CindyA

Driving from Bay City to Mackinac City (or St. Ignace) next month. Which route is the most scenic – US 23 all the way around the east, or cut over to Gaylord on M 32 and north on I-75?
Any recommended stops or restaurants along the way?
Any preference/difference in taking the ferry to Mackinac Island from MC or SI?

Keith

US 23 all the way. I like to visit some of the lighthouses. Ocqueoc Falls is a great stop.

I would still make a drive over the Mackinac Bridge at some point in the trip for the experience, but the ferry ride is more scenic from the south (Mackinaw City) side. The price and time is about the same for both ferry comanies, but Shepler's provides much better customer service.

Some departures (marked on the schedule) take an extra 6-7 minutes and include a pass under the Bridge, which is a great photo op.

CindyA

Thanks, Keith. I was leaning toward taking US 23, and we plan to drive over the bridge after our stay on Mackinac Island. I've already made note of some of your MI advice on other threads. Good to hear from a fellow Kansan.��

Keith

Always a pleasure.

This hobby page of mine has a lot of info about the Island and the area: http://www.mightymac.org/island.htm

CindyA

Wonderful photos, Keith! Can't wait to see it in person.