As the leaves change, Michigan becomes a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Recently, AFAR announced the Upper Peninsula as one of the best places for fall foliage, and itâs easy to see why. But the beauty of autumn isnât confined to just one region. From the Upper Peninsula to the southernmost parts of the state, Michigan offers some of the most breathtaking fall drives in the country. Join us as we explore the best routes to experience the magic of fall in Pure Michigan.
Upper Peninsula: A Fall Foliage Paradise
The Upper Peninsula is a must-visit for any fall foliage enthusiast. With its vast forests and rugged landscapes, this region offers some of the most spectacular autumn views. Drive along the Lake Superior Circle Tour, which takes you through Sault Ste. Marie, Marquette, and the Keweenaw Peninsula, showcasing the brilliant colors of the season. Donât miss the Tunnel of Trees on M-119 in Emmet County, where the old trees form a stunning canopy over the road.
Here are some of our favorite stops in the fall:
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park – Located in Paradise, this park features the impressive Upper and Lower Falls, surrounded by vibrant autumn colors.
- Lake of the Clouds, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State ParkâThis iconic destination offers breathtaking views of the lake, which reflects the brilliant fall foliage.
- Brockway Mountain Drive, Copper Harbor – A 9.5-mile drive that provides panoramic views of the Keweenaw Peninsulaâs bold yellows and reds against the blue autumn sky.
- Kitch-iti-kipi, Manistique – Known as the âBig Spring,â this natural freshwater spring is surrounded by spectacular fall colors, making it a must-visit spot.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising – The dramatic cliffs and rock formations are even more stunning when framed by the vibrant fall foliage.
- Presque Isle River Trails, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – This 2.3-mile loop trail offers beautiful views of the river and waterfalls, enhanced by the autumn colors.
- Fayette Historic State Park, Garden – This park combines historical charm with beautiful fall scenery, offering a unique experience.
- Sugarloaf Mountain, Marquette – A short hike to the summit rewards you with sweeping views of the fall landscape and Lake Superior.
- Tobin Harbor, Isle Royale National Park – Although it requires some planning, this remote destination offers a serene and colorful fall experience.
Northern Michigan: Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems
Northern Michigan is home to some of the stateâs most scenic drives. Traverse the M-22 highway along Michiganâs Gold Coast, starting in Traverse City and winding through Northport and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore1. This route offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and vibrant fall colors. The area is also rich in Hemingway history, adding a literary touch to your journey.
 Here are some quaint towns to visit:
- Mackinac Island – Known for its horse-drawn carriage tours and bike rides, Mackinac Island offers stunning views of fall colors against the backdrop of Lake Huron.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – This area features sandy beaches, incredible nature trails, and unbeatable views of Lake Michigan, making it a must-visit during the fall.
- Tunnel of Trees (M-119) – This scenic drive in Emmet County is famous for its canopy of vibrant fall leaves, creating a picturesque tunnel effect.
- Traverse City – Enjoy apple picking, craft beer tasting, and scenic drives through this charming area’s rolling hills and vineyards.
- Leelanau Peninsula – Known for its wineries and scenic drives, this area offers breathtaking views of fall foliage along the M-22 highway.
- Charlevoix – With its beautiful lakes and charming downtown, Charlevoix is a perfect spot for a fall getaway.
- Petoskey – This historic town offers stunning views of Little Traverse Bay and is surrounded by beautiful fall colors.
- Glen Arbor – Located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor offers scenic drives and outdoor activities amidst vibrant fall foliage.Â
West Michigan: Coastal Colors and Wine Trails
West Michiganâs shoreline is a picturesque backdrop for a fall drive. The West Michigan Pike (US-31) connects charming beach towns like St. Joseph, South Haven, and Holland. Enjoy the rolling hills of Lake Michigan Shore Wine Country, where you can stop at award-winning wineries. The combination of coastal colors and vineyard vistas makes this drive unforgettable. Check out this previous article that explores Michigan Grapes, Wine Trails, and a special bed and breakfast in the area.
Here are some highlights of what you coastal town has to offer:
- Holland – Known for its Dutch heritage, Holland offers beautiful fall colors along its scenic drives and parks. Donât miss the Windmill Island Gardens and Holland State Park.
- Saugatuck-Douglas – These art-centric towns are perfect for a fall getaway, with charming streets, galleries, and stunning views of the Kalamazoo River.
- Grand Rapids – Visit Robinetteâs Apple Haus and Winery for apple picking, cider tasting, and a corn maze. The city also hosts ArtPrize, an international art competition that adds a creative touch to your fall visit.
- Muskegon – Enjoy the fall colors at Muskegon State Park and drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
- South Haven – Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fall colors, South Haven also hosts Pumpkinfest at Van Buren State Park, where you can camp under the autumn canopy.
- Kalamazoo – Explore the hiking trails at Gull Meadows Farm and enjoy their fall festivals, corn mazes, and apple orchard.
- Allegan – Visit the Allegan State Game Area for a peaceful hike through the woods, surrounded by brilliant fall foliage.
These spots offer a mix of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and charming towns, making Western Michigan a perfect destination for enjoying the beauty of fall.
Southeast Michigan Urban Escapes
Even in the more urbanized areas of Southeast Michigan, fall foliage is a sight to behold. Take a day trip from Detroit to explore local parks and nearby scenic routes. The Huron River Drive offers a peaceful escape with its winding roads and vibrant autumn colors. Donât forget to visit the historic towns and cultural landmarks along the way.
Here are some of our favorite stops:
- Kensington Metropark, Milford – This park features over 4,000 acres of scenic beauty, with trails that wind through colorful forests and around picturesque lakes.
- Stony Creek Metropark, Shelby Township – With its rolling hills and serene lake, this park is perfect for a fall hike or bike ride.
- Detroit Riverwalk, DetroitâEnjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, which is surrounded by stunning fall colors and the city skyline.
- Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills – This park offers beautiful trails and a peaceful setting to take in the autumn hues.
- Waterloo Recreation Area, Chelsea – Explore the largest park in the Lower Peninsula, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant fall foliage.
- Cranbrook Gardens, Bloomfield Hills – These meticulously maintained gardens are a perfect spot for a fall visit, with colorful trees and serene pathways.
- Indian Springs Metropark, White LakeâThis park offers a mix of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, all of which showcase brilliant fall colors.
- Belle Isle Park, Detroit – This island park in the Detroit River features beautiful fall foliage, historic landmarks, and scenic views. (shown above)
- Addison Oaks Park, Leonard – With its lakes and extensive trail system, this park is excellent for enjoying the fall scenery.
- Bald Mountain Recreation Area, Lake Orion – Known for its rugged terrain and beautiful fall colors, this park is ideal for hiking and nature walks2
Stay with Us: Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association Members
Enhance your fall foliage adventure by staying at one of the many charming bed and breakfasts, inns, cabins, or boutique hotels of the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association. Our members throughout Pure Michigan offer unique and cozy accommodations that perfectly complement your scenic drives. Youâll find a welcoming B&B to rest and recharge when exploring the Upper Peninsula or the southern regions. Â The above picture was taken last fall at the Vintage Inn and Veritas Estate in South Haven. Your hosts at this unique bed and breakfast include a professional chef and a sommelier. As one can imagine, breakfasts are pretty extraordinary, and the couple also hosts private dinners with wine tasting.Â
 Our new #MichBnB website is filled with information about these areas, and we have added a helpful map for you to chart out your next Pure Michigan Fall Getaway. Here is the link. Just scroll down until you come to the map area with links to the five different regions in Michigan.Â
