Adventure on Michigan’s Sunrise Coast and Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is one of the most coveted gems Michigan has to offer, thanks to its rich cultural history as an outpost during the Revolutionary war, and natural wonders like caves and rock formations that inhabit the island. Because of the island's attractive qualities, it's become a well-loved summer resort town for over a century, offering quaint Victorian-era architecture and streets reminiscent of a bygone era — on the island today, horse and buggy is still the norm. Cars are not allowed on the island, which offers a great opportunity to explore by bike and traverse its many hiking trails to visit historic forts and villages that were once important military bases.
What many travelers don't realize is that the drive up to Mackinac Island is equally as beautiful and unique as the island itself. On the way to the top of Michigan's lower peninsula, you will drive through Michigan's "Sunrise Coast," which offers 200 miles of notoriously beautiful sunrises and natural attractions. On the way, you will stop to take a boat out onto Lake Huron to learn about the once-fatal waters that caused hundreds of shipwrecks in the region. You'll make your way up to a scenic outpost to view the largest limestone quarry in the world; pictures simply do not do the huge limestone pit justice, seeing it in person appears other-worldly and enormous. You will visit Ocqueoc Falls, an easily accessible, unassuming waterfall that is the largest in the lower peninsula.
Because many of these scenic destinations are best seen in the summer, and some of the attractions close in cold weather, it's recommend taking this trip from May-September.