Road Trip: Mackinac Island, Michigan

We recently took a quick Quilt Shops and Photo Ops trip to Michigan. This included taking the fast route (interstate) up to Mackinaw City, a visit to Mackinac Island, and then working our way down the west edge of the state for viewing coastlines and lighthouses. This gave us a flexible 4-5 day agenda, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy. And to find Quilt Shops!


Today, we’ll talk about Mackinac Island, and the Photo Ops side of things. Quilt Shops and other fun will be in future posts. So, here we go:

Downtown area from the Shepler’s Ferry dock

Mackinac Island is a small (4.35 sqmi) island located about 6.5 miles northeast of Mackinaw City, accessible only by ferry (and private airplane). There are no cars, no chain restaurants/hotels. Lots bicycles, horse drawn carriages and walking. The entire island is listed as a National Historic Landmark. It is a very cool place.

Round Island Passage Light, and the West Breakwater
East end of Haldimand Bay

Following the “State Highway” around the east side of the island lead to some really beautiful spots:

Water’s Edge. Lake Huron, with Bois Blanc Island in the distance
Looking north, along the eastern edge of the island with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the distance
Kayaks in the open water of Lake Huron
Selfie, Arch Rock, from Highway 185

There’s a long set of stairs up the bluffs, leading to plenty of trails through wooded areas. And several natural features and historic sites.

Sugar Loaf Rock

We really enjoyed Mackinac Island, and are talking about going back.  There’s a lot to do that we didn’t even touch on.  We will probably stay on the island next time, to be more immersed in the experience.

Note, some of these photos have appeared on our instagram site, along with other photos from the trip. Check them out here.

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