Fantastic fall colors: Where to go leaf peeping in Michigan
It’s leaf-peeping season in Michigan, and we have your official Gander Guide to where (and when) to see the best fall colors.
Fall in Michigan is the absolute best season, whether you’re a born-and-bred Michigander or just visitin’ the mitten to enjoy some fall colors. While the long summer nights and sandy beach days may be a close competition, there is just something about Michigan in the fall—the colors, the crisp air, the cider mills, and that last, long, deep breath before winter settles in for, well, a long time.
If you’re new here or just haven’t had the chance to really explore all our state has to offer in the fall, let us be your guide with this official unofficial Gander Guide to leaf peeping in Michigan. In general, the colors tend to “bloom” earliest from the northern areas of the state and travel south, so if you’re following the track of the season, start north, then work your way down to catch the fall colors all season long.
Here are some Michigan sites where you can start your leaf-peeping this fall.
Tunnel of Trees
M 119, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Peak colors: Oct 17-24
The Tunnel of Trees is one of Michigan’s most famous leaf-peeping destinations. It’s a 20-mile scenic stretch of road that takes drivers along the Lake Michigan shoreline through Harbor Springs.
The Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau even has a full Tunnel of Trees digital brochure to help you plan your trip and check out some interesting stops along the way. For instance, if you’re looking for something to you in the spooky season spirit, you may want to plan a stop at Motchimanitou, known as the “Devil’s Elbow” and said to be the home of the spirits who emerged in the darkness by the Odawa Indians who named the area.
A note: The Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau does caution that some of the driving along the Tunnel of Trees is a very narrow two-lane road that may be difficult for larger vehicles to navigate.
Harbor Springs
Peak colors: Oct 17-24
We love Harbor Springs so much that we voted it the best small town to spend a fall day in Michigan. This picturesque town has it all: rolling hills, scenic views, a charming downtown, a gorgeous waterfront, and all the bustling small-town activities, like their annual Fall Fest weekends or Harvest Fest that would give Stars Hollow a run for its money.
North Country National Scenic Trail
Western/Southern Michigan
Peak colors: Oct 20-24
The North Country National Scenic Trail is not just a Michigan attraction—it’s actually a 4,800-mile trail that runs through 8 different states, with a stretch through the west side of the state. There are many access points and segmented hikes to take along the trail in Michigan, so you can make your own adventure here (keep in mind the trail is volunteer-run and maintained). Or, if you want a suggestion, try hopping on through the Lost Nation State Game Area, which has a 7-mile stretch of trail through the southern Michigan towns of Battle Creek, Albion, Marshall, and Lowell.
No matter what part of the scenic trail you hike, you’re bound to partake in some serious Michigan leaf peeping along the way.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Peak colors: Oct 4-Oct 15
Tahquamenon Falls is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, so visiting it will take some planning, as the UP can be pretty rustic. Plan ahead where you’ll stay or visit a local campground. It’s also a good idea to pack some meals and snacks, as dining can be limited, too. However, a little pre-planning is totally worth it, as the Falls are absolutely breathtaking in the fall.
(Note that there is some construction at the campgrounds and some of the stairs leading to the upper falls right now.)
Mackinac Island
Peak colors: Oct 5-Oct 17
I’m partial to Mackinac Island in the fall, because my now-husband proposed to me on the island in the fall, but even without a proposal, the sight of Mackinac in the autumn is swoon-worthy. Staying on the island is definitely the best way to soak up the fall colors from daylight to dusk (we recommend The Mackinac House, but there are many wonderful places to stay!), but no matter where you stay, the ferry ride alone will be worth the trip to see the island at peak fall color resplendence.
Traverse City
Peak colors: Oct 15-Oct 25
I’m also a huge fan of Traverse City in the fall (well, me and basically everyone). The area’s rolling hills are flocked with gorgeous trees bursting forth with fall colors. Plus, the endless wineries, charming downtown, and waterfront marina make it the ideal place to slow down, sip, and stroll while enjoying some leaf peeping. We recommend a stop at Chateau Chantal and Mawby for some majestic views.
Sault Ste. Marie Tower of History
Peak colors: Oct 4-Oct 15
Sault Ste. Marie is Michigan’s oldest city and it also boasts an observation deck (accessible via an elevator or 292 stairs) that takes visitors up to a 210-foot tower. From that high vantage point, you can indulge in some serious leaf-peeping of Michigna’s eastern Upper Peninsula and even into Ontario. Plus, the Tower of History has a small museum on the lower level that explores the Native American history of the area.
North Branch, MI
Peak colors: Oct 19-Oct 29
This small Southeastern town may not be on any tourist guide, but it’s packed full of leaf-peeping potential. Whether you stroll a local dirt road, visit a country farm to pick some pumpkins, or book a stay at an authentic farmhouse, you’re sure to enjoy a relaxed fall experience.
M-25 Bluewater Highway
Peak colors: Peak colors: Oct 19-Oct 29
If you’re looking to stay on the SE side of Michigan, a scenic drive along the Bluewater highway is calling your name. This drive follows the shoreline of Lake Huron from Port Huron through Lexington, which are two stops worth visiting on their own. You’ll also drive through the small waterfront towns along SE Michigan, like Caseville, Port Austin, and Harbor Beach, all with their own charm and attractions.
To stretch your legs, stop in Lexington for a stroll on their marina and enjoy a bite to eat at the waterfront Windjammer’s restaurant.
Virtual leaf peeping in Michigan
Peak colors: All season long
Can’t make it out of the house this fall? No problem, because Michigan has several webcams set up at various scenic fall points throughout the state. You can check out live webcams from Western Michigan to the Mackinaw Bridge to eastern MI sites like Port Huron and Frankenmuth.
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