Changing leaves herald the coming of autumn to Mackinaw City as early as mid-September. That's when forest roads and trails begin to hum with the crowds of nature lovers who come to enjoy the display in the Mackinaw City countryside.  The Mackinaw City area encompasses such a broad range of habitats that it's possible to stretch this most colorful of seasons into more than a month of celebration within its boundaries. The gold rush begins on the higher slopes Mackinac Island and the Tunnel of Trees just south of Mackinaw City as  leaves change to amber while summer is still in the air. From there the transformation gradually migrates to crimson and then to fuchsia maples around the hills of Mackinaw City.   The climax of this parade of color generally occurs around the first  week of October, but remnants of reds, oranges and golds linger as late as mid-November in French Farm near Mackinaw City.

The Northwestern Michigan fall color tour includes hilly, forested countryside, charming resort towns nestled along the sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan, breathtaking views, fresh air and colorful wildlife.

Fall sweeps across Michigan and the Mackinaw City area in broad strokes of color. Discover perfect places to relax, renew and reconnect. Fall is the best time to savor quiet pleasures from beaches to fine restaurants, farm markets and art galleries of Mackinaw City.

Beginning mid-September and stretching through the end of October, the colors of autumn peak at varying times in the Mackinaw City area. Mackinaw City is the perfect place to visit to be close to all of the season's sights and sounds.

Enjoy Fall Colors Biking or Hiking Mackinac Island

With no cars or motorized vehicles, bicycles are a popular way of getting around on Mackinac Island. Bikes are a great way way to travel some of the 70-plus miles of trails on Mackinac Island and immerse yourself in the beautiful fall colors. There are all sorts of routes to take through the Mackinac Island State Park forest. You can also all the way around the island, with vibrantly colored leaves on one side and shimmering blue waters on the other.

Many of the same trails that are good for biking around and through Mackinac Island also are great for hiking. One of the island’s best hikes is the Tranquil Bluff Trail that courses through the forest along the eastern shore, on the edge of cliffs high above Lake Huron. Or, set off to find Mackinac Island's legendary rock formations in the state park forest.

Colorful Kayaking

One of the most enjoyable and relaxing ways to enjoy the beautiful changing fall colors is out on the water. The Mackinaw City shorelines of both Lake Huron and Lake Michigan provide ample views of the fall foliage in September and October. The slightly cooler temperatures of fall also provide a gorgeous reflection of color on calm days. A kayak is the perfect way to enjoy the scenery at your own pace while providing plenty of photo opportunities.

Fall Colors on a Relaxing Drive down the Tunnel of Trees

The drive down Northern Michigan's M-119, nicknamed of "Tunnel of Trees", is beautiful any time of the year as is considered to be Michigan's #1 scenic drive. During the peak of fall is when this gem of a scenic drive really shows its true colors! The changing colors of hardwood trees provide a vivid and colorful canopy as you travel the winding road beneath, while also at times providing breath-taking views of Lake Michigan.

Points of interest along the way include views of Beaver Island and area lighthouses, as well as historic highway markers and “Devil’s Elbow”. Legend has it that the infamous Devil's Elbow, one of two hairpin turns just south of Good Hart, was believed to be the home of an evil spirit that haunted the ravine. The Old Council Tree marker notes the location of former indian tribe council gatherings. Fall is not complete in Northern Michigan without a trip along M-119. Take this road north through the trees and you'll know why this route is often named the best drive in Michigan!

Fall Colors at Tahquamenon Falls!

Tahquamenon Falls State Park encompasses close to 50,000 acres stretching over 13 miles. Most of this is undeveloped woodland without roads, buildings or power lines. Hike the park to take in the colors and stop by the Tahquamenon River with its waterfalls: Tahquamenon Falls. The spectacular color of the falls perfectly matches the fall foliage.

The park is home to more than 35 miles of trails and multiple overlooks to the Upper and Lower Falls so you can both enjoy all of the area's natural beauty while taking in all the sights and sounds of the season.