches, historic sites and more. It’s a can’t-miss activity if you’re physically able! We spent just over two hours looping the island, including leisurely stops in several places, trekking up the steep stairs to Arch Rock and getting ice cream at British Landing. There are several rental companies right at the dock when you get off the ferry and they’re all about the same. We found a wide selection of high-quality adult and kids bikes, plus trailers and tag-a-longs for younger kids (or less confident riders). Be sure to dip your toes in Lake Huron!
• Mackinac Island carriage tour – If you aren’t able to cycle or prefer not to, hop on a carriage operated by the world’s largest horse and buggy livery! The scenic carriage tours visit many of the island’s main attractions including Arch Rock, the Grand Hotel, the butterfly conservatory and Ford Mackinac. At the Fort this tour offers a “hop-on hop-off” option, which is the only way to visit For Mackinac without climbing a massive hill.
• Fort Mackinac – Perched high above the harbor, the 18th century Fort Mackinac still stands sentinel over the town below. It was constructed during the American Revolution and much of it remains largely as it was. There are plenty of fascinating things to do here in the span of an hour or two: attend one of many demonstrations throughout the day including cannon firing, check out the infrastructure that supported soldiers’ daily lives and even read the stories of officer’ families who were stationed there over time.
• Mackinac town historic sites – When you purchase a combo ticket for For Mackinac, you’ll also have access to several historic buildings in the town below. There are interesting for the stories they tell as well as demonstrations of life on the island during and shortly after the colonial period. We enjoyed both the blacksmith demonstration as well as the cooking demonstration.
• Butterfly House – We didn’t have time to visit either of the butterfly conservatories on Mackinac Island, but yes there are two! Based on recommendations I’ve received, I’d head to Butterfly House if time allows. It offers 1800 square feet of tropical gardens housing myriad butterflies and other interesting insects and is located just east of town – you’ll be only a block away as you head out to cycle around the island’s loop.

Where to stay on Mackinac Island

It can be tricky to find places to stay on Mackinac Island for just one night in the summer! Many properties have a two night minimum because it’s peak season and the island has strict zoning laws so you won’t find many true vacation rentals.

• Pontiac Lodge – If you plan to spend 2 nights on Mackinac Island, consider the much-loved Pontiac Lodge. It’s in the heart of town, walking distance to plenty of restaurants, shops and sites.
• Mission Point Resort – This b&b on the outskirts of town looks lovely and offers a variety of room sizes, and without the fanciness of The Grand Hotel. But it still doesn’t come cheap, so be sure to check prices before you commit.
• Sunset Condominiums – We stayed at this “condotel” right near Woods Restaurant and let’s say that it wasn’t our favorite place. Despite not being cheap (compared with non-Mackinac pricing) it really wasn’t great. No AC (or working bug screens), paper thin walls, very tired furnishings… but the upside is that it was one of the only places on the island I could book for one night, even eight months in advance.

Restaurants on Mackinac Island

You’re unlikely to find much “budget” dining (or anything else) on Mackinac due to both its popularity as a tourist destination as well as the expense and logistical challenges of island life.

• The Pink Pony – This 75 year old restaurant is so iconic that it’s basically the first thing you’ll see as you pull into the harbor, with the pink umbrellas fronting the Chippewa Hotel coming into view. It offers solid food and refreshing drinks. It also offers long lines (particularly when there’s a yacht race coming on to the island) so you might consider putting your name down as soon as you arrive on Mackinac and then going to do something else – we went for a bike ride around the island after storing our larger backpack with the helpful front desk at the hotel. Don’t miss the gift shop and free fudge samples as well!
• Woods Restaurant – This lodge-like outpost of The Grand Hotel sits on the far side of the island near Sunset Rock. Attire is a little less formal than at the Hotel itself (since you’ll either be trekking on dirt roads or riding in a horse-drawn carriage to get there) but you’ll still find ladies in dresses and some men in summer suits. We dined on the patio, which is lovely and charming. The food at Woods Restaurant is good but not life-changing (which you might expect at the price point). I would say it’s a “go for the experience” type of restaurant. Apparently there’s a duck pin bowling inside to enjoy while you wait but our otherwise excellent server didn’t mention it to us or our kids. Speaking of kids, in addition to a children’s menu they can do a child portion of some main dishes if you arrive early enough. If you plan to dine at Woods Restaurant, be sure to call a few days in advance to reserve a table at your preferred time. We opted to eat on the early side and then enjoy the sunset afterward (though the typical Michigan cloud cover didn’t oblige).
• Doud’s Market – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to get food on Mackinac Island, Doud’s is a good choice. There’s an ample selection of snacks, breakfast and even pizza. If you visit their “Market & Deli” location near Shepler’s ferry they have sandwiches as well. We popped in and grabbed yogurt and muffins to eat while we waited for a morning ferry back to the mainland and it worked out perfectly.

1 Day in the Eastern Upper Peninsula

Once you cross the “mighty Mac” (aka Mackinac bridget), the largest single-span suspension in the western hemisphere, you’ll arrive in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Many people blast through this area and head straight to Munising, but I think it offers enough fun things to do that it’s worth staying the night.

Things to do in the eastern Upper Peninsula

• Tahquamenon Falls State Park – This is the star of the show! These are the biggest waterfalls in Michigan and some of the largest in the eastern half of North America (though we’ve seen some very impressive ones in Niagara Falls , Finger Lakes and Quebec in the last year as well). The Upper Falls can be viewed from an accessible viewing area above or from a viewing platform that’s down a length set of stairs – but worth the walk if you can do it. We spent most of our time at the Lower Falls and you probably will too! Put on your swimsuit or water-friendly clothes and shoes and prepare to get wet. Lower Tahquamenon Falls is a great place for sure-footed adventurers to feel the cascades up close. You can either rent a rowboat or take the boardwalk out to the island in the middle of the river, where you’ll find visitors of all ages splashing and having fun. Do be careful, as there are some slippery patches of stone. One of the first things you’ll probably notice is the color of the water: it’s a rich brown, earning the site the nickname “Rootbeer Falls”. Just know that the water at Tahquamenon Falls is clean enough to swim in! The color is caused by tannins from nearby tree bark leeching into the water.

• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum – This fascinating, well-done museum shares the tragic histories of some of the thousands of ships that have met their end in this treacherous part of the Great Lakes region. The experience is equal parts memorial, story-telling and an opportunity to learn about marine archeology. You can easily spend several hours exploring the complex, which also includes the historic lightkeeper’s quarters which share the human side of the site. Allow 2-3 hours to explore the entire museum, including a video about the SS Edmund Fitzgerald.

• Whitefish Point – Right behind the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is the beautiful beach at Whitefish Point. It has a nice sandy stretch and then a rocky entry as is typical of Lake Superior beaches. This is the perfect place to practice your stone skipping! I recommend wearing a swimsuit or water-friendly clothing along with some sort of water-friendly footwear, as it’s a shame not to enjoy the relatively warm shallow water here.

• MI Dog – This awesome sled dog training facility is the perfect place to go if you’re on a Michigan road trip with kids! Owner Laura Neese is a long-distance musher and she opens her kennel up to visitors in the summer. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about dog sledding and the close relationship between a musher and her team, and also cuddle some adorable husky puppies! We visited another small kennel in Alaska with the kids and it turns out they even know each other. We had originally planned to visit a roadside animal attraction in Newberry, but read some upsetting information on how the animals are treated. If that’s on your radar, please be sure to research it thoroughly.

Where to stay in the eastern Upper Peninsula

I’ll be totally honest that we didn’t like where we stayed in Newberry, but everything in Paradise was booked eight months in advance or required a multi-night stay.

• Tahquamenon Suites Lodging – Simple but clean accommodations in an excellent location in Paradise! Just 15 minutes from both the falls and Whitefish Point. This hotel does have a two night minimum, so it’s only an option if you’re planning a slower pace in this area.
• Americas Best Value Inn Tahquamenon Country – If you’re just staying one night in the eastern UP, congrats… this is where you’ll be staying unless you decide to camp. It was “fine” but not a place we would have voluntarily stayed for a second night.

3 Days in Munising

Munising is one of the major highlights of the Upper Peninsula. There are so many things to do in Munising itself and in the surrounding area that you could easily extend your visit here to a fourth day.

We spent our arrival day and all of the following day exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the next day in and around Manistique and then visited the sites in and around Marquette en route to our next stop. That UP itinerary worked very well!

Get more details: Awesome Things to do in Munising MI: A Road Tripper’s Guide

Things to do in Munising

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – These iconic rainbow-hued sandstone cliffs are the biggest draw to Munising and should be at the top of your Upper Peninsula bucket list!
• Sand Point beach – Sand Point offers warm water and beautiful sunsets, plus a convenient location close to town.
• Pictured Rocks boat tour – To get a close up look at the cliffs, take a trip with Pictured Rocks Cruises . If the weather looks good, I recommend taking the last classic cruise that’s before the sunset cruise for brilliant colors and views in both directions.
• Kitch-iti-kipi – The “big cold spring” at Palms Book State Park is stunning! As you go across on a rope-propelled raft, you’ll see fish and wreckage below all the way to its 40ft depth. Plan to leave Munising first thing in the morning, as the drive is just under an hour and lines get long after lunch.
• Manistique – This cute town near Kitch-iti-kipi offers a warm, calm Lake Michigan beach at ThompsonRogers Roadside Park. You can visit the lighthouse in town as well.
• Lakenenland – Awesome privately owned but publicly accessible sculpture garden. Artist Tom Lakenen transforms scrap material into large-scale, interactive art. Wear your good walking shoes because you’ll be getting a lot of steps in!
• Marquette – For a totally different vibe, head to this quirky college town for lunch and a stroll on your way to Houghton. It’s also home to the iconic red Marquette Harbor Lighthouse.
• Sugarloaf Mountain – One of the best hikes in the Upper Peninsula. It’s about a 1.5 mile loop, but covers around 1,000 feet of elevation (some of that is on graded trail and some is on stairs). I’d rate it “moderate” and family-friendly. The views from the top are simply stunning!

Where to stay in Munising

• Holiday Inn Express Munising – Lakeview – We stayed here and it was excellent! If you book a balcony room (as we did) you can actually see Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from you room. There’s a huge indoor pool, a lovely patio looking out to Lake Superior and rooms for up to six people!
• Roam Inn – If you’d rather stay in town, consider Roam Inn. It’s upstairs from the excellent Tracey’s restaurant, which is the perfect place to enjoy a high-end dinner while admiring the colorful sky over Lake Superior. Roam Inn offers rooms for two or four people.

Restaurants near Munising

• Tracey’s – As I mentioned above, this is the place to be for fine dining in Munising. Be sure to reserve a patio table shortly before sunset and grab a cocktail while you wait for your dinner to arrive.
• Pictured Rocks Pizza – Grab a top-quality pie to go and enjoy it as the sun goes down at nearby Sand Point beach. If it’s already dark, you can take advantage of their large turf patio to hang out on a summer evening over pizza and a soda.
• Frosty Treats – Fantastic sundaes in the heart of Marquette!
• Clyde’s Drive In – Burger lovers will have a great time at the Manistique outpost of this UP favorite. The food is delicious, fresh and affordable. There’s even a “Jr. Burger” for those with a smaller appetite, which ran us $3.45 in 2023.

2 Days in Houghton

Houghton is as far north as you’ll stay on this Upper Peninsula Michigan road trip, and it’s so far north that my cell phone welcomed me to Canada while we explored the Keweenaw Peninsula!

If you’re able to add an extra day to your Michigan summer itinerary, consider doing it here and taking a day trip to Isle Royale National Park – you can go by seaplane directly from Houghton or by ferry from Copper Harbor (there’s also a ferry from Houghton but it’s far too long to be practical for a day trip).

Get more details: 6 Unforgettable Things to do in Houghton, Michigan

Things to do in Houghton

• Quincy Mine tour – This is an excellent tour of a massive copper mine complex, but it also gives you a fascinating look at the Keweenaw Peninsula’s rise and fall over the 20th century. This site is part of the Keweenaw National Historical Park, and you’ll see the impressive above-ground facilities in addition to taking a lengthy walk in the mine. Best for kids 8+.
• Adventure Mining Company – This is another option for a mine tour near Houghton Michigan, but with optional “thrill” experiences for teens and adults.
• Chutes and Ladders playground – Massive climbing and slides playground along the waterfront in downtown Houghton.
• Brockway Mountain Drive – This scenic road between Silver River Falls and the village of Copper Harbor offers great scenic lookouts that don’t require any hiking. Just keep your eyes peeled for the very obvious places to stop.
• Agate Beach – This pretty spot just west of Copper Harbor is the perfect place to go hunting for agates and other beautiful rocks.
• Astor Shipwreck Park – This lovely beach park is just outside the bounds of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. It’s an awesome place to relax and enjoy views of the Copper Harbor lighthouse as you wrap up your epic Michigan roadtrip!

Of course there are also tons of hiking trails in the area if you’re looking for active exploration!

Where to stay in Houghton

• Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton – We had a solid stay at this hotel, though there’s not a whole lot that sets it apart other than a generous breakfast spread in a really pleasant room (which isn’t always the case with simple chain hotels).
• Holiday Inn Express Houghton-Keweenaw

Restaurants near Houghton

• Harbor Haus – A delicious dinner in Copper Harbor for the last night of your Michigan UP road trip! It’s not cheap, and you’ll want to make a reservation a few days in advance.
• Milly’s Hancock – Great pizza spot in Hancock
• Keweenaw Co-Op Market & Deli – Perfect lunch stop thanks to their awesome sandwiches at the deli counter in the back

What to Pack for a Michigan Road Trip

There are a few things you’ll definitely want to pack for a summer road trip in Michigan. We brought these and found them very helpful!

