Best Michigan Routes

Exploring Michigan by RV is a fantastic way to experience the state's natural beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant cities. Here are some of the best RV routes in Michigan, complete with must-see stops along the way:

1. Great Lakes Circle TourRoute:

• Start: Detroit, MI
• End: Traverse City, MI (or continue to complete the circle around Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior)

Highlights:

• Detroit: Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, and Belle Isle Park.
• Port Huron: Explore the historic lighthouse and waterfront.
• Mackinac Island: Take a ferry from Mackinaw City and enjoy the island's car-free environment, historic sites, and natural beauty.
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Marvel at the stunning cliffs and waterfalls near Munising.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Hike the dunes and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

2. Upper Peninsula AdventureRoute:

• Start: St. Ignace, MI
• End: Ironwood, MI

Highlights:

• St. Ignace: Gateway to the Upper Peninsula with easy access to Mackinac Island.
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park: View the impressive waterfalls and hike the scenic trails.
• Munising: Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and take a boat tour to see the colorful cliffs.
• Marquette: Enjoy the vibrant downtown area, Presque Isle Park, and local breweries.
• Keweenaw Peninsula: Visit historic copper mining towns and scenic vistas along Lake Superior.
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Hike to Lake of the Clouds and explore the vast wilderness.

3. Lake Michigan Shoreline TourRoute:

• Start: New Buffalo, MI
• End: Traverse City, MI

Highlights:

• New Buffalo: Enjoy the beaches and local wineries.
• South Haven: Relax on the sandy beaches and visit the Michigan Maritime Museum.
• Holland: Experience the Dutch culture, windmills, and beautiful tulip gardens.
• Grand Haven: Stroll along the boardwalk, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy the musical fountain show.
• Ludington: Take the S.S. Badger car ferry, visit Ludington State Park, and climb Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Hike the dunes and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan.
• Traverse City: Enjoy the wineries, cherry orchards, and beautiful bays.

4. Michigan Scenic Byway RouteRoute:

• Start: Detroit, MI
• End: Copper Harbor, MI

Highlights:

• Detroit: Visit the Henry Ford Museum and explore the revitalized downtown area.
• Ann Arbor: Home to the University of Michigan, with great dining and cultural attractions.
• Grand Rapids: Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens, and local breweries.
• Petoskey: Known for its historic downtown, waterfront, and nearby state parks.
• Charlevoix: Explore the unique mushroom houses and picturesque downtown area.
• Mackinac Bridge: Drive across this engineering marvel connecting Michigan's Lower and Upper Peninsulas.
• Houghton: Explore the Keweenaw National Historical Park and learn about the region's mining history.
• Copper Harbor: At the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, this area offers outdoor activities, stunning views, and the Brockway Mountain Drive.

5. Sunrise Coast Scenic BywayRoute:

• Start: Standish, MI
• End: Mackinaw City, MI

Highlights:

• Tawas City: Enjoy Tawas Point State Park and its historic lighthouse.
• Oscoda: Visit the Oscoda Beach Park and nearby Au Sable River.
• Harrisville: Explore Harrisville State Park and the quiet, sandy beaches.
• Alpena: Discover the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Maritime Heritage Center.
• Cheboygan: Visit the Cheboygan State Park and take a ferry to Bois Blanc Island.
• Mackinaw City: Explore Fort Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and take a ferry to Mackinac Island.

Tips for RVing in Michigan:

• Plan Ahead: Michigan's popular RV destinations can fill up quickly, especially in the summer. Make reservations in advance where possible.
• Check Road Conditions: Some areas, especially in the Upper Peninsula, can have road closures or construction. Stay updated on current conditions.
• Pack for All Seasons: Michigan weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers and be prepared for changes in weather.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep Michigan's natural beauty pristine.

By following these routes and tips, you can have an enjoyable and memorable RV adventure in Michigan.