Are you someone who enjoys going for walks? Do you appreciate breath-taking vistas? And what about stunning rock formations that leave you marveling at nature’s beauty? OK, stay with us; you’re going to like this. Located on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, the crown jewel of the Great Lakes, is a trail that leads you through a quaint downtown, past a historic military fort from the 1700s, along the coast, and to the magnificent Arch Rock. The Arch is composed of natural limestone and was organically sculpted by a prehistoric proglacial lake. Yes, you read that correctly – a prehistoric lake. But, let’s bring it back to the present and talk about this highly recommended trail that’s home to the most awe-inspiring rock formations in Michigan.

The Arch Rock via Shoreline Trail and Spring Trail starts in the heart of the downtown at the Mackinac Island State Park Visitors Center.
Mike Trovato/AllTrails
The 2.3-mile loop trail is rated as easy and takes just under an hour to complete. While the trail is very well-manicured and is mostly flat, we still recommend you wear proper walking or hiking shoes. With an elevation gain of only 183 feet, it’s a great hike for the whole family. And, yes, that includes your furry friends, so long as they are kept on a leash.
The trail will bring you face-to-face with Lake Huron, giving you up-close views of its vibrant turquoise water and rock-lined coast.
Danyel OHail/AllTrails
A bit later on the trail, you can take a pit stop at Fort Mackinac – a former British and American military base that opened in 1782.
randytate/ iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images

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As you continue your journey onward and begin to gain elevation, you will be warmly greeted by expansive views of Lake Huron and…
Kelsey Wilcox/AllTrails
the lake’s neighboring cliffs and rock formations.
Mike Trovato /AllTrails
If you plan your hike around the sunset, you will be perfectly situated to watch the sun slowly melt into Lake Huron’s horizon, and enjoy the sherbet-colored skies it leaves behind.
Samantha Higgins /AllTrails
Sunsets aside, the real star of the show is none other than the awe-inspiring geological formation, Arch Rock. Your jaw will drop by these Michigan rock formations!
Kristen Hilderbrand / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images

It’s no surprise Arch Rock is what attracts the majority of the island’s visitors – the majestic formation stands over 100 feet above the water and is more than 50 feet wide. The Arch has been admired by Native Americans, by Euro-Americans during the 1800s, and smartphone-wielding folks, like you!

Have you visited Arch Rock before? Do you remember what you thought when you first saw these epic rock formations in Michigan?

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Featured Addresses
Mackinac Island State Park Visitors Center, 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA