Road Trip Through Michigan’s Lower Peninsula
I may be a little biased, as I grew up spending a week at our family cabin in Michigan each summer, but to me it is one of the most underrated nature destinations in eastern US.
Michigan is full of unexpected beauty and adventure
Michigan has an abundance of beautiful landscapes and exciting towns/cities. From lakes and sand dunes to wineries and city lights, Michigan has something for all ages. Our road trip was a fun mix of breweries/wineries and adventures in nature.
Frankenmuth
Michigan’s little Bavaria is a must stop on a lower peninsula road trip. Frankenmuth is easily toured in an afternoon, but if you’d like to stay longer there is plenty to occupy your time.
Walking the streets is an activity in itself. With beautiful architecture and quaint shops, there is so much to see.
For a year round Christmas escape, visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
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Turnip Rock
Turnip Rock is located Port Austin, MI. Port Austin Kayak offers single and tandem kayak rentals along with route maps so you can explore turnip rock and the nearby caves on your own.
Unfortunately, we did not get to explore turnip rock since we had Kiya with us. She loves hiking, but doesn’t exactly have her “sea legs.” However, this gorgeous spot is on my bucket list and would be a great addition to a lower peninsula road trip for the adventure lover.
Lumberman's Monument
Located in Oscoda Township, this monument honors the workers of Michigan’s early logging industry and is part of the USDA Forest Service.
Located on River Rd of Highway 23 when coming from Oscoda
In the summer months the rangers host activities for kids. There are picnic spaces, camping spots, clean restrooms, and monuments with plaques telling about the logging process. You can access the river below via wooden stairs or by taking a short hike to the sand dune. But beware, you have to climb back up!
Iargo Springs
Iargo Springs in one of my favorite Michigan hikes. Honestly, it’s really more of a scenic walk on a boardwalk overlooking the Au Sable River. But due to the quantity of steps you have to navigate to get down to the main area, it can be tiring.
Drive 10 min past Lumberman’s Monument to Iargo Springs
Iargo Springs can be completed in 1-2 hours. There is not many food options nearby, so either pack a lunch and eat at one of the picnic tables, or wait until you get back into town. Oscoda, Au Sable, and Tawas are the closest towns. All of which are located on Lake Huron.
Iargo Springs makes you feel like you’re in a magical forest, despite it’s proximity to the road.
Take a walk in Iargo Springs
Traverse City
Drive 2.5 hours East to Traverse City for your next Michigan road trip destination, Traverse City. Located on Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse city has a variety of outdoor activities, diverse restaurants, and beautiful scenery.
For amazing pizza, try The Filling Station Microbrewery!
Explore the downtown Boardman River & River Walk via Cass Street and then hit the bay on a kayak or boat tour. You can explore the rest of the city on the Traverse Area Recreational Trail (TART).
P.S. Traverse City is incredibly dog friendly!
Old Mission Peninsula
Home to 10 wineries, the Old Mission Peninsula is a perfect route for a day of wine tasting. Only 19 miles between Traverse City and the tip of the Peninsula, route route is compact and requires minimal driving between stops.
Tip: Stop by the Old Mission Lighthouse at the tip of the Peninsula to take a break from wine tasting a dip your toes in the Bay.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Sleeping Bear Dunes is part of the National Park Service; stop by the visitors center to get your park permit. For a map of the park click here.
If you have more time: Take a ferry to either of the Manitou Islands where you can find remote campgrounds and more hiking trails.
Once in the park there is plenty of options for your enjoyment. Hike to Sleeping Bear Point on the rolling sand dunes that lead to Lake Michigan. Take on the popular Dune Climb. Or drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for some amazing scenery and another chance to conquer a sand dune!
Trip Must See
They call the eastern side of Michigan “The Sunrise Side.” And for good reason too! The sunrises over Lake Huron are some of the most beautiful I have seen. It may make for an early morning, but I promise you it will be worth it!
Where is your favorite Michigan spot?
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