Fall colors are only in the Eastern Upper Peninsula for a brief part of the year, but they create sights you’ll be delighted with for years to come thanks to a smattering of harvest season hues.
*All of these photos are from past years.*
Once you’re north of the Mackinac Bridge, you can’t go wrong with the fall colors. If you have a minute, check out a few of our suggestions for prime locations to take in the changing leaves.
The first key bit of information is to get off of Interstate-75! Yes, it will get you north faster, but the Mackinac Trail runs parallel to I-75 and it’s a better view for the season. This lovely drive will take you all the way to the Soo.
Once you reach Sault Ste. Marie, you have to make a stop at the Soo Locks Park. The park is filled with a wide variety of trees that produce a stunning array of colors.
Heading west, your GPS is going to want you to take M-28, but ignore it and take 6 Mile/Lake Shore Drive/Curley Lewis Memorial Highway. Again, you’ll be going a little slower, but it gives you a chance to soak in the colors. You can also stop at Mission Hill Overlook and Point Iroquois Lighthouse overlooking Lake Superior.
This highway of stunning fall color will lead you west. If you’re going to venture to the end of the road, you might as well make a day of it and go north for the granddaddy of all fall color, Tahquamenon Falls. The Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers the upper falls, the lower falls, and miles of hiking in between.
Fall doesn’t last long in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula so hurry up and get here. However, when you arrive, slow down and enjoy all Sault Ste. Marie has to offer. Explore our amazing local dining and stay a night or two at these great hotels to experience our northern hospitality.