• A paper map  – Some of these areas, particularly Upper Peninsula, don’t have great phone service. I suggest downloading maps to use offline in the Google Maps app, but also bringing  this paper map  as backup.
• A cooler  – This route covers about 1,000 miles so there are plenty of days when you’ll wind up driving around mealtime! We were really happy to have  this adorable (and effective) cooler  and  these serious ice packs  (2 of the XL size) with us for picnic lunches, quick hotel breakfasts and snack breaks. Everything stayed cold when we needed it to and the cooler has enough organization to consolidate paper plates, utensils, paper towels and even a bottle opener. We also brought collapsible silicone containers , which were helpful for snacks, blueberry picking and even sandwiches.
• Summer clothing (mostly)  – We were able to get away with almost exclusively summer clothes. In addition, we each brought one pair of jeans, one pair of hiking pants, a long sleeve t-shirt and a fleece or sweatshirt. Thankfully it’s a pretty easy trip to pack light for.
• Water-friendly shoes – While I’m personally not a fan of Keens, something along those lines is ideal footwear for a summer trip to Michigan. Once you leave the lower peninsula, most of the beaches have rocky entries and you’ll really appreciate having something protecting your feet. If you like Keens, you may be able to use them as your only footwear!
• Bug repellant – We had fewer bug challenges than we feared, but in general you’ll find plenty of mosquitos in northern Michigan. Bring insect repellant wipes for easy application when you know you’ll be outside for a long time.
• National Parks passport – The perfect way to remember your Michigan road trip is by getting stamps in your National Parks passport ! Opportunities include Pictured Rocks, Sleep Bear Dunes, Isle Royale, Keweenaw NHP and more. Just bring your passport inside any visitors center and use the provided stamps.

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• Upper Peninsula Road Trip

Ultimate Upper Peninsula Road Trip: 6 Jaw Dropping (Mostly Free) Spots in Michigan's UP

By Sherry Trautman

Upper Peninsula Road Trip | By Sherry Trautman | Traveling Michigan

Join us on our Upper Peninsula Michigan Road Trip vacation as we tour pristine vistas, jaw dropping waterfalls, great views of Lake Superior and exciting attractions in Michigan's pristine UP.  There are so many things to do in UP Michigan!

We plan to take this exact trip again this year, we had so much fun! 

Upper Peninsula Michigan Map of Our Road Trip!

Zoom in and out of the map to see our stops!

Click the links below for full city guides, tips, maps, photos and things to do!

• Mackinaw City  (See our City Guide)
• Mackinac Island  (See our Island Guides!)
• Tahquamenon Falls or a train ride/river boat excursion (Tons of photos, info)
• Whitefish Point  (This place is spectacular! See our photos and things to do!)
• Manistique  (be sure to visit this page, there's at least 2 full days of activities and additional map of things to see in this area )
• Kitch-iti-kipi (Highlight of the summer! This place is jaw-dropping!)

FYI: You will need a state park pass for two of these locations.  Since we travel all over Michigan, we automatically have this sticker on our license plate.  Below is more information.  You can purchase the pass at the parks where needed.

In State : You can get a Recreation Passport through the Secretary of State when renewing license tabs.  If you don't have a Passport, vehicles will pay $17, motorcycles will pay $11.

Out of State:  There is a $9 single day pass if you are an out of state tourist. You can get into any Michigan State Park including both sites (Upper and Lower Falls) at the Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

Let's Kick Off This Trip at Mackinaw City!

Of course, Mackinaw City is the gateway to Mackinac Island , so if you have extra time, be sure to visit this magnificent island that is just a ferry ride away!

Click the links above for lots of information, tips, hotels, photos, guides, maps and everything you need to visit the two cities!

Grab our guide, hints and tips when visiting Mackinac Island!!

Next Up: Tahquamenon Falls!

41382 W. M 123, Paradise MI, 49768

At 200 feet wide and 50 feet tall, the Upper Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan. Did you know the water flows at more than 50,000 gallons per second?!

Read more on our dedicated Tahquamenon Falls page !  Lots of tips, maps, photos and information!!!

Tahquamenon Falls Riverboat Tours

Address: 7195 Co Rd 381, Soo Junction, MI 49000

As an option, if you wish to embark on a day trip that involves a train ride and riverboat cruise, Tahquamenon Falls Riverboat Tours is perfect for you! 

One of the options is a 6 1/2 hour wilderness tour that begins with a 35 minute narrow gauge train ride, followed by a 2 hour, narrated riverboat cruise. ​After reaching the rapids above the falls, the riverboat docks for one hour and fifteen minutes so you can embark on a 5/8 mile nature hike to see the upper Tahquamenon Falls.

After the stopover, the riverboat and train retrace their route back to Soo Junction. At the time of this writing, this tour ran from July 1 - October 3, departing from Soo Junction, MI at 10:30 AM and returning at 5:00 PM.  Check their website to book your tickets and get up to date information. 

Whitefish Point

We absolutely love visiting Whitefish Point!  Plan to spend at least 2.5 hours there to explore the places listed below.  There are nice restrooms and snacks in the gift shop.  We purchased popcorn and fudge while we were there.  

While visiting Whitefish Point, you will see:

• See the Whitefish Point Light Tower, in continuous operation for 155 years, the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior (and maybe climb it depending on the weather and availability)
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum with shipwreck memorabilia including the Edmond Fitzgerald's bell. 
• 1861 Lightkeeper’s Quarters & Exhibits
• Guided tour of 1923 Surfboat House & Exhibits
• Be sure to check out the fantastic views of Lake Superior and explore the hiking trails!

CLICK HERE for a ton of Whitefish Point photos, tips, information and things to know before you go!

Visit Scenic Manistique

We hope you love visiting Manistique!  

While visiting  Manistique,  you can:

• Explore the boardwalk with magnificent views of Lake Michigan
• Walk out to the Manistique Breakwater Light
• Discover a wildlife area
• Explore a wildlife refuge
• Go on fantastic hikes with wildlife galore!

CLICK HERE for a ton of  Manistique photos, tips, information  and things to know before you go!

Kitch-iti-kipi is Breathtaking!

Friends, if you are only going to do one thing this summer, GO TO KITCH-ITI-KIPI!  We were blown away by its beauty! 

What is it?   Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan's largest natural spring that is crystal clear and full of fish!

The spring delivers 16,000 gallons per minute! HOLY MOLY!

Hop aboard the raft that will take you across the bubbling emerald green springs.  I love the middle viewing area as the water is so crystal clear! It offers a great view of the fish and the magical bubbling springs. The raft has a roof so you are able to see the fish very clearly without the glare from the sun. 

CLICK HERE for a ton of  Kitch-iti-kipi photos, tips, information  and things to know before you go!

Find Yooperlites!!

What are Yooperlites?   These fantastic glow in the dark stones can be found all along the shoreline of Lake Superior. Read more about these fantastic Yooperlite rocks and where to find them !

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About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

Thanks for stopping by.

Our Words of Wisdom: “Never follow anyone else’s path. Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, then by all means follow that path.”

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We're Sherry and Chris the founders of one of Michigan's most comprehensive and Top Travel Blogs!

Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Road Trip: Must-see Stops

This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I (The Winding Road Tripper) earn from qualifying purchases.  Read more . 

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (commonly called the UP) is the perfect place for your next road trip adventure.

It’s full of beautiful nature and outdoor adventures that will make your heart sing. You can go hiking, biking, camping , fishing, and boating in this area! And there are also many historical sites and museums for those who enjoy learning about history while on vacation.

Being a short 6-hour drive from the UP, we’ve completed several road trips to the area and can’t wait to share our favorite road trip stops with you.

You won’t want to miss out on all these fantastic things to do when planning your next road trip! We promise it will be an experience you won’t forget anytime soon!

How Long Do You Need For an Upper Peninsula Adventure Road Trip

When planning your Upper Michigan road trip, you may be wondering how many days to spend in the Upper Peninsula?

Our answer is at least ten days to explore both the western and eastern sides of the UP. But we suggest two weeks if you can swing it to be sure to have enough time to explore it all without feeling rushed.

If you don’t have 10-14 days, we suggest narrowing your trip down and picking one of the two sides to explore. Recently we spent one week in Western UP, and on a past road trip, we spent four days in Eastern UP.

When is the Best Time of Year for an Upper Peninsula Road Trip?

If we had to pick a “best” time, we would say Fall.

The fall colors in the Upper Peninsula are some of the best in the US. The exact timeframe for when the colors will be in full bloom is unknown, but you can estimate the end of September to mid-October. Fall is also a great time to visit to avoid some of those annoying bugs like mosquitos and black flies.

Our other picks would be Spring and Summer.

Winter is also beautiful in the Upper Peninsula, with many snowmobile trails and cross-country and downhill skiing. But we’d only recommend it in Winter if those were the activities you enjoy.

Related Post: Map of Michigan Campgrounds

Things to Know Before You Go on Your Upper Peninsula Road Trip

We weren’t prepared for a few things when we embarked on our first UP road trip. Here are a few things to be aware of before you go so you won’t be surprised. 

Minimal Cell Phone Coverage

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, like most remote areas in America, suffers from low cell phone coverage. This means that there is no guarantee that you’ll find a cell phone signal while traveling through this area.

While having no cell phone service can be a great thing if you are looking to get away from your busy day-to-day life, it can be problematic if you don’t prepare for it.

Here is what you can do to prepare for minimal cell phone coverage in the UP

• Download the map of the area you will be traveling in. Do this in whatever GPS mapping service you plan to use, like Google or Apple Maps.
• Have a paper map with you. If you are a AAA member , you can request one from them. Or you get one on Amazon or for free at Welcome Centers.
• Bring hard copies of all reservation confirmations.

Fill Up on Gas Often

The UP is not a heavily populated area. Therefore, there may be great distances between gas stations.

When traveling through the UP, make sure to fill your gas tank often. We suggest filling up as soon as you reach a half tank. That way you won’t run the risk of running out of gas in an area with no gas stations and no cell phone service.

Must-Try Food of the Upper Peninsula

A road trip would not be complete without trying the tasty treats the region is known for.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has a few local delicacies you will want to try before you leave the area. 

A Pasty is a baked pastry, usually containing a savory filling consisting of meat and vegetables.

It is a traditional dish from Cornwall in the United Kingdom, especially popular as a lunch item. It was historically a working man’s food, but it has become popular with many other people.

Fresh Fish from Lake Superior

Don’t miss out on the amazing fish sourced right from the Great Lakes.

You’ll often find whitefish or lake trout offered as an entree at restaurants or make a point to stop at one of the fish markets, like  Peterson’s  in Hancock, MI.

The smoked whitefish and lake trout are excellent, and we highly recommend trying them.

Thimbleberry Jam

If you are fortunate to be traveling the Upper Peninsula during Thimbleberry season (middle to late summer), don’t miss out on trying some thimbleberry jam. Rarely seen outside the Upper Peninsula, this jam is a real treat.

The jam is sweet and tart with some floral notes and is a perfect treat for your weekend breakfast.

Must-See Stops for a Fantastic Upper Peninsula Road Trip

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is absolutely stunning. And is a perfect place to experience the wonder of nature.

There is so much to see and so many ways to have fun when you visit this area.

Here is our list and map of favorite stops for you to consider when planning your Upper Peninsula road trip.

How to Use This Map : Click on the icon on the top left-hand corner. You will now see all of the layers of the map. Layers include places to see and driving directions. You can click the checkboxes to the left of the layer name to turn on and off the layers. Click on the map icons to get more info on each location. To see the map in more detail, click on the  [ ]  in the top right-hand corner. This will bring to a larger map where the details of each point can be found by clicking on the location point name in the list on the left. You can also save the map for your own use, click the to the right of ⭐ the map name. This will save the map to your Google Maps where you can make a copy and use it for your own trip planning. Do you want to create your own Google Map? Check Out  How to Plan a Road Trip With Google Maps

Porcupine Mountains State Wilderness Area

Known for its outstanding hiking trails, gorgeous scenery, and abundance of waterfalls, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness Area (aka “The Porkies”) is the Upper Peninsula’s most popular state park.

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, it offers visitors a truly breathtaking experience that will stay with them for years to come.

It’s known for its amazing backpacking trails with reservable campsites, cabins, and yurts throughout the park. But you don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy this gorgeous park.

We spent 3-days day hiking through The Porkies and felt it was a perfect amount of time to experience this gem.

If you don’t plan on hiking, 2-days in The Porkies will be plenty of time to see the highlights including the Presque Isle Waterfall Loop and Lake of the Clouds .

Related Post: Best Hikes to Explore the Porcupine Mountains

With more than 130 waterfalls located in the UP, you’ll be sure to want to add a few to your road trip itinerary. Check out our digital map of Michigan waterfalls to help you plan your trip.

Some of the favorites that aren’t otherwise mentioned in this post include:

• Bond Falls – Ontonagon County
• Munising Falls – Munising, MI
• Agate Falls – Trout Creek, MI
• Hungarian Falls – Houghton County, Michigan

One of our favorite things to do on a road trip is to explore the area on foot.

If this is your thing, too, then the UP will not disappoint.

The Upper Peninsula has some of the best hiking in the Midwest. We had to fortune to hike through old-growth forests to beautiful vistas and waterfalls during our two road trips.

Here is a list of our favorite hikes:

• Escarpment Trail – Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
• West River Trail and East River Trail Loop – Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
• Bare Bluff Trail – Keweenaw County, Michigan
• Montreal Falls – Keweenaw County, Michigan
• Sugarloaf Mountain – Marquette, MI
• Mosquito Falls and Chapel Falls via Chapel Loop – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Copper Mine Tour

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, copper mining was one of the Upper Peninsula’s most important industries.

And there are many old copper mines left for you to explore during your UP road trip.

Two of the favorites among the Upper Peninsula Travel Facebook group are Quincy Mine and Adventure Mine.

The Quincy Mine and Museum offers visitors an up-close and personal experience of Upper Peninsula mining history.

Tour guides will show you how copper ore was mined and tell interesting stories of the people who once worked in this mine.

Adventure Mine is for all those looking for a bit of excitement. During this tour, you can rappel down a mine shaft to really experience what it was like to work in the copper mine. And if rappelling isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other worthwhile tours you can take to learn about the history of this mine.

Keweenaw Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula’s Keweenaw Peninsula is a must-see for any Upper Peninsula Road Trip.

This area has some of the most beautiful scenic drives, hikes, and viewpoints in Michigan. This is also a great area to grab some delicious food.

Try to allow two days to explore the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Here are our favorite stops on the Keweenaw Peninsula:

• Brockway Mountain Scenic Drive – This 9.5-mile drive gives you sweeping views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area.
• Horseshoe Harbor Beach – Located off a narrow dirt road at the peninsula’s tip, this secluded beach is a great place to pause and take in nature.
• Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary – This old-growth forest has moderately easy hikes to enjoy the towering pine trees.
• Jacob’s Falls and Jampot – This waterfall and bakery go hand in hand since they are right next to each other. Stop and check out Jacob’s falls for a quick roadside picture before waiting in line at the Jampot for some delicious bakery.

Related Post: Must-See Things to Do in the Keweenaw Peninsula Map of Michigan Waterfalls Map of Michigan Campgrounds

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, designated as a national lakeshore in 1965, features nearly 40 miles of stunning Lake Superior shoreline. We recommend spending 2-3 days exploring this area.

