Michigan road trip: Holland to Tahquamenon Falls, 20 stops

Explore Michigan's 3,193 km route connecting iconic Great Lakes landmarks, from the crystal-clear waters of Kitch-iti-kipi and Tahquamenon Falls to historic lighthouses at Holland Harbor and Round Island Light. The journey spans both peninsulas via the Mackinac Bridge, featuring natural wonders like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and charming coastal towns including Traverse City and Holland.

Distance
3193.6 km
Mode
route
Start
Welcome to Michigan
End
Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse
Stops
20
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Welcome to Michigan — The Great Lakes State straddles two peninsulas surrounded by four of North America's five largest freshwater lakes, shaping its unique geography and culture.
  2. Kitch-iti-kipi — Natural mineral spring attraction in Michigan's Upper Peninsula
  3. Round Island Light — Historic lighthouse on Round Island in the Straits of Mackinac
  4. Mackinac Bridge — Engineering marvel spanning 5 miles across the Straits of Mackinac, connecting Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas
  5. Tahquamenon Falls — One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River located in a state park near Paradise
  6. Holland — Coastal community in western Michigan
  7. Holland Harbor Light — Historic lighthouse marking the harbor entrance
  8. Lake Huron
  9. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — National lakeshore on Lake Superior featuring the Miners Castle Formation
  10. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — Sand dunes landmark in Northern Michigan with hiking trails and the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
  11. Grand Traverse Bay — Water body in Northern Michigan
  12. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse — Historic lighthouse at the Straits of Mackinac
  13. Lake Michigan
  14. Point Betsie Lighthouse — Historic lighthouse on Lake Michigan
  15. Muskegon Lake — A scenic freshwater harbor along Michigan's western coast, historically significant for timber and shipping industries, now a recreational destination for boating and water sports.
  16. Michigan State Capitol
  17. Leelanau Peninsula — Wine country region with vineyards and agricultural heritage communities including Cedar and Maple City
  18. Traverse City — Regional hub near Leelanau Peninsula
  19. South Haven South Pierhead Light — Historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Black River on Lake Michigan
  20. Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse — Historic lighthouse built in 1903 at the end of the South Pier; currently requires preservation

Useful for your trip

Tip
Kitch-iti-kipi spring measures 200 ft across with a constant 45° water temperature year-round. Explore via self-operated wooden raft with observation hole to see 10,000 gallons of water per minute through limestone fissures. Swimming is strictly prohibited.
Transport
Mackinac Bridge is a toll bridge spanning nearly 5 miles. Over 4 million vehicles cross annually; traffic peaks during summer months. Bridge Authority offers driver assistance for those with anxiety about high spans.
Timing
Tahquamenon Falls features upper falls at 50 ft high during spring runoff when over 50,000 gallons per second flow over the brink. Best viewing during spring when water volume is highest.
Tip
Visit Tahquamenon Falls lower cascades by hiking a four-mile river trail or renting a rowboat from the park's concession.
Timing
Holland's annual Tulip Time Festival occurs each May with millions of vibrant blooms transforming city streets. The city hosts a dozen diverse festivals throughout the year.
Tip
Tour Dezwan, the only authentic working Dutch windmill in the United States, transported from the Netherlands in the 1960s. Located on Windmill Island Gardens with 36 acres of flower beds, Dutch street organ, and carousel.
Timing
Kitch-iti-kipi spring rarely freezes over due to its steady 45° temperature, allowing it to remain open for visitors throughout winter months.
Tip
Lake Huron's north shore features rustic fishing villages and quiet ports. Approximately 68% of surrounding land is forested with rare Carolinian broadleaf deciduous trees offering spectacular autumn foliage in red and yellow.
Tip
Leelanau Peninsula features many vineyards producing some of the nation's finest wines. Small towns like Cedar, Lake Leela, and Maple City have independent markets for local shopping.
Tip
Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk draws thousands of participants every Labor Day since 1958, offering a unique community tradition.

Video on this route

Wonders of Michigan | Life on America's Northern Edge | Travel Video 4K

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