Autumn is nearly upon us here in the Great Lakes State, and you know what that means: it’s time to start looking forward to the beauty of a new season. While summer is undeniably wonderful, there’s nothing more magical than basking in the crisp atmosphere of fall and its many vibrant colors. If you’re a fan of fall foliage, here’s a road trip through the region that will blow you away.
Because this list includes both the Lower and Upper Peninsulas, it’s best to tackle it over the course of several days. To save extra time, you can opt not to drive along the state’s east and west coasts — but we can’t resist the shorelines of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan! For an interactive and alterable map of our route, click here.
This stunning drive between Cross Village and Harbor Springs is an absolute must-visit when autumn rolls around. You’ll drive through seemingly endless rows of trees and marvel at a magical forest of colorful leaves. As if that weren’t enough, the drive will also take you alongside the shores of Lake Michigan.
Wine and fall foliage… what could be better? Take a journey to the Old Mission Peninsula, which stretches for just over 20 miles along Highway M-37 near Traverse City. Along the way, you’ll find countless wineries and all sorts of gorgeous scenery that will make you fall in love with autumn all over again.
Perhaps you’ve visited this lovely locale within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore during warmer months, but there’s something absolutely magical about touring it in the fall. Sweeping vistas of Lake Michigan meet unimaginably bright foliage as you make your way along this one-of-a-kind scenic drive.
Prepare to get lost in the best way possible as you roam the shaded trails of Nichols Arboretum, which sits along the banks of the Huron River in Ann Arbor. While this destination blooms with greenery and beauty during spring and summer, it’s a nature-lover’s paradise during autumn — and you’ll have to see it to believe it.
While the entirety of Michigan’s Sunrise Coast is worth visiting, some of the most wonderful views can be enjoyed from the banks of the Au Sable River near Oscoda. We recommend checking out Lumberman’s Monument Historic Site, which offers a fantastic combination of history and natural wonder. If you’re willing to do a bit of climbing, you can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding fall foliage.
Few sights are more amazing than a rushing waterfall surrounded by vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. When you visit Tahquamenon Falls, you’ll experience one of Michigan’s ultimate outdoor destinations — and it holds a unique charm during the autumn months that simply can’t be recaptured elsewhere. Once you get a glimpse of the foliage here, you’ll want to make it an annual trip.
Venture to Munising for a trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which boasts an endless array of outdoor activities to appreciate during the fall. Hike along the rocky cliffside of Lake Superior, stroll to visit some of the area’s beautiful waterfalls while gazing at colorful foliage, or simply take a drive through the surrounding forested areas. There’s truly something here for everyone.
There’s no better place than Michigan’s Copper Country in the fall, and Brockway Mountain Drive is a perfect route to take when you’re ready to experience some of the most mind-bogglingly beautiful scenery imaginable. Located near Copper Harbor, this nine-mile route offers sweeping views of Lake Superior and the Keeweenaw Peninsula itself. Talk about gorgeous!
Have you visited any of these incredible spots? Where are your favorite locations in Michigan for observing fall colors? We’d love to hear your thoughts and see your photos in the comment section below!
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