Jeff TeRoller
One of the state’s most photographed lighthouses
Holland Harbor Light, known affectionately as Big Red, has stood on Lake Michigan’s coast for more than 100 years. Glance up at the historic beacon while sailing through the channel to Lake Macatawa where you can access public boat launches and dockside restaurants. The wheelchair-accessible boardwalk along the channel provides opportunities for fishing and pictures.
Traverse City Tourism
Majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Massive sand dunes tower above the crystal-blue waters of Lake Michigan along over 100 kilometers of scenic shores near Traverse City. Take trails that connect the beachfront to forests and inland lakes or reach uninhabited islands by ferry. Sunsets on any of the multiple west-facing beaches are spectacular.
Beach and maritime history on Lake Superior
Located along Lake Superior near Sault Ste. Marie, Point Iroquois’ shoreline welcomes families with a sandy escape set on refreshing waters. Tour the on-site lighthouse that’s on the National Register of Historic Places and its maritime museum before climbing 72 steps to the top of the tower for picturesque 360-degree views.
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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s rugged bluffs
Explore the multicolored sandstone cliffs, beaches, dunes, waterfalls and wildlife of this gem near Munising. During the warm months, enjoy paddling along the Lake Superior shoreline before staying at campgrounds near or away from the water’s edge. Hiking trails allow cross-country skiing and snowmobiling treks when the area is blanketed in snow.
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Endless trails are only the beginning of outdoor fun
This all-season tourist spot at the northernmost point of Michigan has made a name for itself as a top mountain biking destination, but Copper Harbor’s surrounding lands provide outdoor wonderment for the whole family. Hike through forests that burst with wildflowers in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall. Seasonal ferries connect this charming town to Isle Royale National Park.
Engineering marvel connects two favorite towns
Cruise the Mackinac Bridge for views of Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Huron to the east. Its southern terminus, Mackinaw City, is a sightseeing haven with delicious fudge and historic sites. Its northern end, St. Ignace, welcomes travelers to the Upper Peninsula with budget-friendly accommodations and tour companies ready to get you paddling, hiking and biking.
Eye-popping rock formations amaze near Port Austin
Paddle pristine and shallow waters to get near a limestone sea stack. This geological wonder, known as Turnip Rock, is located where Saginaw Bay meets Lake Huron. Rent a kayak or canoe for self-exploration of the shore that includes multiple sea caves, public beaches and city parks. Boat tours are also available for more leisurely viewing.