With towering sandstone cliffs and crystal blue water, the scenery in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is mesmerizing.

There are many ways to experience this landscape, too. And we recommend both experiencing from land and water.

From land, you can tackle some of the many hiking trails in the park. Or, if you aren’t into hiking, there are incredible viewpoints within the park for you to experience the beauty.

Now from water, there are options for boat tours that take you along the colorful sandstone cliff giving you a different perspective on which to view the park. There are also kayak tours that allow you to get up close and personal with the water and cliffs.

We chose to do a trip with Pictured Rock Kayaking and had one of our favorite outdoor experiences.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Home of one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, Tahquamenon Falls is a stop not to miss on your Upper Peninsula Road Trip.

At the Upper Falls, you will take a short 0.3 walk to take you to 94 steps that will take you down to the Upper Falls viewing platform. When you arrive at the Upper Falls observation platform, do not be surprised if a crowd is already watching and photographing the Upper Tahquamenon Falls.

While the size of this waterfall makes it spectacular, the amber color of the water caused by the tannins in the water adds an extra special flair.

You can also check out the Lower Falls area of the park, where you’ll find five beautiful cascades. Here you can also get a different perspective of the falls by renting a rowboat.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is also a great stop if you are hungry because there just so happens to be a brewery and pub located on the property.

Sault Ste. Marie and the Soo Locks

Sault Ste. Marie is a charming city full of history and beautiful waterfront views.

It also happens to be home to the Soo Locks, which allow ships to travel between Lake Superior and the rest of the Great Lakes.

If you love marine life or boat watching, this stop should undoubtedly be on your Upper Peninsula Road Trip.

You can visit the Locks by taking a boat tour or just watching from the observation decks.

Kitch-iti-kipi

Kitch-iti-kipi (meaning big cold spring in the Ojibwe language) is Michigan’s largest spring-fed, clear freshwater springs.

This spring is a sight to see. You can see old decaying trees, vegetation, and fish below the surface with its crystal blue water. It’s like looking into a whole other world.

Swimming here is not allowed, but you can view it from a self-propelled raft that will take you to the middle of the spring.

More Road Trip Adventures: West Virginia Road Trip: 17 Wild and Wonderful Stops

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See , USA · February 20, 2024

The Perfect Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip Summer Itinerary

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We went on our Michigan Upper Peninsular road trip in the summer of 2021 with very few expectations. We heard this region of the United States was super underrated and packed with beauty and adventure. Boy, were they right!

On our Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip, we found ourselves kayaking on a National Lakeshore, camping in dense forests, having lunch near spectacular waterfalls, visiting charming towns, and even rowing across a natural spring. We could not believe what we had been missing all these years!

The Upper Peninsula, or U.P. for short, blew us away . Thankfully, with the help of this summer Michigan Upper Peninsular road trip itinerary, it can blow you away too.

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Michigan’s Upper Peninsula isn’t on many travelers’ bucket lists. This remote region, above Michigan’s “Mitt” is home to less than 300,000 people year-round and is filled with stunning landscapes, serene lakeshores, and dense forests – making it the perfect place for a summer road trip .

This  summer Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip itinerary  will take you to the top sights of the U.P. sharing tips on where to stay, what to eat, and what to do in each destination.

The U.P. is considered one of the coldest and snowiest places in the United States. Spring comes late, and summer passes quickly. June is typically when you can start exploring comfortably but it will likely still be cool in the evenings.

🪰 Be warned if you’re coming in late May to early July. This is blackfly season. These flies are enormous and have a nasty bite. They are not deterred by bug spray and can even bite through clothes! We saw videos of people traveling during this time and they couldn’t walk from their vehicles to the viewpoint without being attacked by black flies.

We went in late July and early August and the weather was perfect. We didn’t have to deal with blackflies and it wasn’t yet chilly. It is peak tourist season for this region, so be ready for crowds, particularly in iconic spots like Mackinac Island and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Where to Start and End Your Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip

If you’re flying to Michigan and renting a car for your Upper Peninsula road trip, search for flights to Pellston Regional Airport. This is the closest airport to the U.P., but tickets will likely be expensive because of how small the airport is.

🚙 We drove up Michigan’s western shore from Grand Rapids, which is a much larger and likely cheaper airport to fly into. Detroit is another option with a massive international airport.

If you have more time than money and want to extend your trip, I highly encourage flying into one of these two airports and driving up. Driving from Grand Rapids or Detroit will take around 4 to 5 hours in total and both airports have rental car companies you can easily rent with.

Since the UP is a peninsula its land connection is on the northwestern side of Wisconsin. We recommend starting in Michigan and flying back to Green Bay Wisconsin. Search for an “ open-jaw ” flight that arrives and departs from different airports when booking.

Also, make sure your car rental company knows you’ll be dropping off in a different location. Sometimes there is a surcharge for this.

As full-time RVers, we had the luxury of 4 weeks to do our Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip. However, 11 to 14 days is ideal for those who have limited vacation time but still want to enjoy the U.P. fully.

If that’s still too long, this trip can be done in as little as 8 to 10 days if you cut out Bond Falls, Porcupine Mountains, and the Keweenaw Peninsula. However, you’re missing some of the most beautiful parts of this region by doing that!

Two weeks will give you plenty of time between your long drives to hike, eat delicious food, take a dip in the lake, and learn about this region’s unique history. It also gives you time to coordinate driving to and from the larger cities if you’re flying in.

Day 1 : Drive 5 hours from Detroit or Grand Rapids to St. Ignace. Day 2 : Stay in St. Ignace and take a day trip by ferry to Mackinac Island. Option to stay another night on Mackinac Island . Day 3 : Drive 2 hours 30 minutes to Soo Locks and Whitefish Point. Stay in Paradise or Tahquamenon Falls. Day 4 : Explore Tahquamenon Falls and stay overnight. Day 5 : Drive 1 and 45 minutes to Kitch-it-Kipi Spring and then another 1 hour to Munising. Day 6 & 7 : Explore Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore. Day 8 : Drive 45 minutes to Marquette. Enjoy the “city life” and stay overnight. Day 9 : Drive 1 and 45 minutes to Bond Falls. Then drive another hour to Houghton (stay overnight). Day 10 & 11 : Drive an hour up the Keweenaw Peninsula. Visit the Jam Pot, Ft. Wilkins State Park, and a waterfall if you are interested. Day 12 & 13 : Drive 2 hours 30 minutes to the Porcupine Mountains. Day 14 : Drive ~4 hours to Green Bay for your departure flight (stay overnight if necessary).

If you plan to camp in the Michigan State Parks like we did, make reservations in advance . Summer is the peak season for camping and these spots will be booked out. We checked regularly for cancelations and managed to secure anywhere from two to five nights at the state parks.

If you don’t want to have to check for cancelations constantly, you can let Arvie book your spot for you. Arvie is an online RV camping booking tool that allows you to search and book spots at thousands of campgrounds across the country. If there is no availability, you can create a sold-out search (SOS) with your desired dates, camping preferences, and rig size.

If something pops up that meets that criteria Arvie will automatically book it for you! This is a LIFESAVER for summer Michigan Upper Peninsula RV camping.

You’ll also need to purchase a Recreation Pass to camp at any Michigan State Park. For non-Michigan residents, the fee is $40 annually or $11 daily (including entrance to the State Park that day). If you camp for four nights or more in a state park, paying the annual fee is the more cost-effective option . It also means you won’t have to pay the day-pass fees at the state parks.

The Recreation Pass cannot be purchased online and must be done at one of the registration offices at the State Parks.

Starting Your Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip

For the sake of this guide, we’re going to start this road trip itinerary in the U.P. rather than from the airport. Since there are multiple options to fly into, this allows you to choose the best starting point for you while sharing what the U.P. has to offer here.

The official start of the Upper Peninsula is in St. Ignace which is the town after crossing the Mackinac Bridge (pronounced Mack-i-naw). This 5-mile-long bridge is the main way to reach the remote area of Michigan’s UP. There is a toll to cross the bridge, which at the start of 2024 was $5.00 per axle.

You’ll want to stay a night in St. Ignace so you can take the ferry to Mackinac Island. This is the first major destination in Michigan’s U.P. and by far the most popular place to visit on this road trip.

🏨 If you plan ahead, you can book a night on Mackinac Island. However, nightly rates will be $300 – $500+ in peak summer and reservations are usually made months in advance. See the recommended spots to stay in this area below.

Stop 1: Mackinaw Island

Mackinaw Island is a 3.8 square mile island off the shores of the U.P. and the ancestral homeland of the Anishinabek tribe. Home to less than 300 people year round, this island is a picturesque getaway oozing with charm and history.

🚢 There are two ferry options to get to the island, Star Line Mackinac or Shepler’s Ferry . The tickets at the time of the writing are $31 per person roundtrip and take about 30 minutes.

The island does not allow any motorized vehicles (e-bikes included) meaning you can traverse by horse and carriage, bicycle, or walking. There are loads of bike rental places you can rent a bike from, which are paid by the hour or you can bring your own bike on the ferry.

On the island, you can bike the 8-mile loop that takes you along the shores of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan and to popular stops like :

• Arch Rock (in Mackinac Island State Park )
• The Grand Hotel (dress code required)
• Tour Fort Mackinac and/or Fort Holmes

🐢 If you’re riding your bike stop at the Native American  Cultural  Trail  signs which line the 8-mile path. These signs share the history of the Great Lakes tribes and the cultural importance of Mackinaw Island to their people. Mackinaw’s native name, Michilimackinac, translates to “Big or Great Turtle” and is related to their origin story.

If you don’t rent a bike, you can take a historic carriage ride tour which takes you to a few sites on the southern side of the island (near downtown). From there, you can walk downtown. I’ll be honest, we weren’t blown away by downtown (the stench from the horses is strong ). The food on the island was a very standard American diet and expensive. However, we did enjoy our Jamaican meal at Kingston Kitchen .

Other popular things to do in downtown:

• Visit a fudge shop or go shopping.
• Visit the Biddle House (home to the Native American Interpretive Center) once an 1800 fur-trade shop.

Where to stay

Recommended stay length : 1 to 2 nights. RV : Straits State Park Campground Hotel in St. Ignace : Moosewood Inn Hotel on Mackinac Island : Island House Hotel

From St. Ignace, drive 45 minutes north to the city of Sault St. Marie on the border of Canada. This city is home to the Soo Locks , a lock system that has connected the Great Lakes to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans since the mid-1800s. This lock is home to two of the longest lock systems in the entire world!

If you’ve never seen a lock before, it’s a pretty cool engineering feat. We visited the locks in Niagara on the Lake and the Panama Canal , and it never ceases to amaze me. The Soos Lock observation decks (to watch ships go through the lock) are open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm in the summertime. The Visitors Center is open from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.

The Soo Locks is the main attraction here, although this is one of the larger cities in the U.P. If you need to stop for any snacks, toiletries, etc. – Sault St. Marie is the place to do it. 🌮 This is also where you want to stop for lunch. Grab American food at The Wicked Sister or try Jose’s Mexican restaurant . Just make sure to grab food before you start driving. There will be very few options near Whitefish Point.

From there, continue driving about an hour and 45 minutes west, northwest toward Whitefish Point . Whitefish Point is home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum which shares the fascinating history of shipwrecks in Lake Superior and the Great Lakes over the last three to four hundred years.

Whitefish Point is an optional stop. It only adds about 20 to 25 minutes of driving to your final destination so, in our opinion, is well worth it.

🤓 Fun Fact : There are an estimated 6,000 shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, with 550 taking place in Lake Superior.

The lakeshore on Lake Superior is beautiful! If you don’t stop at Whitefish Point to visit the museum or admire the stunning lakeshore, continue to Tahquamenon Falls if you’re camping or Paradise if you’re staying in a hotel, which is your next major stop on this summer Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip.

Stop 3: Tahquamenon Falls

Tahquamenon Falls is one of the top highlights of a Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip. This beautiful State Park is home to the second-largest river south of the Mississippi. The color of the Tahquamenon River is a brown “rootbeer” and flows with serious force.

There are two falls, lower and upper falls which are about a 15-minute walk from each other. You can rent kayaks from the lodge near the Lower Falls or take some of the other scenic trails nearby.

💵 If you have a Michigan Recreation Pass it’s free to enter (see camping tips for more info). If you don’t have the pass and are a non-resident the day fee for Tahquamenon State Park is $10.

We loved the 5 hike to Tahquamenon Brewery. The trail (pictured below) was stunning and had very few people on it. You can hike back the other 5 miles or if preferred, take a paid shuttle that departs from the Brewery back to the Campground throughout the day.

Where to stay and eat

Recommended stay length : 2 nights. RV : Tahquamenon Falls State Park Hotel in Paradise : Moosewood Inn Where to eat in Tahquemenon : Tahquemenon Brewery + Pub (their food was very good) Where to eat in Paradise : Catch of the Day food truck or Wheelhouse Diner & Goatlocker Saloon

Wake up bright and early the next day to start your roughly two-hour drive to Kitch-iti-kipi Springs. Kitch-iti-kipi, or the Big Cold Spring, in Ojibwe, is the largest freshwater spring in Michigan. Roughly 10,000 gallons of water comes out of the spring every minute!

You can take a hand-propelled raft over the spring which is controlled on a pully system. It takes about 20 minutes to go out and back, and while it doesn’t seem like much it’s a must-do on this road trip.

💵 If you have a Michigan Recreation Pass it’s free to enter (see camping tips for more info). If you don’t have the pass and are a non-resident the day fee is $10.

If you’re hungry after visiting Kitch-iti-kipi grab some food at Big Spring Tavern which is just around the corner from the spring. If you can wait an hour, continue north toward Munising which has a lot more dining options.

Stop 5: Munising and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The next stop on this summer Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip is Munising, the town closest to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We’ve traveled to a lot of National Parks, monuments, and lakeshores now in our 6 years of full-time travel and Pictured Rocks National Park remains one of our top 5 favorite parks in the USA.

This National Lakeshore is home to colorful cliffs, rock arches, gorgeous waterfalls and dense forest all perfectly positioned on the striking shores of Lake Superior. The color of the water near the shore is out of this world stunning!

This park is a part of the National Park system and requires you to have a National Park Pass to enter or you can pay a daily entry fee. You can hike, take a kayak tour, or go on a glass-bottom boat tour (and see a shipwreck).

