With an estimated 150 species of trees found across millions of forested acres, Michigan is a major competitor when it comes to showcasing a wide and colorful mix of fall colors. Surrounded by wilderness preserves and stunning lake views, the northernmost portions of Michigan and surrounding areas are a great place to visit for fall foliage.
For a couple of worthy leaf-season stops, try St. Ignace, in the lowest section of the state’s Upper Peninsula; Mackinaw City, a town located at the tip of Michigan’s mainland; and the charming and historic Mackinac Island.
Located along the great Lake Huron, St. Ignace is a popular gateway for travelers visiting from the lower part of the state.
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts won’t be disappointed. Nearby Straits State Park is home to just under 200 acres, with great views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac, especially colorful in fall.
Outside of incredible fall foliage, notable park offerings include the Father Marquette National Memorial, which includes an interpretive trail and recounts the story of the 17th century missionary and explorer and the initial interactions of French and Native Americans, plus a Michigan history center. Traveling with kids? The park also offers picnic areas, a kids’ playground and waterfront along Lake Huron.
At the St. Ignace boardwalk, you’ll find Wawatam Lighthouse. Originally located in the town of Monroe, the lighthouse was moved, painted its present-day white and red colors, and has been in its current location since 2006. Take a walking tour along the boardwalk and enjoy the views at the end of the line.
Castle Rock is another draw for the non-heights-fearing traveler. Once you climb the roughly 200 steps to the top, this popular geological limestone stack offers amazing views.
Book your stay at Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront.
Just a quick ferry ride away from St. Ignace, Mackinac Island is known for the filming of the movie Somewhere In Time, the stately Grand Hotel, and of course, its marble slab-style fudge. It’s said that downtown shops on the island produce roughly 10,000 pounds of fudge daily in peak season.
While on St. Ignace, stop into Mackinac Fudge Shop on State Street and pick up one of many flavors, from maple to vanilla to black forest and more. (Check opening times before you go, as the shop is seasonal through early fall.)
Horse enthusiasts will love Mackinac Island, not just for the area’s charming horse-drawn carriage rides, but also for its many equine activities. Take in the seasonal beauty of the island with a guided or unguided trail ride at Cindy’s Riding Stable. Mix in a little bit of history and head over to the Grand Hotel Stable & Carriage Museum, which houses over 30 antique carriages and sleighs.
The island offers many scenic outlooks and photo-worthy spots, too, including Devil’s Kitchen, Sunset Rock, and Arch Rock.
Book your stay at Best Western Sault Ste. Marie.
Considered the “Crossroads of the Great Lakes,” Mackinaw City offers attractions along both the Lake Michigan and Huron shorelines.
Two lighthouses provide charming backdrops to the surrounding scenery: The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse marks the junction of lakes Huron and Michigan, and the close by McGulpin Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in the Straits. For a fee, you can climb to the top. The reward is a view of Mackinac Bridge and its surrounding waters.
For a view of the night sky in fall, head over to the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, a wildlife-rich section of undeveloped beach just east of Mackinaw City.
