If you’re a longtime Michigander, you’ve undoubtedly explored some of our state’s scenic routes throughout the years. From M-22 to the US-12 Heritage Route, there’s no shortage of road trip material here in the Great Lakes State. One beautiful route, however, often flies under the radar of Michiganders and tourists alike. When you’re ready to expand your horizons and take in brilliant vistas, hop in the car and enjoy this unforgettable road trip in Michigan. With under an hour and a half of driving, this Michigan road trip is doable for most, but make sure to allow some extra time to absorb the mind-blowing scenery.
It’s no secret that Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is chock full of beauty. While many visitors choose to head due north and check out destinations along Lake Superior, we’ve got an alternative route to share.
Google Maps
Eastbound M-134 begins just north of St. Ignace and extends all the way to Drummond Island, one of the state’s most underappreciated destinations. If you’re searching for scenic drives in Michigan, look no further.
Google Maps
Upon crossing the Mackinac Bridge, simply continue northward on I-75 until you reach Exit 359 onto M-134. It’s here that you’ll begin your journey along a 50-mile stretch of waterfront splendor and views.
Flickr/Charles Dawley
M-134 follows the shore of Lake Huron, offering rugged lookouts and seemingly endless charm along the way. As you pass Hessel and Cedarville, you’ll even catch glimpses of the Les Cheneaux Islands.
Flickr/Pat Kight
Of course, you might want to stretch your legs after spending time in the car. During your drive, you’ll have easy access to hiking spots like Gerstacker Nature Preserve and John Arthur Wollam Preserve.
Flickr/Charles Dawley
As you continue eastbound, watch for signs welcoming you to DeTour Village. This tiny but charming locale is home to DeTour State Forest Campground, which is the perfect place for a relaxing overnight stay.
Google Reviews/Jaclyn Evans
Take time to snap a few panoramic photos and appreciate the fresh air at DeTour Village Botanical Gardens before heading onward to Drummond Island. You’ll need to take a car ferry to make the journey across.
Google Reviews/Lisa Cody
Whether you continue your exploration on the island or head home after reaching the DeTour area, one thing is for sure: a peaceful drive along M-134 will reconnect you with nature, man-made charm, and more. We truly believe it is one of the best road trips in America!
Flickr/G Witteveen
Have you and your loved ones made the trip along M-134 from St. Ignace during previous Upper Peninsula journeys? What were some of your favorite sights along the way? Let us know by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another top-notch scenic drive in Michigan by completing our official nomination form.
Google Maps
Flickr/Charles Dawley
Flickr/Pat Kight
Google Reviews/Jaclyn Evans
Google Reviews/Lisa Cody
Flickr/G Witteveen
When taking a road trip, you want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible, which is why you need our road trip packing list! This list covers absolutely anything you may need to road trip in luxury, while also keeping you prepared for any potential emergencies while traveling.
Hoping to experience a different region of the state? You’ll want to read about another beautiful road trip in Michigan. This trip is over twelve hours worth of driving, so we recommend breaking it up over a few days so you can really take in the scenery along the eight stops.
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Address: Michigan 134, M-134, Cedarville, MI, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Explore Michigan December 30, 2022 Sara Dager What are the best road trips in Michigan that I can go on? Michigan has so much impressive scenery to marvel at, meaning there are a lot of different road trips in Michigan that you can take to really discover the state, such as:
The Michigan lighthouses road trip The Michigan waterfalls road trip The haunted places in Michigan road trip The natural wonders in Michigan road trip The abandoned places in Michigan road trip
Which hikes in Michigan are the most beautiful? If you are looking for a rewarding view at the end of your trekking, these scenic Michigan hikes are exactly what you’re looking for:
Pelizzari Nature Center Trails Pine Baron Pathway Highbanks Trail Empire Bluff Trail Bow in the Clouds Preserve
Are there any scenic train rides in Michigan that I can take? You can take a few different scenic train rides in Michigan depending on the season. Some of the best Michigan train rides are:
Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad Tahquamenon Falls Wilderness Excursion Steam Railroading Institute Coopersville and Marne Railway
The OIYS Visitor Center
Explore Michigan
December 30, 2022
Sara Dager
What are the best road trips in Michigan that I can go on? Michigan has so much impressive scenery to marvel at, meaning there are a lot of different road trips in Michigan that you can take to really discover the state, such as:
The Michigan lighthouses road trip The Michigan waterfalls road trip The haunted places in Michigan road trip The natural wonders in Michigan road trip The abandoned places in Michigan road trip
Which hikes in Michigan are the most beautiful? If you are looking for a rewarding view at the end of your trekking, these scenic Michigan hikes are exactly what you’re looking for:
Pelizzari Nature Center Trails Pine Baron Pathway Highbanks Trail Empire Bluff Trail Bow in the Clouds Preserve
Are there any scenic train rides in Michigan that I can take? You can take a few different scenic train rides in Michigan depending on the season. Some of the best Michigan train rides are:
Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad Tahquamenon Falls Wilderness Excursion Steam Railroading Institute Coopersville and Marne Railway
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Michigan has so much impressive scenery to marvel at, meaning there are a lot of different road trips in Michigan that you can take to really discover the state, such as:
- The Michigan lighthouses road trip
- The Michigan waterfalls road trip
- The haunted places in Michigan road trip
- The natural wonders in Michigan road trip
- The abandoned places in Michigan road trip
Which hikes in Michigan are the most beautiful?
If you are looking for a rewarding view at the end of your trekking, these scenic Michigan hikes are exactly what you’re looking for:
- Pelizzari Nature Center Trails
- Pine Baron Pathway
- Highbanks Trail
- Empire Bluff Trail
- Bow in the Clouds Preserve
Are there any scenic train rides in Michigan that I can take?
You can take a few different scenic train rides in Michigan depending on the season. Some of the best Michigan train rides are:
- Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad
- Tahquamenon Falls Wilderness Excursion
- Steam Railroading Institute
- Coopersville and Marne Railway