We recommend staying 2 nights here so you can explore by boat and land. The Chapel Loop and Mosquito Falls hike along the shore is a fantastic full-day activity. It’s a long trail, just under 11 miles round trip but worth it!

After you hike or kayak make sure you grab a pastie! This UP specialty comes from the mining days with origins in Cornwall, UK. It’s like a potpie stuffed with meat and veggies often served with gravy or ketchup.

Recommended stay length : 2 to 3 nights. RV : Bay Furnace Campground (in the National Lake Shore) or Munising Tourist Park Hotel recommendations in Munising : Holiday Inn Munising (IHG Hotel) Where to eat : Cap’n Ron’s Fish ‘N’ Chips and Muldoon’s Pasties & Gifts

Stop 6: Marquette

Marquette is a college town home to Northern Michigan University. It’s one of the more populated cities in the area, and your best shot at getting a “big city” meal. We loved stopping here for a day after all of the outdoor activities we did in Pictured Rock National Lakeshore. The plus side is that it’s only a 45-minute drive from Munising.

Our main goal in visiting was to jump off the rocks at Presque Isle Park . This park is a popular swimming spot and hang out in the summer months. You’ll find picnic tables, scenic overlooks, walking trails, and loads of people having a barbecue or picnic here.

Recommended stay length : 1 night. RV : Marquette Tourist Park Hotel in Marquette : Superior Stay Hotel Where to eat : Lagniappe Cajun Creole , Delft Bistro , or Steinhaus

Your next stop will be to Bond Falls. This is a stunning waterfall just under 2 hours west of Marquette. We camped at the Bond Falls West campground nearby which is a FREE dispersed camping spot. It was one of our favorite stops. There was something so tranquil about this camping site which was a 15-minute walk to the waterfalls and connected to a pristine lake.

If you’re not in an RV or camping on this trip, your stop at Bond Falls will last around 30 minutes before you continue onward. It’s another hour and fifteen-minute drive to Houghton.

⏰ If you prefer to skip Bond Falls and head directly to Houghton it’s only a 2-hour drive total.

Stop 8: Keweenaw Peninsula and Copper Harbor

Houghton and Hancock is the start of the Keweenaw Peninsula. This is the northernmost of Michigan’s UP and one of the snowiest places in the United States. This peninsula was popular for its copper production in the mid-1800s with several important mining towns.

Houghton is one of the largest mining towns in this region where you can learn about Michigan’s mining history on a Quincy Mining Tour . This tour takes you into the mine on the Cog Tram to the entrance of level 7. It costs $35 for adults and takes just over 2 hours.

If you plan to visit Isle Royal National Park (one of the least visited National Parks in the 50 states but stunning) this is where you’ll take the seaplane or ferry.

🍻If you’re into beer, stop at Keweenaw Brewing Company in Houghton. We had lunch here and really enjoyed it. Another fun lunch spot is Petersons Fish Market .

Continue driving an hour north to Copper Harbor. Located at the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula this area is a super remote getaway on the edge of Lake Superior. We loved this section of the UP because it was remote, pristine, picturesque, and full of history.

Key stops along the peninsula:

• Ft. Wilkins State Park (Historic forts and mines from the 1800s you can visit. It also has camping)
• The Jam Pot in Eagle Harbor (Catholic Monastery that sells baked goods and homemade wild-berry jams)
• Hungarian Falls

Ft. Wilkins Historic Fort is a must for history buffs. This Military Fort was put in place during the 1800s copper run to “protect” the miners from the indigenous who lived there.

Another unique stop along this peninsula is the Jam Pot. This is a Catholic Byzantine Monastery that supports itself by making freshly baked goods (free of sugars and unnecessary ingredients) and selling their homemade wild-berry jams.

The line was long (we had to wait 30 minutes to get in) but the baked goods and jams were worth it!

Recommended stay length : 2 nights. RV camping near Houghton Hancock : McClain State Park RV camping in Copper Harbor : Ft. Wilkins State Park Hotel in Houghton Hancock : The Country Inn & Suites by Radison Hotel in Copper Harbor : Dapple Gray Bed & Breakfast

Your last stop on this Upper Peninsula summer road trip itinerary is The Porcupine Mountain Wilderness area. It’s just over a two-hour drive to the park which is lovingly called “The Porkies” by locals. This epic landscape is over 60,000 acres of unspoiled nature and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

⏰ The park is so large it lies in two different time zones and borders the Wisconsin state line.

You haven’t visited the Porkies without hiking. Popular trails to do in the Porcupine Mountains are the short 2-mile roundtrip walk to Lake of the Clouds , the 2.3 boardwalk-lined loop on Presque Isle , or the longer 8.4-mile Escarpment Trail .

Fun activity : Bring a blacklight with you to search for “Yooperlite” rocks. These fluorescent sodalite rocks will glow in the dark and are commonly found along the Keweenaw Peninsula and the shores of Lake Superior.

Recommended stay length : 2 nights. RV : Union Bay Campground Hotel in Ontonagon : AmericInn by Wyndham Where to eat : Sly’s Cafe or The Squeeze on Main

While it’s hard to believe, you’ve finished your summer Michigan Upper Peninsula road trip! Now, you begin your journey to your departing airport. If you’re following this guide, is in Green Bay about a four-hour drive from the Porkies.

Hopefully, this travel guide helped plan your Upper Peninsula road trip. If so, let me know in the comments below.

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About Liz Brumer-Smith

One-half of the Eat See RV team. I'm the face you'll find in most videos and the main author of our blog. If I'm not vlogging or writing you can probably find me reading a good book, hanging with friends and family, relaxing near water, eating something tasty, or savoring kitty cuddles.

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Destinations , Road Trips , Upper Peninsula · September 4, 2020

Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary: 5 Days

Ready for a road trip that is sure to impress? One that includes breathtaking views, easy drives through the untouched wilderness, random stops, and a whole lot of adventure? This is exactly what you need and I have the perfect Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary for a 5-day trip.

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Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary

The U.P, one-third of Michigan, is a BIG area and there is much to explore. It would take the better part of two weeks (or more) to get the entire U.P. done—unless you prefer to be driving most of your trip! So if you only have a week or less, it’s best to break it down into multiple trips.

This post will take you through the northern side of the U.P. and cover from Munising to Whitefish Point.

Couple things to note:.

• Day One starts in Munising, Michigan , and includes adventure starting in the morning/early afternoon. Depending on where you’re coming from, you may need a driving day on Day Zero!
• Coming from the other side? Easy peasy, just reverse it!
• Already have things you want to do? GREAT! Use this itinerary as a guide for more ideas.
• This TRTL pillow is fantastic for road trips! It keeps your head and neck in the perfect position (unlike those squishy U-shaped ones!) Plus, super soft and adjustable.

5-DAY Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary

DAY ONE: Munising, Michigan

The Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary starts off with what most road trips do—hopping in the car! Make your way through the Upper Peninsula and enjoy the views. This isn’t your average drive!

Get started as early as you can and plan to be in Munising before noon . This will ensure you have plenty of time to check a few Munising things off your list.

You only have about 3,247 options. Okay, a little extreme. But seriously, scope out a waterfall or two on your way in and check them out! Great options right near Munising are Wagner Falls, Alger Falls, or Munising Falls.

This is a great guide that lays out all of the waterfalls to explore. Though I didn’t schedule these in, they are a perfect way to use any extra time throughout your road trip.

Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise

This will be one of the highlights of your trip. Book your tickets in advance. Many days do sell out. Tickets are $38-45 and the views will blow you away. If there was ever a MUST DO, it’s the Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise .

How long does it take? You’ll need to dedicate 3-4 hours for the cruise. Seating is first-come, first-serve and you can line up as early as an hour beforehand to get the best seat.

The cruise itself lasts about 2.5 hours. And there is also a great (super affordable!) gift shop to check out and buy souvenirs. For the full details, including which cruise to choose, check out Two Days in Munising, Michigan .

After the cruise, spend some time strolling around downtown Munising. There are plenty of gift stores and art shops. And if shopping isn’t your thing, or you want to stay outdoors, find a different waterfall to chase from the guide above!

Muldoon’s Pasties & Gifts

You have to eat a pasty while you’re on your Upper Peninsula road trip! Stop in Muldoon’s for one of the best. What’s a pasty, you ask? First off, order a “pas-tee,” not a “pae-stee.”

And what it is, is basically a chicken pot pie with a little variation. Homemade crust encloses beef (or chicken or vegetable) with potatoes, carrots, and rutabaga. It is a U.P. delicacy so eat one and tell your friends! And don’t forget the ketchup.

Note: there are two locations in Munising, less than a mile apart. The original is right off M-28., and the second location (same recipe, less busy) is on Elm Ave.

Party, Beach, Chill

You’re on vacation! Enjoy your night wherever you’re staying, or else head to Sand Point Beach for sunset. Whatever you do, rest your legs. Another large day is ahead…

DAY TWO: Munising, Michigan

Breakfast—falling rock cafe and bookstore.

Stop in Falling Rock Cafe and Bookstore , a cute coffee shop to get the day started. Grab a breakfast burrito, breakfast sandwich, one of their smoked whitefish bagels, and/or a latte.

Sip your coffee and browse the book options as you wait for your food. It’s a cute, quaint little shop—and who can pass that up?!

Note: it was really busy the day we were here so plan on a solid hour to be safe.

Miners Castle Overlook

Time to explore! Start with one of Munising’s most famous landmarks and a picture that’s worth a thousand words. Don’t miss this one. It doesn’t take much time and the view totally outweighs the effort to see it.

It’s about 15 minutes from downtown Munising. Take E. Munising Ave (H-28) for about 5 miles and take a left on Miners Castle Rd. Another 5 miles north and you’ll come up to the huge parking lot.

How long does it take? Once there, if you only check out the Upper Overlook (left picture), you’ll honestly be here for like 15 minutes. If you take about a half-mile hike to the Lower Outlook (right), it will be more like 45 minutes to an hour depending on how much time you spend taking in the views. Do both if you can!

Hike Chapel Basin Loop

Okay, I already said MUST DO in all caps and I feel like you can’t be throwing those out every time you enjoy something. But really, I LOVED this hike and strongly encourage you to give it a go.

One of my favorite hikes to date!

I’d aim to be here by NOON. Keep in mind that if you’re not here in the morning, the parking lot will be full and you’ll be parking farther down along the path.

What You’ll See : it’s a well-groomed trail that, 1.2 miles in. comes upon a big waterfall— Chapel Falls . This is a great stop and burst of energy but keep going. Just shy of 2 additional miles, you will come to one of the most interesting and breathtaking landmarks the U.P. has to offer— Chapel Rock . An overhanging rock above the turquoise blue waters with a tree coming out of it. Strange. Cool. Picturesque. Right near the rock is Chapel Beach , one of the most beautiful places to lay back and enjoy the day.

How long does it take? You’re going to need at least 3 hours to hit Chapel Falls, Rock, and Beach. And I would strongly recommend leaving more like 4-5 hours to include some time enjoying the sun, sand, and water. Speaking of water, don’t forget your own!

I am LOVING this water bottle right now. It keeps ice for an entire day (even the hot ones!) and it’s perfect for decorating with stickers from your travels.

It’s 3.1 miles to your destination (beach), making it 6.2 miles round trip. The ground is, for the most part, flat so you can go at a pretty good pace. For more information, tips, and tricks, read Two Days in Munising, Michigan.

Chapel Basin Loop can take up the whole day if you’d like! And I’d recommend it. But if you’re not a “stop and smell the roses type” and have some extra time, check out another waterfall in the area.

Miners Falls: This is a popular one that you can hit right after Miners Castle Overlook—swing in as you drive back out (south) on Miners Castle Rd. You will see a sign. Or else stop in on your way back to town after your Chapel Basin Loop hike.

These first two days of the Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary are pretty packed. And this restaurant is quick, easy, and delicious after a couple of long days of exploring. Order at the counter and either find a table or take it to go! Burgers and Whitefish are both great options and do not miss out on the tots. (And they do serve alcohol…I’m sure you’re ready.)

Not feeling burgers? If you want pizza, head to Pictured Rocks Pizza . Or hit Shooters Firehouse Brewpub for a bar scene to reward yourself with a couple of drinks.

DAY THREE: Grand Marais, Michigan

You could spend a lot more days in Munising, Michigan and not run out of places to see and good food to eat. But, this Upper Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary is only 5 days long so we have to keep it moving. And next up is my favorite place of them all. A little lesser-known, but full of magic, somehow work Grand Marais, Michigan into your adventure—even as a quick stop!

The trek from Munising to Grand Marais, Michigan is one of the most lovely, relaxing drives you can make—forests, untouched land, and overlooks to stretch your legs and take in the views of Lake Superior.

Grab a quick breakfast in Munising ( Bay Furnace Bagels is a good choice) and be on your way. TIP: Google Maps is going to suggest M-28/M-77 as the fastest route.

Adjust your map to make sure you drive on H-58 until you get there to stay on the lakeside. It is well worth an extra 4 minutes! The drive straight there takes an hour, but plan for it to take at least 2 hours with a couple of scenic stops.

Au sable light station

About 12 miles from Grand Marais, you will get to Au Sable Point where there is a picturesque lighthouse. It is a 1.5-mile walk (3-mile roundtrip) to get to the lighthouse. We did skip this and there’s a lot of good beer in Grand Marais…so perhaps keep it moving. Up to you!

This was a pretty cool stop. And it’s short (quarter-mile walk)—unless you want to slide down the sand, which is going to result in an awesome story and about an hour of your time.

Originally, it was a chute that loggers used to move logs from the top of the dunes down to Lake Superior to be loaded onto boats for transport. No longer a thing but can be a place you’ll never forget. Maybe I’ll do it next time…

When it comes to planning, let this drive happen as it may. There are overlooks and rest stops along the way. Stop when you want! You really can’t go wrong. Like I said, plan for it to be at least 2 hours.

And yes, I promise this picture is Michigan!

Sable Falls

This is another spot that is going to give great views without a whole lot of effort! Only .5 miles (including 168 steps), this trail is good for all skill levels and can be done quickly. Stop here on your way into town.

How long does it take? You only need about 30 minutes unless you plan to wander around and explore.

Agate Beach

One of my very favorite beaches. Anywhere! Make sure to stop here for a couple of afternoon hours and enjoy the sun and sand. Bring a couple of towels and/chairs, and take a walk down the beach. There are tons of beautiful rocks and if you’re lucky, you can find an agate.

