The three color tours shown on this page are representative of the many fall color tour opportunities you will find in northeast Michigan. While space does not allow us to show you all the possibilities, it will give you a strong feeling for the type of spectacular fall color you will see as you journey through state and national forests. Enjoy scenic vistas of Lake Huron and countless bays, and experience the beauty that only Mother Nature can provide.
Many of the region’s chambers of commerce and convention and visitors bureaus have additional maps and suggestions that should prove beneficial as you explore the beauty of northeast Michigan.
Alpena - Gaylord - Mio |
||
|---|---|---|
 |
Length: |
Approximately 200 miles |
Best Enjoyed: |
Late September to Mid-October |
|
Highlights: |
Thunder Bay, Island Park & Wildflower Sanctuary, Manning Hill Overlook, Pigeon River Country State Forest (elk viewing), Otsego Lake State Park, Hartwick Pines State Park, farm markets, cider mills. |
|
Rogers City - Cheboygan - Indian River |
||
 |
Length: |
Approximately 200 miles |
Best Enjoyed: |
Late September to Mid-October |
|
Highlights: |
Lake Huron shoreline, scenic turnouts along US-23, Historic Mill Creek State Park, Cheboygan State Park, P.H. Hoeft State Park, Forty-Mile Point Lighthouse, Thompson's Harbor State Park, Besser Natural Area, Old & New Presque Isle Lighthouses, Ocqueoc Falls, Aloha State Park, Burt Lake State Park. |
|
Oscoda - West Branch - Tawas City |
||
 |
Length: |
Approximately 190 miles |
Best Enjoyed: |
Late September to Mid-October |
|
Highlights: |
Lake Huron shoreline, River Road National Forest Scenic Byway and Largo Springs (eagle nesting area), Rifle River State Park, Tawas Point State Park, Tawas Point Lighthouse, Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Refuge, farm markets. |
|
We have provided you here with an “idea” as to the best time to view fall colors and when to expect peak colors. As fall approaches we will have current color conditions and best times to see the colors.
The colors will hit their peaks at different times during the season due to such factors as their nearness to Lake Huron, the type of weather (heavy winds, rain, dry conditions, etc.) and the occurrence of a killing frost. Plan your trip early enough in the season to insure that you have hotel rooms in or near the communities you plan to visit. You may also like to plan a hike in the woods, a wagon ride on an elk viewing excursion, a visit to a pumpkin farm or a number of other activities available throughout the region.
Many communities are home to cider mills and pumpkin farms that can provide an exciting afternoon for children of all ages. As you plan your fall color tour, be sure to include a visit to our Web site at www.misunriseside.com for more information and a look at current color conditions.
One of the keys to enjoying the fall color season is to allow plenty of time to take in all there is along your route. For instance, a trip along the River Road Scenic Byway can include a ride on the AuSable River Queen, a paddle wheel boat that takes you down the AuSable River to enjoy not only the fall colors, but provides an opportunity to spot wildlife along the banks of the river or stop at the Lumberman’s Monument Visitors Center or hike down the more than 200 steps to Iargo Springs located along the byway.
The driving tours are just the beginning for a great adventure. Fall is a great time to visit northeast Michigan. Often the weather is pleasant, the scenery spectacular and, in many cases, the crowds from the summer season have come and gone. Take time to enjoy nature and the fall color season on Michigan’s Sunrise Side.