As fall settles over Northwest Michigan, the region transforms into a stunning canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the vibrant fall colors in this beautiful part of the state. From scenic drives to serene hikes, Northwest Michigan offers countless spots where you can soak in the breathtaking autumn scenery. Grab your camera, take in the crisp air, and discover the best places to see fall colors in Northwest Michigan, perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure with your family.
Cadillac Fall Color Route (Cadillac, Wexford County)
Cadillac’s 18-mile route along Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac takes you into the heart of the greater Cadillac area. The 11-mile drive around Lake Mitchell allows you to view color through the east end of the Manistee National Forest, as well as panoramic colors across the lake.
Charlevoix (Charlevoix County)
Fisherman's Island State Park is a picturesque stop to see fall foliage along Lake Michigan. Take a walk along the shoreline to search for Petoskey stones, and visit downtown Charlevoix to explore its unique shops and restaurants.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Empire, Leelanau County)
Experience stunning fall colors from the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear, offering panoramic views of the vibrant autumn landscape.
M-22 Scenic Highway (Leelanau County)
Drive along the iconic M-22 highway, where you’ll find breathtaking fall foliage views stretching along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Tunnel of Trees (M-119) (Harbor Springs, Emmet County)
The Tunnel of Trees is a must-see in autumn, with a canopy of brilliant colors arching over this scenic drive.
Jordan River Valley (East Jordan, Charlevoix County)
Hike through the Jordan River Valley for an immersive experience in a kaleidoscope of fall foliage along the river.
Leelanau State Park (Northport, Leelanau County)
Visit Leelanau State Park to see vibrant fall colors contrasting against the blue waters of Lake Michigan.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive (Empire, Leelanau County)
Enjoy a leisurely drive through Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, offering spectacular autumn views and overlooks.
Old Mission Peninsula (Traverse City, Grand Traverse County)
Discover the beauty of fall on Old Mission Peninsula, with vibrant trees lining the roads and scenic winery views.
Arcadia Overlook (Arcadia, Manistee County)
Also known as Inspiration Point, Arcadia Overlook provides breathtaking views of fall colors against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.
Petoskey State Park (Petoskey, Emmet County)
Petoskey State Park offers beautiful fall colors along the dunes and forested areas, with stunning views of Little Traverse Bay.
Boardman River Valley (Traverse City, Grand Traverse County)
Paddle or hike through the Boardman River Valley, surrounded by brilliant fall foliage and serene river views.
Orchard Beach State Park (Manistee, Manistee County)
Orchard Beach State Park offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding fall foliage from its elevated location.
Charlevoix Waterfront (Charlevoix, Charlevoix County)
Stroll along the Charlevoix Waterfront to enjoy the vibrant fall colors reflecting off the water.
Grass River Natural Area (Bellaire, Antrim County)
Hike through Grass River Natural Area, where boardwalks take you through wetlands surrounded by brilliant fall colors.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail (Glen Arbor, Leelanau County)
Bike or hike along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail for a close-up view of the stunning fall colors that blanket the area.
Interlochen State Park (Interlochen, Grand Traverse County)
Explore the wooded trails of Interlochen State Park, where fall colors create a picturesque setting around Green Lake.
Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls, Charlevoix County)
Take a scenic chairlift ride at Boyne Mountain Resort and visit SkyBridge Michigan to see sweeping views of fall foliage from above.
Pyramid Point (Maple City, Leelanau County)
Hike to Pyramid Point for panoramic views of fall colors and Lake Michigan from this high vantage point.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve (Harbor Springs, Emmet County)
Explore the trails at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve, where fall colors beautifully contrast with views of Lake Michigan.
Green Point Dunes (Frankfort, Benzie County)
Hike through Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve for breathtaking fall foliage views along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Rogers Family Homestead Preserve (Suttons Bay, Leelanau County)
Explore the Rogers Family Homestead Preserve, where fall colors add vibrancy to this scenic Leelanau County preserve.
Traverse City State Park (Traverse City, Grand Traverse County)
Enjoy fall colors along the wooded trails of Traverse City State Park, just a short drive from downtown.
Other Ways to Enjoy Fall Colors
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