There's No Bridge In The World Quite Like This One In Michigan
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Sophie Boudreau
Author
Mackinac Island boasts an endless array of natural and man-made attractions, but there’s one spot that stands out as a favorite among visitors. Arch Rock, an ancient geologic formation, creates what is known as a “natural bridge.” While this bridge isn’t quite as long as the world-famous Mackinac Bridge, it still stands tall as one of the island’s must-see features.
Arch Rock is located in the southeast section of Mackinac Island and can be accessed by several modes of transportation — view it via kayak, by bicycle, or even by one of the island’s horse-drawn carriages with a short hike to follow.
The natural bridge itself towers 146 feet into the air over the sparkling freshwater waves below. It is made of limestone breccia, a material that is extremely rare and seldom found in the Great Lakes region.
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Arch Rock is more than just a stunning sight to behold. It also boasts a fascinating history that’s ripe with mysterious legends and traditions. In fact, Native Americans in the area once believed that the formation was created when the Creator blew life into the earth and thus regarded it with great honor.
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In 1875, Mackinac Island was established as a national park, though its status was later changed to state park in the 1980s. Arch Rock was a key element in the establishment of the island’s tourism sector.
Today, visitors to the island are thrilled by the natural bridge’s towering beauty and revel in the seemingly endless view from the top. From the highest point at Arch Rock, Canada is visible in the distance.
So don’t let anyone tell you that the Mackinac Bridge is Michigan’s only breathtaking bridge. Arch Rock is just as awe-inspiring — and its construction crew came straight from nature.
Is the view from Arch Rock just as stunning in person as it is in these photos? Tell us about your visits to this magical spot in the comment section!
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