Mackinac Island to Bay City Road Trip Guide

Few road trips in Michigan begin with a mandatory ferry ride, but the journey from Mackinac Island to Bay City is no ordinary drive. Because Mackinac Island itself bans motorized vehicles, you'll first board a ferry from Mackinaw City (Shepler's or Star Line) to the island, explore its historic streets by foot or bicycle, then return to the mainland to begin the roughly 180-mile southward trek on I-75 and US-23. The route traces the western shore of Lake Huron, passing through the sunrise side of the Lower Peninsula.

Historically, this corridor once carried travelers on the Michigan Central Railroad and later along the old US-23, which was designated as one of the first national auto trails. Today, the drive is a quiet counterpoint to Michigan's busier highway systems, with long stretches of two-lane road that meander past lighthouses, maritime museums, and tiny resort towns. Here's how to make the most of it.

Essential logistics for this trip: The total driving distance from Mackinaw City (the ferry port) to Bay City is approximately 160 miles (257 km) via I-75 and US-23, taking about 3 hours without stops. However, factoring in the ferry crossing (20-30 minutes each way plus waiting time) and exploring Mackinac Island itself, you should budget at least half a day for the island and another 4-6 hours for the drive. Below is a quick reference table for this route.

This route is a study in contrasts: from the limestone bluffs of Mackinac Island, carved by ancient glaciers, to the flat, sandy shores of Saginaw Bay near Bay City. Much of US-23 between Cheboygan and Alpena hugs the Lake Huron coastline, offering frequent shoreline pull-offs. The Huron National Forest spreads across the interior, a mix of hardwood and pine that bursts into flame colors in autumn. Keep an eye out for the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse (near Harrisville) and the Ocqueoc Falls, Michigan's largest waterfall by volume, both accessible via short side trips.

Local commerce along this corridor is steeped in maritime heritage. In Rogers City, the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail offers insights into schooners and shipping. Alpena boasts the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a protected underwater preserve with shipwreck sites. Tawas City and East Tawas are prime for antiques shopping and local artisan goods. For a deeper dive into discovering hidden detours, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

• Cheboygan: Visit the Cheboygan County Historical Museum, housed in a former opera house.
• Alpena: Explore the NOAA Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center (free admission) with a full-sized replica of a schooner.
• Tawas City: Hike the Tawas Point State Park trails and climb the lighthouse for bay views.

This drive is unique because you begin with a ferry journey. To reach Mackinac Island, you'll park your car in Mackinaw City (ample paid lots exist near the ferry docks) and board a Shepler's or Star Line ferry. The crossing takes about 16-25 minutes one way. Once on the island, you'll find no cars—only bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and your own two feet. Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the island before returning to retrieve your vehicle.

From Mackinaw City, head south on I-75 for just a few miles before taking exit 313 onto US-23 southbound toward Cheboygan. US-23 will be your primary route for the next 150 miles, following the Lake Huron shoreline. The road is mostly two lanes with occasional passing zones; speed limits vary from 55 mph in rural areas to 35 mph in towns. Expect heavy traffic only during midsummer weekends near popular destinations like Alpena and Tawas City.

• Ferry Details: Shepler's and Star Line offer round-trip tickets (~$40/adult). Check schedules; ferries run frequently from May to October, less in winter.
• Parking in Mackinaw City: Several lots near the docks charge $15-25 per day. Some hotels in Mackinaw City offer free parking for guests.
• Road Conditions: US-23 is well-maintained but can be narrow in sections. Watch for deer, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Fuel Stops: Gas stations are plentiful in towns like Cheboygan, Rogers City, Alpena, and Tawas City. Between these, stretches of 30-40 miles have no services.
• Best Time to Go: Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

US-23 is generally a safe road, but its two-lane nature requires attention. Roughly half the route lacks a median barrier, and headlight glare at night can be an issue. Watch for bicyclists, especially near the shoreline. In winter, snow and ice are common; the Michigan DOT maintains the road well, but delays are possible. The worst hazards are deer crossings—there are wildlife warning signs in many sections, particularly between Rogers City and Alpena.

For families, the route offers several kid-friendly stops. Mackinac Island itself delights children with its horse-drawn carriage rides and fudge shops. The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena has interactive exhibits about shipwrecks. At the Bay City State Recreation Area, families can swim, bike, or visit the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center. Pet owners will find that many state parks and beaches allow dogs on leashes; Mackinac Island does not allow outside pets (service animals excepted), but your pet can stay in your car in Mackinaw City or use a kennel service.

Fatigue management is key on a 160-mile route that is mostly straight and scenic but can become monotonous. Plan to stop every 90-120 minutes. Rest areas are located near Cheboygan (just south of the Mackinac Bridge), in Alpena (Presque Isle), and near Tawas City. Coffee shops and diners are abundant in town centers. If you need to stretch, pull over at a beach access—many are posted with blue roadside signs. Remember to share the road with slower farm vehicles and trucks making deliveries to small-town markets.

• Recommended rest stops: Ocqueoc Falls Overlook (mile marker 300), Alpena Rest Area (I-75/US-23), and Tawas Point State Park.
• Culinary highlights: Try a pasty (Cornish pastry) at the Pasty Oven in Cheboygan, whitefish at Harborside Restaurant in Rogers City, and a fresh apple cider donut at the Apple Shed in Tawas City.
• UNESCO proximity: While no UNESCO sites lie exactly on route, the nearby Mackinac Island is part of the Mackinac State Historic Parks, a candidate site.