Grand Marais Shops

Pop into a couple of shops and grab souvenirs. Whether you want t-shirts, art, jewelry, smoked fish, fudge, outdoor gear, and/or antiques, the Grand Marais Lake Avenue block has you covered.

The Lakes Gift Shop was my favorite with tons of artwork, handcrafted mugs, and local jams and sauces. And a block and a half away, they own The World’s Smallest Gift Shop which is adorable and easy shopping!

Lake Superior Brewing Company

All right, your touristy things are checked off and it’s time for a beer. Head up from the beach to Lake Superior Brewing Company . They have a craft beer list, along with other choices, and outdoor seating. If you’re hungry, I’d go with their pizza.

Note: if you prefer breweries to bars, flip this with the next place and spend more time at the second. Make sure to check out both though!

Grand Marais Tavern

This was one of my favorite parts of Grand Marais, Michigan, and would certainly be my top recommendation on where to eat dinner. An awesome restaurant/bar with lake views, a modern-wood interior, great music playing, and some of the best whitefish I have ever had!

Grab dinner and get your party on! But don’t lose track of time. There is one more stop before the sun goes down…

Yep, adding it again because you cannot miss the sunset here. Google what time it’s going to go down so you can get here in time to relax and watch the sun melt behind the lake. It truly is incredible and I cannot recommend it enough. Bonus: stop at the Bayshore Market on your way back down and grab a beer or Whiteclaw.

For EVERYTHING you need to know, read One Day in Grand Marais, Michigan.

DAY FOUR: Paradise, Michigan

The morning part of day four is flexible. I don’t want to jam-pack every day as there needs to be room for spontaneity! Find something random. Sleep in. You do you! But here are some suggestions.

Breakfast in GM

The sleepy town of Grand Marais doesn’t really get moving until around 11:00 AM-12:00 PM. The breakfast options are slim so don’t plan on a big meal. Grab some coffee and a small snack and there are great places to eat in Paradise!

If you have your own boat, make sure to get out on the water if it’s a calm day. It’s magical. Either plug it is where my first Agate Beach suggestion was, or save it for the morning of Day Four. Cruise around the bay and with any luck you’ll be able to hit the big Lake Superior waters to cruise around and find a nearly private beach somewhere.

Time to make your way to Paradise—literally! Again, your Google Maps is going to give you the shortest way which is M-77 S to M-123 N. This is not along the lakeshore but that’s not as necessary in this case as it is from Munising to Grand Marais, so take your pick!

Once you get to Paradise, stop for a snack or light lunch if you need one. Try Paradise Pizza Factory or French Coast Cafe. From here, you have just 15 minutes to your next destination.

Whitefish Point

Head all the way up to the northernmost point on the east side of the Upper Peninsula. It is beautiful! And so cool to think about where you are on the map.

It is known as the graveyard of the Great Lakes because more vessels have been lost here than any other part of Lake Superior. Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and the Whitefish Point Lighthouse for all of the history and facts. They also have a cute gift shop.

The tourist traps are not what had me so in love with Whitefish Point though. The best part was walking to the beach and heading out to the very tip. It’s gorgeous to look out at the never-ending Lake Superior and there are a million rocks to hunt. If you make it up here, make sure to do this.

The Inn Gastropub and Restaurant

One of the most popular spots to eat in Paradise, Michigan. The Inn makes everything, down to the ketchup, in-house! If you want a fresh salad, sandwich, or burger, here is your spot.

DAY FIVE: Paradise, Michigan

Find somewhere to get a bite to eat and fuel up for a day at Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Berry Patch Gifts, Bakery & Restaurant is a great option.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

One of the U.P.’s most popular destinations, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is 52,000 acres stretching over 13 miles of wilderness. 

Come to the park for calm and quiet or wet and wild – it’s up to you!  Open year-round, the beauty of this place is always available. And the two main attractions, Lower and Upper Falls, make for a great experience.

It’s $9 for a park pass and you can either hike (about 9 miles round-trip) or drive (whew!) from Lower to Upper Falls. Think of Upper Falls as your typical hike with beautiful views. And think of Lower Falls as an adventure where you’re sure to get wet! You can’t miss swimming in the falls.

How long does it take? Plan to be here for 3 hours at the minimum. This can be an entire day if you’d like it to be! That said, as far as hiking goes, both Upper and Lower Falls can be less than a mile if you want to do them quick. The added time is for longer hikes and swimming—recommended!

For ALL of the details (I mean tons) then read A Day in Paradise, Michigan and you will be set.

Brown Fisheries Fish House

For some of the freshest whitefish on the planet, the Fish House stop needs to be on your list. Caught that morning in the largest freshwater lake, this fish will not disappoint and is a true Upper Peninsula staple.

Stop in for a whitefish sandwich or platter. If you’re a seafood fan, I promise you will love it. (P.S. I have a full list: Where to Eat Whitefish in the Upper Peninsula .)

Note: due to COVID-19, this place is takeout only. Call (906-492-3901) when you get there and it only takes about 7 minutes. Seriously. Comes out piping hot, too!

Relax or Drive

Either stick around Paradise for another night or head back in the direction you came from. If you want to continue down the southern side, head to Sault  Ste. Marie. Or if you are going back east, make a stop in Newberry, Michigan.

You will love a road trip through the U.P. I left this itinerary with some room for your own ideas and spontaneous adventure. Go with the flow—you are sure to have an excellent time. If you want more information on any of these areas, click here for all of my Upper Peninsula guides .

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6 Days of Farmstands and National Lakeshores in Northern Michigan

Cliffside hikes, victorian homes, and rhubarb crumble..

Everyone knows that person who spends weeks sniffing around travel blogs, going deep into Tripadvisor rabbit holes, collecting Google docs from friends of friends, and creating  A Beautiful Mind –style spreadsheets to come up with the best  vacations  and itineraries possible. In this recurring series, we find those people who’ve done all the work for you and have them walk us through a particularly wonderful, especially well-thought-out vacation they took that you can actually steal.

I live in New Orleans, but because I married a Minneapolitan, we have a long-standing tradition of visiting my husband’s family in the Twin Cities and then renting a cabin in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border. We like to go in late May — it’s already gotten hot in New Orleans, but in Minnesota, the wildflowers are in bloom, the lakes are frigid, and we can build fires. But this year, we decided to mix it up and visit northern Michigan instead. We’d heard good things, specifically from Meghan McEwen, who runs the marvelous In Hand Substack, a treasure trove of secrets celebrating craft, travel , and hotels. She sometimes rents out her charming 1900s farmhouse in the orchard-filled Leelanau Peninsula. I’d read about the house’s renovation years ago, in Meghan’s previous travel blog, Designtripper, and I always had it in the back of my mind as this really special place. Thankfully, it worked out that we could stop over for a couple of nights in the middle of the trip. She gave us a bunch of recommendations for where to eat, but it’s such a charming area, you also come across incredible places without even meaning to. Here’s how we spent six days tree-climbing, admiring historic homes, and hiking the trillium-studded lakeshore.

Day 1: Green Bay to Munising

12 p.m.: fuel up with midwestern-style pizza.

Took a little plane from Minneapolis to Green Bay and picked up our rental car. We had a lunch of tavern pizza at old-school joint Cranky Pat’s ( 709 Bellevue St .). This is a midwestern style of pizza where the crust is so thin it’s almost a cracker. They get it that way by putting the dough two turns through what looks like an oversize pasta roller. My older son cadged $1 out of us for the claw machine and actually won something! A stuffed penguin. Everyone clapped.

1 p.m.: Make a pit stop for midday ice cream

The road to Munising follows the coast of Lake Michigan, goes through the Escanaba River State Forest, and ends at Lake Superior. There are lots of pleasant-looking, modest cabins alongside the picturesque road that follows the lake. On the way, we stopped for great local ice cream at Barn on the Bay ( 7272 US2 & 41 & M-35). I had the rhubarb-crumble ice cream, and my younger son tried a psychedelic-colored flavor that stained his mouth for hours, so everyone was happy.

5 p.m.: Have a smorgasbord dinner while watching the sunset

As a hotel nerd, I enjoy going down deep rabbit holes looking for special places to stay, but sometimes, there’s just a Hampton Inn ( 461 South Lakeshore Blvd .). This one was right on the lake, with expansive blue views and a huge heated pool no one but us was using. For dinner, we stopped by old-school smokehouse Matson’s Fisheries ( 1336 Commercial St. ) to pick up an array of smoked-fish products, crackers, and a six-pack of local beer at the “party store” (what they call the liquor store) and went to a beach called Sand Point for a sunset picnic. It was gorgeous and we were the only ones there, probably because of the million mosquitos.

Day 2: Munising to Suttons Bay

10 a.m.: hike a national lakeshore.

We made a stop at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , where the views were so pretty we decided to take a walk. It was a landscape I was not expecting in Michigan: fairy carpets of white trillium in bloom, dramatic red-tinged sedimentary cliffs a hundred feet above the water, and multiple waterfalls.

12 p.m.: Pick up a beef-and-potato-stuffed pastie

Driving around this area, you see lots of roadside places advertising pasties, hand pies filled with meat and vegetables. For lunch, we stopped at Lehto’s (open since 1947) ( 626 N. State St. ), where the only thing for sale is pasties — it seemed like the authoritative place. The ones we got were filled with beef, potatoes, onion, and rutabaga. Spoiler alert: not that delicious.

2 p.m.: Tour around the historic houses of Petoskey

We drove across the Mackinac Bridge and discovered the lakefront town of Petoskey, which has hundreds of well-preserved Victorian homes. This place was a revelation! The town is hilly, so there are terrific views even fairly far away from the lake. House after house had fantastic turrets, ornate gables, gorgeous bay windows, and wildflower gardens. My hotel colleague, Michigander Mary Beth Bennett, just purchased the Terrace Inn ( 1549 Glendale Ave. ) there, so we peeked in. It has a beautiful dining room from the turn of the last century and a super-pleasant flower-filled terrace with roses. I can’t wait to see what she does with it.

4 p.m.: Pull over for a beachfront playground

Brett had to make a work call, so we took a break in Traverse City, where the kids played in the sand at Clinch Park on the lakefront while we watched a group of teenagers horse around in the icy water, shouting and splashing. I sat in one of the oversize Adirondack chairs provided by the park and passed a pleasant hour with my feet in the water.

5 p.m.: Settle in at the farmhouse

Got to the farmhouse we had rented on the Leelanau Peninsula, owned by my friend Meghan McEwen. The house is decorated with Shaker furniture and great quilts and has so many thoughtful touches — real beeswax candlesticks, tea from herbs grown in the garden, hand-thrown mugs to drink it out of, tons of board games, and trees for climbing. While we unpacked, the kids boomeranged between the tree swing and the fields.

7 p.m.: Melt Michigan-made raclette alfresco

We ate dinner in the garden and made raclette with the terrific local Leelanau cheese, some tiny new potatoes, and grilled asparagus, which was abundantly in season and for sale at roadside stands all over.

9 a.m.: Hang out at the farm

Went for breakfast at 9 Bean Rows ( 9000 E Duck Lake Rd., Suttons Bay ), a cute bakery–slash–pizza place–slash–farm that Meghan had recommended, and spent the day chilling at the house. This house was so fabulous, like what you hope Airbnb is going to be but never is. It’s very much lived in, but in a gorgeous, luxuriously casual way. Someone in that house is into Russian literature, so I picked up a Chekhov short story one night instead of reading my book.

The bedrooms are small with just a wooden bed and a nice quilt, but that’s all you need. We opened all the windows; a nice breeze was going through the house, and the smell of the lilac was wafting in. I felt like I could do my own thing inside, but still hear the kids having fun outside, which was bliss. We live in a city house. When they’re outside, they’re on a sidewalk. If they’re inside, we’re all on top of each other. This was nice.

We played with a bunch of their board games too. Our kids are the same age as Meghan’s and made themselves at home. We played a couple of rounds of Settlers of Catan Junior . Our younger son is just getting into board games, and this felt like the first time he was fully engaging.

7 p.m.: Dine on whitefish escabeche

For dinner, we went to Farm Club ( 10051 Lake Leelanau Dr. ), a striking modern structure serving food grown in the fields around it. We ate beans in broth, whitefish escabeche, and the farm board with a bunch of different crudités and dips. It was a wholesome vibe; the local running club was having post-run beers, and there were lots of families. After we ate, our kids ran off to play with a gaggle of other kids, so dessert was chill.

10 p.m.: Wind down with a game of cards

The days up north are so long in June that we drove home late to a gorgeous sunset, a novelty for us in the tropics. After the kids went to bed, Brett and I played cribbage, drank a few Michigan UPAs (Upper Peninsula Ales), and listened to records. The house had a couple of crates we had fun flipping through. There was some Detroit-specific stuff, like a J Dilla record called Donuts . We also played an old record by Balka Sound, a Congolese band, and an Arthur Russell record called World of Echo .

9 a.m.: Grab croissants before hitting the trail

Breakfast at 9 Bean again, then I looked up a nearby hike on AllTrails , which directed us to the Manitou Lookout, a pleasant, upwardly sloping walk through the forest to great views over Lake Michigan. We hiked for about an hour and a half. In late spring, the trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the ground gets plenty of sun and the wildflowers are sensational.

12 p.m.: Nap, then pick some flowers

In the afternoon, I took a nap with a book on my chest — how I really know I’m on vacation — and did laundry, mainly because I was excited to hang it on the line outside, a total fetish for a city girl like me. I also made some giant bouquets with the lilac that was blooming in profusion in the driveway.

7 p.m.: Pick up eggs and veggies from the farmstand

We found a terrific farmstand with a little honor box and Xeroxed recipe suggestions, then picked up supplies for dinner. Brett grilled asparagus and made a frittata with some local eggs, and I made a rhubarb crumble while the kids played Battleship . We sat on the porch rocking chairs and watched the moon rise.

Day 5: Suttons Bay to Saugatuck

9 a.m.: snack on leftovers before heading out.

Ate the remaining rhubarb crumble for breakfast, with what was left of the Leelanau fromage blanc, then packed up and headed south.

11 a.m.: Slide down sand dunes

We stopped at Sleeping Bear Dunes , miles of gigantic scalable sand dunes that we scrambled up and down, with a lake at the end if you make it that far, which we didn’t. While I was blithely flying down a dune, arms outstretched, Sound of Music –style, my phone flopped out of my pocket, something I only realized once we had driven several miles and a Good Samaritan called Brett’s phone with mine to tell us about it. Lucky break!

