Michigan Road Trips That Showcase Summer Scenery

There's something wonderful about packing up your cars and truck, rolling down the windows, and striking the open roadway as summertime sets in. Michigan, with its sprawling coastlines, thick woodlands, and lovely small towns, offers some of the most breathtaking drives in the Midwest. Whether you're a longtime local or planning your initial tour via the state, there's no scarcity of scenic routes to make this period memorable.
Discover the Beauty of the Upper Peninsula
When the majority of people consider Michigan, they picture the lower half of the state. But the Upper Peninsula is an untapped treasure for roadway trippers wanting to experience something raw and wild. Start your journey by going across the iconic bridge into the U.P., where woodlands extend endlessly and lakes shimmer under gold sunlight.
Take your time winding through M-28, a highway that hugs the southern edge of Lake Superior. The path takes you with picturesque communities like Munising, home to several of one of the most sensational waterfalls in the state. Make a rest stop to explore the coastline or venture out on a short hike-- you'll discover that nature is constantly within arm's reach below. The roads are quiet, the sights are serene, and the sense of retreat is real.
Cruise Ship the Lake Michigan Shoreline
For a softer, extra seaside feel, think about heading west toward Lake Michigan Begin in the southwestern corner near St. Joseph and follow heaven Star Highway north. This stretch of roadway uses sweeping lake sights, rolling dunes, and comfy lakeside communities that feel like they've been iced up in time.
Driving with areas like South Haven and Saugatuck, you'll observe how the energy shifts with the landscape. Some towns buzz with art galleries and ice cream stands, while others invite you to decrease and delight in a silent beach at sundown. You'll likely capture glimpses of sailboats distant and the fragrance of freshwater wandering via the air-- reminders that this isn't just a drive; it's a full-on summertime experience.
Experience the Rustic Charm of Northern Michigan.
North Michigan provides a mix of harmony and journey that really feels tailor-made for trip. Beginning your journey in Traverse City, a bustling lakeside town surrounded by cherry orchards and wineries. From there, guide toward M-22, a winding course that follows the contours of the Leelanau Peninsula.
M-22 is renowned for a reason. It supplies postcard-perfect scenes at almost every turn-- vine-covered hillsides, turquoise bays, and winding forest roads that instantly open up to breathtaking sights. Drop in towns like Glen Arbor or Leland, where time reduces and every edge has a tale. It's the sort of path where you could not have a set plan, which's precisely the point.
The Thumb: Michigan's Underrated Treasure
If you're yearning something off the beaten path, head east towards Michigan's Thumb region. This location typically gets forgotten but awards travelers with peaceful countryside roadways and lovely harbor towns along Lake Huron.
Adhere to M-25 as it wraps around the pointer of the Thumb. The drive between Bay City and Port Huron is populated with unexpected finds: lighthouses, roadside farm stands, and peaceful beaches where the water glows in the late afternoon sun. There's a sense of nostalgia right here that's difficult to find elsewhere, and the slow speed makes it easy to enjoy every moment.
Gear Up for the Journey
Naturally, no trip is complete without a reliable ride to get you there and back. If you're thinking of updating your vehicle before hitting the road, now is a fun time to check out a Chevrolet Blazer for sale. Recognized for its smooth drive and roomy inside, it's optimal for lengthy hours on the road and spontaneous detours down breathtaking byways.
Before you head out, it's also worth getting in touch with a Detroit Chevy dealer to make certain your car is ready for journey. A quick check-in can provide look at this website you assurance and perhaps even spark some new ideas for where to go next. If you're currently in the location, a trusted Chevy dealer in Detroit can help with everything from a regular tune-up to locating the excellent summer-ready SUV.
Make This Summer Count
There's something undeniably releasing regarding discovering brand-new roads and taking another look at familiar ones with fresh eyes. Whether you're chasing after waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, capturing a lake breeze along the west coastline, or uncovering covert treasures in the Thumb, Michigan provides a wide-open play ground for summertime exploration.
Wherever your course leads, do not rush. Turn up your preferred playlist, take the scenic course, and allow the road guide you. And for even more neighborhood travel ideas and trip inspiration, be sure to check back regularly-- we're always updating with new paths and destinations that make summertime seem like an open invitation.