The State of Michigan is filled with beautiful drives and trails. It’s hard to imagine that all of them are just part of the state we live in. Some parts of Michigan are so stunning, that it’s hard to believe. One of the places I’ve spent most of my time is gorgeous no matter what time of year.
I often take myself up to Northwest Michigan, around Traverse City, when I need to get away from it all. When I have a chance, I’ll pull over and take in the beautiful countryside or lakefront. Some of these stops are so beautiful, it feels like they were pulled straight out of a Paul Cezanne painting.
A drive up the Old Mission Peninsula will make you feel like you’re in the center of it all. There are few places I can think of that not only show off beautiful fall colors but also crystal clear water.
Nestled between the two arms of the Grand Traverse Bay, this area is not only known for its stunning scenery but also numerous wineries and charming accomodations.
On your way up the Mission Point Peninsula, you’ll eventually run into the lighthouse. The greatest part about his drive is that you can take one road the entire length of the peninsula.
This is a great destination for families that want to explore Michigan’s nautical past. It also comes with one of the most stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay.
This is a place for early risers and night owls. Sunsets on Lake Michigan are as breathtaking as anywhere along the Pacific Coast.
Photographers will flock from miles away to get a glimpse of the sun going down. Due to the lack of any major cities, you’ll also experience one of the clearest night skies with stars in full view. True story, my wife and I once freaked out while lying on a dock looking at the stars because we swore we saw aliens. Turns out, it was just Starlink satellites cruising by in orbit. That’s almost just as cool.
One of the features that is impossible to miss is the water, and I’m not just talking about Lake Michigan. There are several inland lakes that would have Claude Monet drooling at the mouth.
These peaceful ponds are found on the many trails that carve through the Leelanau Peninsula along M-22 northwest of Traverse City.
While the peak season up here is certainly summertime, the colder months provide stunning scenery as well. With far fewer tourists than in the warmer part of the year, the only sound you’ll hear is that of falling snow.
While you might feel like you’re in a whole different world during the winter, that’s just another reason why this part of Michigan is so picturesque. It’s constantly changing.
Fishtown in Leeland is one of the most timeless locations on the Leelanau Peninsula. Whether you’re picking up a legendary sandwich from The Village Cheese Shanty or grabbing some smoked fish from Carlson’s Fish Market, you’ll always have a great view of the water while you eat.
My wife and I like to order our food before heading out to some of the dining tables at the Leeland Yacht Club for some uninhibited views of Lake Michigan.
There are several places along Michigan’s coastline to take in the shores of Lake Michigan, but the area around Traverse City arguably has the most.
You can take several different trails high up on the bluffs or dig your toes into the sand while you walk the beach. Maybe you’ll be inspired to break out the palette and easel yourself.
If you’ve ever wanted to fully immerse yourself in beautiful landscape painting, you might want to consider a trip up to Traverse City. Some of the natural wonders here are only imaginable in the mind of a world-renowned artist, but you can see how real the beauty is for yourself in person.
Northwest Michigan can be magical all year round. I suggest staying several days to truly experience all the area has to offer. As I said before, there are several charming accommodations in the area that make for a perfect home base for all your nature activities.
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