5 p.m.: Order trout cakes for dinner

Once reunited, we kept driving til Saugatuck, where we had fine cocktails and trout cakes at Pennyroyal Cafe (3319 Blue Star Hwy.) , our rousing game of restaurant Uno marred only slightly by our older son’s explosive nosebleed. There are some great-looking hotels in Saugatuck, including the Lake Shore Resort and the Saugatuck Retro Resort , but they required a commitment of several nights and we only had one, so we stayed at a chain hotel.

Day 6: Saugatuck to Detroit

8 a.m.: stroll the farmers’ market.

In the morning, we played at the hotel pool and its video arcade, then made it to Grand Rapids in time to check out the city’s vibrant farmers’ market, chock-a-block with heaping piles of (more) asparagus. The Heritage Hill neighborhood nearby had some really pretty houses and a lovely vibe. It reminded me of Jamaica Plain in Boston or Linden Hills in Minneapolis. Again with the well-tended gardens!

11 a.m.: Wander around a botanical garden

We spent the afternoon at the Frederik Meijer Gardens , a sprawling assemblage of horticulture and botanical gardens filled with sculptures funded by the deep pockets of the DeVos family. My favorite was the glass-roofed conservatory filled with carnivorous plants and the oversize marble faces sculpted by Jaume Plensa.

7 p.m.: Have a final meal before heading home

Stopped for an early dinner at Saffron De Twah in Detroit ( 7636 Gratiot Ave. ) for the harissa potatoes, Moroccan chicken sandwich, and couscous, and then flew home.

Nathalie’s Northern Michigan Road Trip Packing List

A game my family loves. Young kids can play it, it’s entertaining for adults, and the tiles click pleasantly in your fingers.

Baseball mitts and baseball so we can play catch anywhere.

We pretty much take this anytime we travel.

We’re reading it to the kids at night.

This brand makes the dress in the same cut but in many different patterns. It’s become my work uniform — I have seven of them now — and they’re also nice for traveling. They work for a walk, but the patterns are interesting enough that they feel dressy enough for going out to dinner, too.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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9 prettiest places to visit in Upper Peninsula Michigan ⚓ Circle the UP road trip ⚓ Great Lakes Michigan travel blog

Michigander here!

Proud to bring you the prettiest places to visit in the Upper Peninsula with some of the best views that you will find in all of Michigan!

The State of Michigan’s slogan is “Pure Michigan” and you can get plenty of that with a trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan aka a trip to the UP!

This is remote Michigan!

I did a 2-week road trip around the Upper Peninsula, and here are things to know about!

This UP road trip route will start from the Mackinac Bridge, which is the eastern Upper Peninsula , so it can work in this order when you’re coming from the Mackinac Bridge and the Lower Peninsula of Michigan.

If you’re driving to the UP from the Wisconsin side, which is the western Upper Peninsula , the Porcupine Mountains can be your first stop.

No matter which direction you drive, you can make many scenic stops!

I’ve also included ideas for where to stay, including hotels and campgrounds.

Here is your quick list of hotels, and you can read the reviews at partner website booking.com .

• St Ignace: Moosewood Inn or Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront
• Munising: The Beach Inn Motel or Scotty’s Motel
• If you’ll be in Marquette for a few days: Staybridge Suites Marquette (IHG)
• Keweenaw Peninsula: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Houghton or AmericInn by Wyndham in Calumet
• Ontonagon: Ontonagon home with firepit
• Manistique: Comfort Inn

1. St Ignace and Mackinac Bridge area

St Ignace is the city you’ll pass through right after you drive across the Mackinac Bridge.

Straits State Park is located near the Mackinac Bridge.

See more about things to do in St Ignace .

If you’re limited on time, then you can keep driving north.

But before really starting to drive north, make a slight detour to the west and take US-2 aka Lake Michigan Scenic Highway for a small part so you can drive directly along the lake.

Make a stop (safely!) and get out of the car to walk along the top of small sand dunes and the beach.

Also if you want to make a detour to the next destination, you can go to the Soo Locks , which is a narrow water crossing where massive cargo ships go through. This is considered an engineering feat. (Observation deck closed in summer 2020 due to health safety reasons, but you can still see it from ground level.)

Where to stay in St Ignace: Moosewood Inn or Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront

Camping in the UP with Mackinac Bridge views: Straits State Park campground

2. Whitefish Point

Now you can make your way up to what’s been called the “Graveyard of the Great Lakes” or the “Graveyard of Lake Superior.”

It’s said that it gets this name because of the MANY shipwrecks that occurred right around here.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is located here, and there is a lighthouse here too.

You can also go for a long walk on the beach in search of colorful rocks!

See more about Whitefish Point .

After your visit to Whitefish Point, you may also be interested in Crisp Point or Vermilion Point along the shores of Lake Superior!

3. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

You’ll have passed the turn-off for Tahquamenon Falls on your way up to Whitefish Point so you’re coming back down south a little bit.

These waterfalls are the most popular waterfalls in Michigan.

The Upper Falls are the best for viewing, and the Lower Falls are the best if you want to get up close and personal with the waterfalls and wade a bit in the Tahquamenon River that feeds the waterfalls. You can take a boat across the river to a small island!

See more about things to do in Tahquemenon Falls State Park .

Camping in the UP near Tahquamenon Falls: Tahquamenon Falls State Park campground and Andrus Lake State Forest campground .

As you drive to the west from Tahquamenon Falls, you’ll want to stick to the numbered roads (county/state/government roads) so you won’t end up on the real backroads of the UP! (These are backroads that you don’t want to end up on!)

Even worse, you don’t want to get stuck in sand on Rabbit Patch Road like a bunch of other tourists. For example if you decide to go from Tahquamenon Falls to Muskallonge Lake State Park campground .

When I arrived at Muskallonge Lake, the state park worker there said a ton of people had been rescued from there! aka needed a tow truck to get them out! $$$ This google maps fail is real! Read the comments on youtube.

If you can’t see the Upper Peninsula backroads video above, you can watch it on youtube .

PLUS… A road that you DO want to take… maybe!

If you’ll be driving from Tahquamenon Falls to Pictured Rocks (next on the list!), you may consider a slight detour to drive along the Grand Marais Truck Trail .

This is a gravel road that goes right along Lake Superior in part, and you’ll find a number of access points where you can walk down to the Lake Superior shoreline!

4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

This is a national park site, and 1 of 3 national lakeshores located in the Great Lakes, which are the only national lakeshores in the United States.

So as a national lakeshore, there are tons of spots for scenic sites! This includes overlooks, waterfalls , and beaches .

Best quick stops include the overlooks of the Miners Castle and Log Slide .

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is best known for its cliffs. You can see the Pictured Rocks cliffs by boat and sea kayak.

You can also see the cliffs by foot by hiking the Chapel Loop Trail.

If you’re after hiking trails that come with Lake Superior views, be sure to see the list of best hikes in Pictured Rocks .

For hiking trails that take you to waterfalls and the Lake Superior coastline, have a look at Sable Falls Trail and Chapel Falls Trail .

Looking for colorful agate stones is a thing on the shores of Lake Superior, and you can do this in Pictured Rocks too.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stretches from Grand Marais on one side to the east, and Munising on the other side to the west.

The big sand dunes are on the Grand Marais side .

The famous Pictured Rocks cliffs and the tree growing on a rock are on the Munising side.

See more about things to do in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore .

Where to stay in Munising: The Beach Inn Motel or Scotty’s Motel

Camping in the Upper Peninsula in/near Pictured Rocks:

• Twelvemile Beach (Lake Superior camping!)
• Hurricane River
• Little Beaver Lake
• List of camping spots in Pictured Rocks (including the basics on backcountry camping)
• Pictured Rocks backcountry campsites
• Bay Furnace campground on Lake Superior
• Au Train Lake campground on an inland lake

5. Marquette

The biggest city in the UP.

But don’t expect too much! It’s no “big city” compared to the top American cities. The downtown is a cute little area. This is also a college town, home to Northern Michigan University. 

If you want to load up on groceries, this can be a place to do so. There’s a Meijer here. (An indication of how “big” Marquette is. ;))

For nature and incredible Lake Superior views…

Don’t miss Sugarloaf Mountain !

And don’t miss Presque Isle Park!

See more about things to do on the drive from Munising to Marquette .

Where to stay in Marquette: Hampton Inn Marquette (waterfront) or Superior Stay Hotel

If you’re staying in Marquette a few days, look at Staybridge Suites Marquette (IHG) .

6. Keweenaw Peninsula

This is more of an “off-beat” UP spot, as not as many people get up to the Keweenaw Peninsula compared to other places in the UP.

Copper Harbor is the city that’s located at the far northern tip of the UP (and far northern tip of Michigan). Houghton is the main city in the Keweenaw Peninsula. This is another college town, where Michigan Tech University is located.

For nature and incredible Lake Superior views, don’t miss Hunters Point Park and Devil’s Washtub . The Brockway Mountain overlook is another good spot.

Copper Harbor is also known for mountain biking trails . You can rent bikes there or bring your own.

The area is also “Copper Country” and there are many spots around the Keweenaw Peninsula where you can learn about the former big copper industry of the region, including through visits to places that are a part of the Keweenaw Heritage Trail and Keweenaw National Historical Park .

See more about the Keweenaw Peninsula .

Where to stay in the Keweenaw Peninsula: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Houghton or AmericInn by Wyndham in Calumet .

Camping in the Upper Peninsula in/near the Keweenaw Peninsula:

• Fort Wilkins Historic State Park campground
• McLain State Park campground
• Baraga State Park campground

7. Porcupine Mountains State Park

Now this is the far western Upper Peninsula , getting close to Wisconsin.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is said to be Michigan’s largest state park. You get hills inland, and Lake Superior on the coastline here.

There are basically 2 sides to the state park.

Union Bay is the side with the visitor center and famous Lake of the Clouds overlook . This is also the side where you can access the Escarpment Trail , considered to be among the best hikes in the Porcupine Mountains.

Presque Isle is the side with the waterfalls. There is a riverside waterfall hike you can do to see a series of waterfalls with the Presque Isle River waterfalls loop .

And as the name of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park indicates, the Porcupine Mountains (aka the Porkies) has miles and miles of wilderness. To go along with that, there are hiking trails that can be a part of your backcountry camping experience. There are both campsites and cabins available that you can hike to, some right along Lake Superior!

See more about things to do in the Porcupine Mountains .

Where to stay in Ontonagon: Ontonagon home with firepit

Camping in the Upper Peninsula in the Porcupine Mountains:

• Union Bay campground (lakefront campsites available)
• Presque Isle campground
• List of camping spots in the Porcupine Mountains (including backcountry campsites and cabins)

On your way to the next place on the list, you might want to go to Bond Falls !

8. Southern peninsulas of the UP

Now to make it a loop of the UP, you can start driving back east, along the southern part of the Upper Peninsula.

You can visit a peninsula on a peninsula!

There are smaller peninsulas you can stop at that are more off-beat UP spots.

There’s the Garden Peninsula, where you can visit Fayette Historic State Park (camping available) for a bit of history on what life around here was like back in the day. Here you can also see a unique geological formation for the region, with some dolomite cliffs that are a part of the Niagara Escarpment .

And there’s also the Stonington Peninsula where you can visit the Peninsula Point Lighthouse.

You can climb up to the top of this lighthouse.

9. Kitch-iti-kipi

And then continuing the drive, near Manistique is one of the most popular spots in all of the UP.

Kitch-iti-kipi is where you can see the bubbling big spring ! You can ride the free observation raft to actually see down below where the water is “bubbling” beneath the sand and entering into the spring.

See more about Kitch-iti-Kipi .

Where to stay in Manistique: Comfort Inn

And then drive back to the Mackinac Bridge to complete your circle of the Upper Peninsula!!!

One more stop on your Michigan road trip

And if you want to make an overnight stop in the Lower Peninsula on your way up north to the UP (or back down south), you might consider Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore !

It might be a slight detour, but you might think it’s worth it!

This is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Where to stay in Traverse City: Bayshore Resort

Camping near Traverse City: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore campgrounds

To start your UP road trip

Now going back to the start! Before you make it to the Upper Peninsula…

If you’re driving up from the south in Michigan and looking for a stop just before you cross over to the UP, then make a stop at either Wawatam Park (Lake Huron side) or McGulpin Point (Lake Michigan side, picture below) so you can have views of the Mackinac Bridge from the Lower Peninsula!

And then you will drive across the Mackinac Bridge to the Upper Peninsula!!

Welcome to the UP!!!

What is the prettiest part of the Upper Peninsula?

The prettiest parts of the Upper Peninsula include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park , the Keweenaw Peninsula , and the Lake Superior lighthouses ! 

Upper Peninsula Michigan map

Upper Peninsula road trip route map

For the visual, here’s the basic route that’s outlined on the list below. 

Lake Superior circle tour

The Lake Superior circle tour is a thing. (So is a Michigan scenic byway.)

Circling Lake Superior means driving around the lake through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario (Canada)!

If you want to do the whole loop, Americans do need a passport to travel to Canada, or an enhanced drivers license if you live in a state where that’s offered… like Michigan!

Part of this drive around the UP will cover the Michigan stops to make on the Lake Superior circle tour!

Lake Superior isn’t the only one of the Great Lakes that you can see on a UP road trip though!

The Upper Peninsula touches 3 of the Great Lakes: Lake Superior , Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron! With the trip route below, you can see all 3 of these lakes!

As you are driving, you may also come across signs for the Lake Michigan circle tour and the Lake Huron circle tour too.

You can also make your Michigan road trip into:

• Michigan waterfalls road trip
• Michigan lighthouse road trip
• Lake Superior road trip
• Lake Superior camping trip

North Country Trail

There is also something called the North Country Trail which is a national scenic trail .

This is a hiking trail (backpacking trail) that extends for 4,600 miles across many states from the midwest to east coast. Part of it goes through the Upper Peninsula.

Camping in the Upper Peninsula

I did this as a 2 week camping trip. So it’s possible to find campgrounds along the way. 

For Michigan state park campgrounds, be sure to see this list of state park campgrounds in the UP that will give you amazing views of the Great Lakes! You’ll want to make reservations, and this is the state park camping reservation website .

For national park campgrounds , you will also want to make reservations, and this is the national park camping reservation website .

You can also find Michigan state forest campgrounds and Hiawatha National Forest campgrounds along the way too.

Prepare for minimal cell and data service

Even if you won’t be camping, you want to prepare as if you won’t have cell service (data service) as you drive from one destination to another within the UP.

