Top 5 Fall Road Trips in Michigan

The U.P., Michigan's northernmost region, is a rugged landscape of forests, rivers, and lakes. Its dramatic beauty is especially striking in the fall when the leaves of its many trees burst into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Along the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, visitors can witness breathtaking vistas of fall foliage framed against the backdrop of the Great Lakes. The towering cliffs and pristine beaches of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offer stunning opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and simply taking in the scenery. Another highlight of the U.P. is Tahquamenon Falls State Park, home to the mighty Tahquamenon Falls. The Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, is a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. The Lower Falls, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, offers a more peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll.

A picturesque peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan, is a popular destination for visitors seeking a charming and relaxing getaway. Its quaint towns, such as Leland, Northport, and Suttons Bay, offer a delightful blend of history, art, and local culture. In addition to its charming towns, the Leelanau Peninsula is renowned for its wineries, producing high-quality wines from grapes grown in the region's unique microclimate. Wine enthusiasts can take scenic wine tours, visiting vineyards and tasting rooms to sample the local flavors. Beyond its towns and wineries, the Leelanau Peninsula boasts stunning beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The M-22 highway, which winds along the peninsula's western coast, offers breathtaking vistas of fall foliage, sandy shores, and crystal-clear waters.

The Great Lakes Bay Region, centered around Bay City, Michigan, offers a diverse landscape encompassing urban and rural elements. Visitors can explore the charming downtown areas of Bay City, Saginaw, and Midland, which feature historic buildings, museums, and vibrant cultural scenes. For those seeking a more natural experience, the region offers numerous parks, forests, and trails where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of fall foliage. The Saginaw Valley Rail Trail, a 111-mile paved trail, is a popular destination for biking, hiking, and rollerblading. The trail winds through scenic landscapes, offering stunning views of fall colors and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Located southwest of Ann Arbor, Michigan, the Irish Hills offers a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and charming villages. The region's name is a nod to its Irish heritage, which is reflected in its communities' architecture and cultural traditions. Visitors to the Irish Hills can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The Waterloo-Pinckney State Trail, a 22-mile paved trail, is a popular destination for cyclists seeking a scenic ride through the fall foliage. The trail winds through picturesque forests and meadows and along the shores of Waterloo Lake, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

The Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP) of Michigan is renowned for its remote beauty and abundant wildlife. Its vast forests, pristine lakes, and rugged coastline offer a true wilderness experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Hiawatha National Forest covers a significant portion of the EUP and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest offers a network of hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense forests to tranquil lakeshores. Visitors can encounter various wildlife, including deer, black bears, loons, and bald eagles, as they explore the forest's scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives through the Hiawatha National Forest. In addition to hiking, the Tahquamenon Falls Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of fall foliage, waterfalls, and the Tahquamenon River. The Whitefish Point Light Station, located on the shores of Lake Superior, is another popular destination for scenic drives and wildlife viewing.

Whether you're seeking the rugged beauty of the Upper Peninsula, the charming towns of the Leelanau Peninsula, the urban-rural blend of the Great Lakes Bay Region, the scenic landscapes of the Irish Hills, or the wilderness of the Eastern Upper Peninsula, Michigan offers a variety of fall road trips to suit every taste. Before you embark on your fall adventure, be sure to stop by any of our Dick Scott Auto Group dealerships and have our experts assess your vehicle's condition. We can help ensure that your car is in top shape for a safe and enjoyable road trip. You can schedule your service appointment online by using the form below. Our experienced technicians will inspect your vehicle and address any issues before you hit the road.