Fall is upon us here in the Great Lakes State, and that means autumn colors are soon to be in full bloom. There’s nothing more delightful than walking along a path covered in crisp leaves or staring up at vibrant foliage from your own backyard. But there are so many other ways to explore the beauty of fall here in Michigan, and we’ve listed nine unique places from which to check out brilliant autumn colors throughout our gorgeous state.
1. From a chairlift at Crystal Mountain
Observe a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape during a scenic chairlift ride at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville. During this one-of-a-kind excursion, you’ll be lifted high above the trees and dropped off at a mountaintop locale for live music, drinks, and tons of autumn fun. Learn more by clicking
here .
2. From a boat ride at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks is a stunning spot to explore year-round, but there’s something undeniably special about checking it out when fall rolls around. The cliff sides bloom with autumn colors as leaves appear on trees throughout the area. Through mid-October, you’ll be able to observe this beauty from a boat on the cool water of Lake Superior. Click
here for more information.
3. From a drive through the Tunnel of Trees
If you’ve never taken a drive through the Tunnel of Trees, you’re absolutely missing out on one of Michigan’s hidden gems. Stretching along M-119 from Harbor Springs to Cross Village, this winding road takes drivers under seemingly endless fall foliage and alongside waterfront bluffs. It really doesn’t get much more beautiful than this.
4. From a journey down Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
You’ve likely checked out Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, but have you made the journey during autumn? When fall arrives in Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes blooms with vibrant foliage and draws in plenty of visitors who want to marvel at dune-top views of Lake Michigan while basking in the loveliness of the chillier season. Take a tip along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for some of the most breathtaking scenes imaginable.
5. From a canoe or kayak along the Huron River
Whether you bring your own kayak or rent a canoe from the Gallup Park or Argo Canoe Livery, you’re sure to have a blast paddling your way down the beautiful waters of the Huron River. Through the end of October, visitors can hit the water and float through marvelous fall foliage while basking in the calm atmosphere of the river itself. What’s not to love? Find our more by clicking
here .
6. From a bicycle ride around Mackinac Island
If you’ve ever visited Mackinac Island, you know that it boasts one of the most magical atmospheres imaginable. During autumn, the island comes to life with the appearance of reds, browns, yellows, and oranges across the treetops. Rent a bicycle and take a scenic ride around the coast of the island for an absolutely marvelous fall experience — this is Michigan nature at its finest.
7. From beside a waterfall at Tahquamenon Falls
Few spots in the Great Lakes State offer a majesty comparable to that of Tahquamenon Falls, and there’s a reason this site stands out as one of Michigan’s most popular and famous destinations. If you choose to visit in the fall, you’ll watch as the colorful foliage adds an extra layer of charm and beauty to the rushing water of the falls themselves. Be sure to bring your camera — this is one of the most scenic spots imaginable.
8. From a lookout point along Brockway Mountain Drive
If you find yourself waaay north in the Upper Peninsula, be sure to pay a visit to Brockway Mountain Drive this fall. During your drive, stop to peer out at seemingly endless acres of the Keweenaw Peninsula, observe autumn colors as they roll on forever, and marvel at glimpses of Lake Superior. You'll truly wonder if you've been transported to another world.
9. From a campsite at Warren Dunes State Park
Who says camping is just for the summer months? There are plenty of spots to camp throughout Michigan during the fall, but Warren Dunes State Park is an obvious favorite. With ample opportunities to stroll along the waterfront or through the surrounding forested beauty, you’ll feel as though you’re spending time in an autumn wonderland. Camping has never been so beautiful!
Where’s your favorite spot in Michigan to observe stunning fall foliage? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, and happy autumn!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.