Since this is remote Michigan, there’s a good chance you will hardly get any data service while on the road. (You may get a little service as you’re passing through small towns.)

Most importantly, this means that it would be a very good idea to download offline google maps before you go. This is free.

GPS mostly works around the UP, so as long as you have offline maps, then you’ll be able to navigate even if you aren’t able to get data.

Quick list: Best things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

• Eastern Upper Peninsula
• Whitefish Point (shipwreck coast)
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Western Upper Peninsula
• Keweenaw Peninsula
• Porcupine Mountains State Park
• Lake Superior lighthouse road trip
• Upper Peninsula waterfalls road trip
• Camping near Lake Superior

HAPPY DRIVING AROUND MICHIGAN ON YOUR U.P. ROAD TRIP!

I did this Upper Peninsula road trip in summer 2020. Your experience may vary!

• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Upper Peninsula Michigan
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

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Road Trip: 3 Days in Northern Michigan

By Ashlea Halpern

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This 500-mile road trip starts in Traverse City and ends in Copper Harbor, bridging Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, while visiting three out of five Great Lakes.

The trip: Three days, 500 miles

Getting there:.

Fly into Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) , about 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, via Delta, American, and United. Or, tap Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX) in Hancock, which offers two daily flights via SkyWest Airlines to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

When to go:

The drive up north is lovely every season but winter. The Upper Peninsula gets up to 200 inches of snow per year—super if you love snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing; not so super in a slip-and-slide rental car.

Day 1: The best fuel for the long drive ahead is a hearty trail sandwich from S2S | Sugar 2 Salt , a breakfast-only eatery in Traverse City. The menu changes seasonally but the stack-ups are always inspired (e.g., an English muffin with fried egg, spinach, mozzarella, and pork shoulder confit). Before heading north, go 40 minutes west to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , where you can watch hang gliders launch off the sandy bluffs towering over Lake Michigan. For a breezy hike with terrific views of the Manitou Islands, follow the grassy dune crest along Sleeping Bear Point . The 2.8-mile roundtrip loop can be done in under an hour. From here, cut east through Traverse City (a cherry pie stop at Grand Traverse Pie Company makes the backtracking worthwhile) and north for 50 miles toward the charming town of Charlevoix (population 2,514), where you’ll find a cluster of thatched-roof mushroom houses. Four of these storybook gnome villas are available to rent, but there’s no time for that today: Instead, take your pictures and swing over to Michigan Beach Park , home to the lipstick-red Charlevoix South Pier Light Station. It’s a lovely little spot for a half hour of sunbathing, beach combing, and general Instagramming.

Back in the car, roll down your windows, turn up the stereo, and book it 50 minutes to the M-119 N, also known as the Tunnel of Trees . The 27.5-mile stretch of heritage highway, which links Harbor Springs to Cross Village, is spectacularly scenic: dense hardwood forest and Hallmark-movie hamlets spliced with views of Lake Michigan. At the end of the road, a hearty dinner of kielbasa, pierogi, and zurek (a sour rye soup with Polish sausage and hard-boiled eggs) waits for you at the historic Legs Inn , which has been family-run since the 1920s. If the weather is good, request a table in the manicured garden out back; the panoramic view of Lake Michigan, particularly at sunset, is second to none. (Just don’t be so mesmerized by the scenery that you overlook the menagerie of vintage taxidermy inside the lodge’s bar.)

You've got another half hour drive north before you check into the quaint Huron Breeze Cottage in Mackinaw City, a well-reviewed Airbnb that accommodates up to six guests and sits within walking distance of Wawatam Park. Before you call it a night, take a leisurely drive to Emmet County’s Headlands International Dark Sky Park , some five miles away. The 550-acre woodland preserve is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. On a clear evening, it’s the best stargazing spot on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, thanks to its near total lack of light pollution.

Rent a kayak to explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Day 2: Head down to Lake Huron to catch the sunrise, and then inhale a greasy spoon breakfast at the 61-year-old Darrow’s Family Restaurant in Mackinaw City. You’ve got a lot of miles to cover today. Cross the 26,372-foot Mackinac Bridge , the third longest suspension bridge in the world, and wave hello and goodbye to famed Mackinac Island (yes, the one with the horse-drawn carriages) as you enter Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. You’re now in U.P. country.

Your first stop is Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) in Manistique, about two hours in. The natural cold spring, located in the 388-acre Palms Book State Park , is so crystal clear you can see 40 feet to the bottom. The spring is loaded with trout (but no fishing allowed!) and you can steer a slow-moving raft to the middle and back. Up next: Munising , one hour away. Order the straight-from-the-lake whitefish at carnival-casual food stand The Fish Basket . The fish and chips are legendary, but make time for Munising's better-known attraction: its Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore . You can join a packed sightseeing boat that runs up and down a waterfront roughly the size of Manhattan, but a less expensive, more intimate way to experience the scenery is by renting a kayak at Miners Castle Beach and paddling out to the same painted caves and color-shifting sandstone cliffs those tourists are photographing from the top deck. Only difference? You’re close enough to touch ‘em. Another alternative is to stroll the sun-dappled nature trail that leads to Miners Falls, a 50-foot tumbler deep in the forest. Don’t stay too long, though; you have one more town to reach before nightfall—and that’s Marquette , 48 minutes west. Here, you can pick up unique souvenirs like salty licorice and tar soap at Touch of Finland , dine on a creative farm-to-table menu under a garden trellis blooming with hops at The Marq , and rest your bones at the sumptuously attired, 60-room Landmark Inn .

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

You can take in Eagle River Falls's full glory from the parking lot.

Day 3: If you don’t eat a pasty when you’re in the U.P., did you even go? Your first stop after departing Marquette should be Irontown Pasties in Negaunee, just 12 miles west. In addition to the more traditional pockets stuffed with ground beef and rutabaga, this local bakery offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free alternatives. (Be sure to call your order in an hour ahead of your arrival if you want it hot and ready to go.) Next, program Eagle River Falls into Google Maps. Two and half hours later, you’ll be snapping photos of a 25-foot waterfall spilling over volcanic basalt right from the roadside parking lot. Stand on the nearby pedestrian bridge for the best views. From here, you’re a two-minute drive to Fitzgerald’s Hotel & Restaurant in Mohawk. Dubbed “the Fitz” by doting locals, there’s a lot to love about this low-key haunt: authentic smokehouse barbecue, big picture windows offering sweeping views of Lake Superior, and one of the best craft beer menus in the country. A flight is the way to go: You can sample brews from Michigan-based Short’s, Upper Hand, B. Nektar, and Founder’s without getting tipsy. (Your drive isn’t over yet!)

The last stop on this journey is Copper Harbor , the northernmost town in Michigan. Pop by Thunderbird Gifts at Minnetonka Resort to browse more than 2,000 collectible books, old copper mining and railroad memorabilia, and silver and turquoise jewelry. (Note to prospective prospectors: You can rent metal detectors here.) If the weather holds, take the 20-minute drive up Brockway Mountain , one of the highest paved road between the Rockies and the Alleghenies. From this vantage point 735 feet above Copper Harbor, you can see Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior more than 50 miles away. If it’s too thick with fog, go for a 1.2-mile hike in the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary instead. Fresh air, 500-year-old pine trees, and a mossy floor covering evoke storybook fantasies—and help rejuvenate weary road trippers before the hour-long return to Houghton County Memorial Airport in Hancock.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / The Great Northern / Michigan

There are two main routes across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (the “UP”), which stretches for nearly 350 mi (565 km) between Canada and Wisconsin, wedged between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Between Ironwood in the west and Sault Ste. Marie on the Canadian border in the east, you can choose US-2 along the north shore of Lake Michigan or the slightly more direct option, Hwy-28, which runs near the south shore of Lake Superior near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Either way takes most of a day, and this is not a place to try to make up time.

In either case, you’re privy to one of the greater finds of the Midwest, the sparsely populated and thoroughly underappreciated (especially by the “trolls” of southern Michigan) land of the “Yoopers,” as the proud residents have christened themselves, many still ensconced in the logging and mining enclaves their forebears founded. The UP is a surprisingly mountainous and larger-than-it-looks place, dotted with boom-to-bust towns relying on summer tourism and one or more of the industrial triumvirate up here: timber, mining, and fishing. More than three quarters of the land here is protected to varying degrees within national and state parks and forests, and it’s no surprise that the best places tend to be farthest away from the main roads; though the roadside scenery is plenty pretty, the more remote areas are as wild and ruggedly beautiful as anywhere in North America.

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Please note: Brockway Mountain Drive is seasonal. It becomes part of the snowmobile trail system in the winter. The date it opens depends on the snowfall and the time road restrictions come off. The BMD Facebook page is updated when the road opens for the season.

Another great Michigan road trip.

Michigan Back Roads About Up North Contact Ron

Brockway Mountain Drive

The upper peninsula of Michigan is famous for scenic drives. One that is beautiful in any season is the Brockway Mountain Drive in Copper Harbor. The drive is 10 miles long and has several pull-offs enabling visitors to stop and take in the scenery. It is the highest paved road from the Rocky Mountains to the Allegheny Mountains. There are two nature preserves along the drive that are worth visiting as well.

Brockway Mountain Drive is the highest paved road between the Rockies and the Alleghenies. Just outside Copper Harbor you will find a breathtaking 360° view of Lake Superior, the surrounding woodlands and inland lakes. This lookout is 735 feet above the lake. On a clear day you can see Isle Royale about 50 miles away! At the other end is the West Bluff with more awesome views. One peculiar feature of the West Bluff is the condition of the oak trees. Due to poor soil and nearly constant winds, these oaks are stunted and have become twisted almost like Bonsai trees.

If you plan to ride Brockway by bicycle, be prepared for some extremely steep hills. It really is a mountain. In addition, the winds can be very strong, but the scenic overlooks along the way from the Copper Harbor Overlook all the way out to West Bluff, make it all worth it. You can enjoy a sunrise and a sunset from the same spot. Please note, Brockway Mountain Drive is seasonal. It becomes part of the snowmobile trail system in the winter. The date it opens depends on the snowfall and the time road restrictions come off.

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Seeking Adventure? Our Spontaneous 24-Hour Spring Break Road Trip in the Upper Peninsula Did Not Disappoint

When Michigan got a sudden burst of springlike weather in mid-April 2023, our family needed a Michigan spring break adventure . And nothing makes for a better adventure in Michigan than a spontaneous spring road trip to the Upper Peninsula.

So that’s exactly what we did — we packed the kids in the ‘Burb, and we headed north for a spontaneous 24-hour spring break Upper Peninsula road trip !

Stay Overnight in Mackinaw City

While it’s not in the Upper Peninsula, Mackinaw City is as close as you can get to the Upper Peninsula without crossing the Straits of Mackinac, and it became our first destination as we escaped Lower Michigan.

Since this was a spontaneous road trip, we left downstate mid-afternoon, stopping for a quick bite along I-75 before stopping in Mackinaw City for the night. Booking a Mackinaw City hotel in the off-season was an easy feat, and we managed to score a room overlooking Lake Huron for our whole family for around $115/night (and that included breakfast in the morning)!

While we weren’t there to explore (most of the town was still shut up for the winter), we did enjoy spending a few minutes on the shore of Lake Huron while doing one of our family’s favorite lakeshore activities… skipping rocks.

Watch Spring Freighters at the Soo Locks

In the morning, we packed up the ‘Burb after breakfast at the hotel and a quick stop for coffee, and we punched Sault Ste Marie into our GPS.

This has been on my personal bucket list since the summer of 2021 when we featured the Soo Locks Boat Tours on the #MIAwesomeList Summer Bucket List .

Since it was a spontaneous trip, we didn’t really have a plan or even know what to expect. We just showed up and hoped we’d see a boat or two going through the Locks.

When we arrived, it took us a minute to get our bearings as spring at the Soo Locks is a lot quieter than summertime, and there are fewer gates open.

We parked in the angled pay-to-park spots along the main street outside the gates of the Locks ($.50/hour — pay by coin or on the app — maximum of two hours), and found an open gate at the far right end of the park.

Once inside the park, we ventured over and up to the observation deck where we watched a boat that had already entered the Locks and was headed downriver.

The process was SLOW, and other than the few plaques in the observation tower, there was little to no explanation of what was happening. My kids were more excited about seeing the bridge to Canada and the shores of Canada across the Locks than they were about watching the boats move through the Locks.

As that boat made its way out of the Locks, we decided to wander around the grounds. We found a few employees and asked them if they knew of any other boats scheduled to go through the Locks — they directed us to a maritime app that would show us the location of any commercial vessel in the world at that moment.

That app alerted us to another boat that was ready to head through the Locks — going up to Lake Superior this time — so we wandered back over to the observation deck. Once again, the process was SLOW and the kids quickly lost interest.

Overall, we were underwhelmed by the Soo Locks in spring, BUT we’re hoping to go back this summer to take a boat tour THROUGH the Locks, as that will likely be a much more “hands-on” and exciting experience!

See Spring Runoff at Tahquamenon Falls

After our hour at the Soo Locks, we decided that Tahquamenon Falls would be next on our spontaneous spring road trip through the Upper Peninsula. Another item on my personal bucket list since working for Awesome Mitten, I was especially excited.

We punched the address (or what we thought was the address) into the GPS and started driving. It’s about 1.25 hours from the Soo Locks to Tahquamenon Falls, and there’s not much to do or see between the two during spring in the Upper Peninsula.

When we arrived at the address we’d punched into our GPS, the DNR office was closed for the winter, but there were self-registration forms for anyone who didn’t already have a State Park Pass for the year.

There was a gate across the road just past the office, but a few vehicles were sitting alongside the road through the gate. I walked up and asked one of them if they knew why the road was blocked.

Turns out, it was the Lower Falls entrance, and they were only accessible via a 1-mile hike during the off-season.

So, we got back in the ‘Burb and drove another mile or so down the road to the Upper Falls (which is where we wanted to be all along — we just didn’t know it). This parking lot actually had vehicles in it (less than a dozen or so), and people were milling around.

Note: The Upper Falls parking lot has a bathroom facility that’s open year-round, and the walking trail is maintained throughout the winter and spring months.

This stop ended up being one of the highlights of our entire trip… the kids immediately took off down the path (they love exploring nature) and ran from lookout point to lookout point, excited to get a glimpse of the powerful spring runoff.

We lingered at the park for over an hour — and had our stomachs not been hankering for lunch, we could have lingered longer — before loading the ‘Burb back up and getting back on the road.

