You might have embarked on a scenic drive or two during your time in the Great Lakes State, but there’s always something new and underrated to discover. Whether you’re a nature fanatic or simply an adventurous soul, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to learn about an oft-overlooked coastal region of our state. Round up a travel buddy, hop in the car, and explore one of the most scenic drives in Michigan with us!

If you’ve spent time in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you know that the region is overflowing with hidden treasures and natural gems.
Google Maps
One such Michigan gem is M-35, a stunning stretch of roadway that will surely impress.
While many Michiganders have driven along the west coast of the Lower Peninsula to appreciate Lake Michigan views...
Google Maps
...few have spent time visiting the lake’s northwestern shore – that’s where M-35 comes in.
This state highway meanders along the Little Bay de Noc and other inlets of our beloved “Big Lake.”
Flickr/Deb Nystrom
Along the way, it offers ample opportunities for recreation and vibrant vistas. Your journey will extend for about 62 miles one-way.
Begin the drive around the town of Gladstone, where US-41 and M-35 meet.
Facebook/City of Gladstone
And don’t forget to bring along plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and a ​​camera to capture the many wonders of this waterfront road trip.

Related Stories

Explore Michigan's Best Waterfalls And Wineries On This Multi-Day Road Trip

Explore Michigan's Best Waterfalls And Wineries On This Multi-Day Road Trip

Paid Content Best Western
A See-It-All Michigan Road Trip Is Right Here And It's A Fun-Filled Adventure

A See-It-All Michigan Road Trip Is Right Here And It's A Fun-Filled Adventure

 The 2-Hour Road Trip Along Alger County’s Waterfall Trail Is A Glorious Spring Adventure In Michigan

The 2-Hour Road Trip Along Alger County’s Waterfall Trail Is A Glorious Spring Adventure In Michigan
This portion of Lake Michigan is sometimes called its Hidden Coast.
Google Maps/ReCompose Media
Kick things off with a stop at Gladstone’s Van Cleve Park, which boasts a lovely beach, a large playground, and much more.
As you continue your drive, take time to stop in Escanaba for a bit of exploration at Ludington Park.
Google Maps/Joshua André
Or at the Escanaba Dog Park, where your four-legged pals can play. Sand Point Lighthouse is another gem.
The drive down M-35 extends onward, giving way to breathtaking views of the water and offering pit stops in Cedar River.
Todd Dahlquist/Google Maps
It also meanders past J. W. Wells State Park in Stephenson (pictured above), and, ultimately, the marvelous Menominee area.
Visit the West Shore Fishing Museum or John Henes Park in Menominee, which borders Wisconsin, before heading back or extending your journey in a new direction.
Google Maps/Lindsay Sondelski
M-35 is sure to become a new favorite route along the Michigan coast.

You can find more details about one of the most scenic drives in Michigan, along with other must-explore byways in the state, by reading this online brochure from the Pure Michigan Byways and Tour Routes Driving Guide.

Have you and your loved ones ventured down M-35 between Gladstone and Menominee during previous Upper Peninsula outings? If so, what was your favorite part? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below! You can also leave a Facebook comment or recommend another impressive Michigan road trip by completing our official nomination form.

Not in the mood to drive yourself? You’ll want to read about this historic trolley ride in Michigan.

If you’re still in the mood for more Michigan adventures, take a look at this video:

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Michigan 35, M-35, Escanaba, MI, USA