A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Here in Michigan, we take our road trips pretty seriously. The Wolverine State offers so much in the way of natural beauty, local businesses, and midwestern charm that it seems only fitting to hop in the car and explore every square mile. If you’re up for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure, we’ve put together a road trip that will take you to some of the most beautiful waterfalls and best wineries in Michigan.
The itinerary is over 700 miles of pure Michigan beauty, but don’t worry — we’ve pinpointed some great places to stay along the way so you can safely pace yourself and make the most of your adventure. Just be sure to get an early start, as the first leg of our trip will take you to no fewer than four gorgeous Upper Peninsula waterfalls before you’ll check into your room at a conveniently-located Best Western property in Michigan. Ready to get started on this unforgettable road trip in Michigan? Let’s go!
The first stop on this wine and waterfalls tour is the iconic Bond Falls. Located in southern Ontonagon County, this beautiful cascade is created by the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, which tumbles over rocks and creates the most stunning spectacle. The waterfall is approximately 50 feet tall and twice as wide. If you plan to see the falls on foot, the loop trail is approximately one mile long.
Curious about what to expect at Bond Falls? Check out this jaw-dropping video c/o YouTube User M Live:
Considered by many visitors to be the most beautiful waterfall in Michigan, Laughing Whitefish Falls is truly bucket-list-worthy. This mesmerizing waterfall can be found within Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, a recreation area of nearly 1,000 acres. The waterfall is surrounded by old-growth trees, providing an immersive experience in nature. Best of all, it's just 0.5 miles to get there from the parking area.
The next waterfall on our itinerary takes us into Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Munising Falls makes a dramatic 50-foot drop over a sandstone cliff. Visitors should note that compared to other waterfalls on this list, the amount of water flow is relatively small. The scenery, however, is positively spectacular. You'll reach the waterfall by following a quarter-mile paved walkway.
As you can see in the YouTube video c/o Michigan Rocks, this waterfall is absolutely magnificent in person!
Not far from Munising Falls, Miners Falls is another Upper Peninsula waterfall worth checking out. This striking waterfall is accessible via a 0.6-mile gravel pathway that leads to stairs to an overlook. You'll want to bring your camera with you for this one!
One of the best parts of traveling in Michigan is the chance to experience some incredible local businesses, and Mackinaw Trail Winery is one such example. It's here that you'll find a laid-back setting perfect for tasting some Michigan-made wine. And for those in the mood for something else, this tasting room venue also offers microbrews.
Michigan's Lower Peninsula doesn't have much in the way of waterfalls, but there is one exception: Ocqueoc Falls. Accessible via US-23, this beautiful landmark has a little something for everyone. It's here that you can enjoy a network of hiking trails and places to picnic.
Next up on our trip is another local winery you'll love: Bonobo Winery. It's over three hours from Ocqueoc Falls, but it's absolutely worth the journey. To break up the drive, you can spend the night at the Best Western Gaylord. Bonobo Winery describes itself as a "social gathering place" where visitors from all over can kick back and relax. After so many waterfall excursions, you'll have earned a good break! This boutique winery near Traverse City is positively beautiful. Plus, their offerings of red and white wine will impress just about any wine enthusiast.
Valley Mist Vineyards is a small-town winery with a lot to offer. Semi-sweet white wines, sweet white wines, dry red wines, and sweet red wines all await you inside this one-of-a-kind tasting room. And the best news of all? Tastings are free! You will, of course, be tempted to purchase a bottle after experiencing all that this local spot has to offer.
Our trip concludes with a visit to Black Fire Winery. Tucked away in a picturesque rural setting, this winery is the perfect place to reflect on your waterfall and winery road trip. The moment you arrive, you'll feel welcomed as though you were a local. Sample all kinds of quality Michigan-made wine and perhaps even rent a private igloo to share with your loved ones.
Need one last place to stay the night? There are plenty of Best Western properties near Detroit, such as the Best Western Woodhaven Inn.
What are your thoughts on this waterfall and wineries road trip in Michigan? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! And don’t forget to find the closest Best Western property near you for a convenient and restful place to stay as you travel.
Looking for more amazing wineries in MI? Our state is one of the best wine-growing regions in the country!
