Michigan fall colors: Check out these scenic drives across the state
Elizabeth HosangAutumn in Michigan consists of a lot of traditions: Cider mills, apple picking and hayrides, among others. Why not add a road trip to your fall plans?
While road trips are usually reserved for warm weather, consider taking a road trip this fall to explore Michigan's fall colors. You can do a day trip or plan out a multi-city trip over a weekend. Whatever you plan, consider taking these scenic routes:
Northern Michigan
Tunnel of Trees
This scenic route spans 50 miles with about an hour's worth of drive time. Depart Harbor Springs north on M-119. M-119 takes through Good Hart and Cross Village. Turn left on Lake Shore Drive to Lakeview Road at Sturgeon Bay and its sugar-sand beach and dunes. Information courtesy of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. For more detailed directions, visit the online brochure.
Old Mission Peninsula tour
On this 45-minute ride, follow the Old Mission Peninsula that extends 20 miles into Grand Traverse Bay. Along the way, witness a collection of orchards, vineyards, and fall color views along the bay. Stop at wineries and roadside fruit stands, and restaurants along the way. Check out the Traverse City Fall Color Tour Guide for more information.
More:Michigan's fall colors forecast: Week-by-week predictions
More:It's Michigan cider mill season: 22 to check out in 2022
Circle Lake Charlevoix
This carside tour is 35 miles and has a drive time length of approximately 50 minutes, plus possible waits for the bridge and ferry. On this tour, riders are encouraged to stop to explore sand dunes, hiking trails and the beach. For detailed directions on tour, visit the online brochure.
Little Traverse Wheelway
Bike, walk or blade the 26-mile paved trail from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix. The path explores parks, Bay Harbor, the waterfront and historic Bay View. There are several places along the way to pick up the trail. An overview behind D&W's Shopping Plaza on US 31 North offers a convenient rest stop or starting point.
West Michigan
Mt. Pigsah Dune Boardwalk in Holland
According to Holland's website, the dune east of the Holland State Park is accessible via a boardwalk and stair system. You can get an amazing look at fall foliage on the Mt. Pigsah Dune Boardwalk, which is 157 feet above Lake Michigan. On the boardwalk, there are breathtaking views of Lake Macatawa, marinas, Lake Michigan and the iconic Holland Harbor Lighthouse, known as Big Red.
Covered bridge in Ada
Take a walk back in time under the covered bridge in Ada. The original covered bridge dates back to 1867, and was the major thoroughfare through the area, according to the township's website. Nestled in Leonard Park, the covered bridge provides a good destination for fall foliage in West Michigan. Leonard Park is located at 7490 Thornapple Drive SE, Ada, MI.
Mid-Michigan
Lansing River Trail
Take in the fall foliage along the Grand and Red Cedar River. The trail system offers 13 miles of exploration. Check out the Brenke Fish Ladder, where spawning salmon and steelhead swim their way upstream during September. Parking is available along the trail.
Lansing to Ionia fall color tour
Follow this 155-mile voyage, best enjoyed early to late October with stops at state parks, cider mills and covered bridges. Follow detailed driving instructions here.
Southern Michigan
Hillsdale to Sturgis fall color tour
The driving color tour hits its peak from mid-to-late October, offering countryside quaint views. Stop in Coldwater at the Little River Railroad, offering themed hour and a half train tours. Also along the way, you can pick your own apples or grab cider and doughnuts from Glei's Orchards & Greenhouse in Hillsdale.
River Raisin in Monroe
Explore miles of trails along the River Raisin in Monroe, one of the most historic cities in Michigan.