Eat Lunch at Timber Charlie’s in Newberry

We’d hoped to eat lunch at Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub, but it was closed for the off-season (late March to late April), so we had to find another option.

Having helped to research the details for the M-123 Tahquamenon Scenic Byway article, I knew that we’d find our way back toward Newberry if we kept driving west after leaving the park. That was good knowledge to have as our cellphones had no signal in Tahquamenon Falls State Park or for the first several miles after leaving the park.

Once our phones regained a signal, we used them to find a few different restaurant options in Newberry that were open. Timber Charlie’s ranked high with recent reviews, and when it was the first place we saw in town, it was an easy choice for eating local in the Upper Peninsula. 

We loved the “Up North” decor and small-town feel of this Upper Peninsula diner, and the food blew us away. From the big-as-your-head soft pretzel appetizer to the huge plate of pulled pork nachos smothered in housemade beer cheese, everything we ordered was delicious and filling!

Our late lunch filled us all up enough that we didn’t need another meal that day — just a quick ice cream stop before bedtime.

Sleep Overnight in Escanaba

And speaking of bedtime… while there were several other stops we would have loved to explore on our spontaneous Upper Peninsula spring break trip, we had some tired kiddos and needed to get to our hotel in Escanaba so that we could rest for the night.

I sadly drove past the turn-offs for Fayette Historic State Park and Kitch-iti-kipi as we made our way westward on US-2. We’ll have to plan another trip soon to revisit those beloved Upper Peninsula destinations !

When traveling along US-2 in the middle of the Upper Peninsula, our family’s favorite place to stay is at the Sunset Lodge in Escanaba . It can sometimes be difficult to find a room big enough for our whole family, but its family-sized room (three beds) is a great fit for us.

Eat Breakfast at The Family Inn

And the best part about staying at the Sunset Lodge is that The Family Inn restaurant is next door. While most of us aren’t morning people, knowing that we get to eat breakfast at The Family Inn when we stay in Escanaba is motivation for us to get out of bed and pack our bags in the ‘Burb.

The portions are huge, the food is delicious, and the waitstaff is always super friendly. While we have some great breakfast places in our hometown, we still look forward to eating at The Family Inn when we pass through Escanaba.

Head Home Again

Our time in the Upper Peninsula this spring was definitely not long enough to experience everything we would have liked to do and see, but alas, our 24 hours were up and real life was calling.

While some people might think that there isn’t anything to do in spring in the Upper Peninsula , we know better, and we’re excited to explore again next spring (and hopefully between now and then, too!).

Content Manager & SEO Strategist

Ashley Pichea is a digital content manager and strategist who was born and raised in Michigan. When she's not geeking out over SEO or managing the content on Awesome Mitten, she's a wife and a busy mom of five awesome kids ranging from high school to preschool. You can find her sharing her tips for raising a busy family and traveling with kids at PicheaPlace.com .

One Comment

Too bad you didn’t get to the western end of the UP. Many small towns west of Marquette.

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Michigan Coastal Road Trip: A Unique Adventure

I f you’re looking for a unique adventure and beautiful drive, a Michigan coastal road trip should top your list. Why? There are 129 lighthouses in Michigan and 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline. Plus, Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state, dozens in the lower portion alone.

Though I didn’t plan to see them all, or not even many, this fact spurred me to realize I hadn’t seen enough of the Michigan coastline. So, I set off on a road trip.

Michigan’s West Coast

Van buren state park.

I began my Michigan coastal road trip by driving three hours from Detroit to Van Buren State Park on the lower west side of the state. Van Buren State Park, just a few miles south of South Haven, encompasses 400 acres along Lake Michigan. The park has a mile-long sandy beach, high dune formations, a big campground, and woodland trails.

The big, old-growth trees are perfectly spaced for a hammock, and I set mine up first thing. The campsites are large and wooded, and just through the trees is Lake Michigan. From most spots in the campground, a 20-minute hike will take you through a densely wooded forest and put you out on one mile of sandy beach on the Lake Michigan coast.

Fun Fact: Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. Remember them as HOMES: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior.

After a night in Van Buren State Park, I went north up Michigan’s western coast. Inspired by the dunes at Van Buren, I was eager to see the much greater dunes around Silver Lake.

I headed through Holland, Michigan, where they have the annual Tulip Festival and stopped for lunch in Muskegon.

It’s the most populous city along Lake Michigan’s Eastern shore and a popular location for fall hunters and summer beachgoers. Its downtown is filled with charming small businesses and cultural amenities like museums and Muskegon State Park is home to miles of trails and stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Fun Fact: Lake Michigan is the second largest Great Lake by volume and the third largest by surface area, after Lake Superior (deeper) and Lake Huron (bigger). The lake is 307 miles long and 118 miles wide. Its average depth is 279 feet, but its deepest is 923 feet!

Silver Lake Sand Dunes

I kept traveling north and found the Silver Lake Sand Dunes . This is a 2,000-acre park, made up of mostly sand, near the pinky finger of the mitten. It is home to some of the tallest dunes east of the Mississippi River. The dunes can reach up to 200 feet high and are a popular spot for off-roading (rentals available), sandboarding, and hiking.

Fun Fact : Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake entirely within the United States. It also borders Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.

You can camp in the park , stay in a hotel in nearby Mears, or rent a vacation home in the area, but whichever you choose, book as far in advance as possible. The campground is small and the area fills up quickly with many long-timers returning year after year. It’s a highly touristed area, so you’ll find plenty of putt-putt golf and children’s activities, none better than the Mac Woods Sand Dune Ride.

Mac Woods Sand Dune Ride

The 40 minutes ride takes place on specially-designed, bus-size dune buggies with airplane tires that plow through the steep slopes of the dunes. They take riders through several trails and scenic spots, including Lake Michigan. I attest that the ride is an adrenaline-filled fun fest worth every penny. Moreover, the guides give you a history of dunes and information about Lake Michigan and the general area.

Fact : The Mac Woods property is called woods because it used to be a forest, but Mac cut the trees downs after the Great Chicago Fire and floated the logs across the lake to sell them.

Be prepared: the airplane tires enable the dune buggy to go faster than you might expect, but they also make it much smoother than other vehicles you might take on the dunes. Plus, they don’t tear up the trails – just glide over them. It’s a sort of lovely rollercoaster ride.

If you don’t want to rent a vehicle yourself – or use your own – Mac Woods Sand Dune rides are a great way to experience the beauty of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. They offer rides from May to October.

Fun Fact : There are dead dunes and live dunes. Live dunes constantly shift and move with the wind growing larger or smaller. Dunes become stable when anchored by root systems, so to preserve the area in the 1950s, boy scouts planted grass.

Little Sable Point Lighthouse

The Little Sable Point Lighthouse is only about a mile from Mac Woods. At 107 feet, it’s one of the tallest lighthouses in Michigan and on the National Register of Historic Places, so I drove there to see it. Dunes surround it and while there’s a parking lot for beachgoers nearby, there’s still a lot of sand to navigate.

The lighthouse is open for tours from May through September and visitors can climb the 130 steps to the top for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

But wait. If it’s one of the tallest, why is it called “Little?” Its designer, Col. Orlando M. Poe, also designed the Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington State Park, the second-tallest lighthouse in Michigan, at 112 feet.

Fun fact : The tallest lighthouse in Michigan is the Rock of Ages Lighthouse on Lake Superior, overlooking Isle Royale National Park at 130 feet tall.

I drove north for a few hours to Manistee and the Orchard Lake Campground.

The Orchard Beach State Park has a lake view at the top of the bluff with the relentless water crashing into the rocks, but downtown Manistee won my heart. Downtown Manistee is small, but it’s jammed packed with charm. Small businesses and historic buildings line Main Street with the Manistee River flowing behind them. On a much smaller scale, the vibe is like Traverse City; there’s even the Manistee Brewing Company for some craft brews.

Nearby, the Manistee National Forest has miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and old-growth forests. The city was founded from the lumber industry, which you can learn all about at the Manistee Historical Museum.

Stop by the Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse at the end of Main Street, where the road meets Lake Michigan. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places and is open for tours. Visitors can climb the 145 steps to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Manistee River. It’s a great place to watch the sunset.

Further north, I drove through Traverse City . The breweries, wineries, beaches, watersports, small businesses and scenery make this a fantastic spot to stay for several days. Also, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore dunes range in height from 200 to 450 feet and, as some of the tallest in the eastern US, are worth seeing.

Since it’s the home of the Michigan state rock, I stopped for an afternoon in Petoskey, Michigan . Like the others, this Lake Michigan Community features many beaches and dunes, but that’s not all.

This historic town is as picturesque as the day it was incorporated and takes you back in time. Find out about Indian history at the Little Traverse Bay Indian Museum. Also, spend some time strolling the shops in the Gaslight Shopping District, a historic district with various shops and restaurants spanning several blocks. Or walk around admiring the historic homes and spectacular views of the lake.

Fun Fact : Petoskey Stones are fossilized coral. You can find them all over this part of the state, or just buy one – they’re for sale everywhere. As an avid rock collector, I can tell you they’re not easy to come by elsewhere.

Charlevoix is a unique place on a narrow strip of land between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, with the short Pine River running through it. It’s also the gateway to the largest island in Lake Michigan – Beaver Island . It’s a popular tourist spot with a charming downtown, a scenic lighthouse, and many small shops and tourist activities.

Beaver Island is a car-free island with a rich history, likened to Mackinaw Island, but much less known. The island is about 14 miles long and 7 miles wide, with about 650 residents.

No coastal Michigan road trip is complete without crossing the Mackinaw Bridge, so that’s where I headed next.

Michigan’s Upper Mitten

Mackinaw bridge.

Though I’ve crossed it many times, it’s always worth doing again because it’s just so unique. The Mackinac Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning a five-mile-wide channel that connects Lake Huron and Lake Michigan across the Straits of Mackinac. This iconic bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the United States and it’s a grand site to behold.

In St. Ignace, just across the bridge, is the Straights State Park , where I camped for the night. St. Ignace is a great place to stay overnight if you’re traveling the area or heading further north into the upper peninsula. What I loved most about Straights State Park, aside from the 180 acres of old-growth forest, is the shoreline that makes up a large part of the park within view of the Mackinaw Bridge and nearby Mackinaw Island .

Several campers set up chairs on the beach as the sun set and the bridge lights came on. Spectacular.

Colonial Michilimackinac

The next day, back across the bridge, I continued my Michigan coastal road trip along the top of the mitten, but first, I stopped at Fort Michilimackinac. Colonial Michilimackinac is an 18th-century French and British fur trading post and military outpost on the Straits of Mackinac. Historians have reconstructed the fort based on historic maps and more than 60 years of archaeological excavations.

Today, visitors can see reenactments of colonial life at the fort with demonstrations of blacksmithing, ironworking, basket weaving, boat building and other 18th-century practices that made up daily life at the fort.

Tickets are $14.50 each, but the view of the Mackinaw Bridge from its ramparts is worth the price alone.

Mackinaw City

Nearby in Mackinaw City, there are dozens of tourist amenities and hotels and the ferries to Mackinaw Island – another popular tourist stop with a historic downtown and no motorized vehicles allowed. While in Mackinaw City, stop and take a picture of the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. You can also buy tickets to the top and see its restored quarters and bridge views.

After Mackinaw City , at the tip of the mitten, my Michigan coastal road trip turned back east beyond Cheboygan with views of Lake Huron outside my driver’s window, and my thoughts turned to shipwrecks.

Lake Huron Shipwrecks

Many people may not know that the Great Lakes are a popular scuba diving location because of the many shipwrecks near shore and in excellent condition. The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary protects a nationally significant collection of nearly 100 historic shipwrecks in Lake Huron off the Michigan coast. There are a few that can even be seen from the shore.

Joseph S. Fay shipwreck

The Joseph S. Fay was a 216-foot wooden freighter that transported iron ore from Lake Superior to Cleveland. In 1905, the boat encountered a storm in Lake Huron and the heavy seas and gale-force winds drove it ashore on 40 Mile Point, near Rogers City, Michigan. Today, you can see the wood boards and huge metal nails that remain on the beach. The rest of the ship is about 16 feet underground, just off the shore.

I read the following on a sign at one of my Lake Huron stops. I’m not sure it’s true, but it’s amusing after you’ve seen dozens of lighthouses and shipwrecks.

Lake Huron Harrisville State Park

The tip of the mitten is the shortest part of my Michigan coastal road trip and before long, I am heading south through Alpena and the Huron-Manistee National Forest. This area, too, is part of Thunder Bay and the shipwrecks and marine life make it a popular tourist destination. I don’t stay long before heading to camp for the night at the Lake Huron Harrisville State Park .

The best thing about the Michigan state parks is that many are on the Great Lakes seashore. Here too, the views of the massive lake are spectacular. I pull up my chair and watch as the day fades into night amid the sound of crashing waves large enough to compare with any ocean.

Stop by the Sturgeon Point Light Station. It’s a historic example of a Cape Cod-style Great Lakes lighthouse.

Michigan Thumb

My Michigan coastal road trip continued through Oscoda, Tawas and Bay City into the thumb of the mitten. If you’re looking for Michigan farmland, you’ll find it here. The communities here are more rural, the houses along the shoreline are smaller, and the opportunities for significant tourism diminish. However, there is still a lot to see, especially near the S hiawassee National Wildlife Refuge , where bird lovers better bring their binoculars to explore the 9,800-acre birders’ paradise in this inviolate sanctuary for migratory birds.

Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park

My Michigan coastal road trip has been peppered with hours of driving and intermittent stops to walk in the woods. But this was the first area where I’d walk back in time.

The Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park resides in the middle of the upper portion of the thumb and is on the National Register of Historic Places for the petroglyphs carved into rocks in the area. The Sanilac Petroglyphs are a collection of Native American petroglyphs (rock carvings) that depict various images, including animals, humans, and geometric shapes. There are a series of trails around the park to hike but go when the park is open for the ranger tours and access to the best petroglyphs, which are locked in a gated area after hours. The petroglyphs were likely carved by the Ojibwa people, who inhabited the area before European settlers. Admission is free.

After a long, rainy night in the van, I finished my Michigan coastal road trip by driving along the coastline of the thumb and eventually back to Detroit, where I began.

Despite living in Michigan most of my life, I learned a lot about the state’s industry, people, places and history that I never knew before. I’ve been to most of the states in this country, but Michigan is the only one surrounded by lakes seemingly as big and fierce as an ocean. Few states have as much shoreline coupled with forests and even fewer maintain their original character. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind road trip, this is it.

Read other stories about Michigan here.

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