Dukey1

I am considering taking Rte 2 across northern Michigan and Wisconsin from St. Ignace to Duluth, Mn.

On my maps many sections are marked as a scenic route.

I have no idea what kind of condition the roadway is in or if there will be many traffic-related slowdowns in small towns, etc. The traffic is worth putting up with IMO if the scenery ends up being memorable.

I would appreciate comments, both positive and negative from anyone familiar with this highway.

My alternative would be to take the fast ferry from Muskegon over to Milwaukee and travel northwestward from there.

Thanks very much.

Dukey1

TTT

annettafly

Of course we Michiganders think Rte 2 is a beautiful drive. You've seen on the map that you'll pass thru several national forests, see great views of Lake MI, wildlife, waterfalls, etc. But since I don't know where else your roadtrip takes you, I cannot say how it will compare on the "memorable" scale to whatever else is along your route. Just a side-note so you won't tell the locals that you're enjoying "northern Michigan". You'll be enjoying "the U.P.". Northern Michigan is the top half (some would say top third) of the lower peninsula---it ends when you get up to Mackinac City/Mackinac Bridge. Once you cross the bridge over to St. Ignace you're in the Upper Peninsula.
Sorry to tell you that Michigan roads are famously bad. I depend on AAA of Michigan for updates on roadwork/detours, etc. I've driven into the far northwest of the U.P. and loved every mile of it. Hope you enjoy.

Dukey1

Thank you for your helpful comments and correction.

jubilada

I haven't been for many years so no info about roads but the UP is a wonderful place, scenic and interesting.

Keith

US 2 has beautiful views of Lake Michigan and some interesting stops. It is two lane, but there are many stretches with additional passing lanes.

You don't say when you will be driving. For example, if it is in the next few weeks, traffic is not a factor at all.

The Upper Peninsula (UP) is also northern Michigan. No need to apologize.

annettafly

Of course you're correct, Keith---geographically speaking. I was only refering to local parlance. Right again, Keith---Nobody needs to apologize.

ronko

Their are some beautiful Wisconsin State Parks off Highway 2 --- Copper Falls is my favorite - Amicron Park -- but if you are going on Highway 2 -- Ashland - and I encourage you to stop in Downtown Ashland and view all the murals -- they are quite impressive -- and if you decide you could go up to Bayfield, which is very unique -- and maybe even visit Madeline Island, via the ferry -- and the Apostle Islands - It is a beautiful area to drive through.

Dukey1

Thank you very much for the additional very helpful comments. To answer the "when" question: very late July so I would be expecting to see other visitors and assume the weather (other than possible rain, etc.) would be decent, i.e., not terribly cold.

grace44

Once you travel over the Mackinac Bridge you are in the Upper Peninsula, or UP. If you just say Northern Michigan, people who actually live in Michigan think you mean places like Traverse City, Mackinac city, Alpena. Once over the bridge US 2 is a two lane road as stated, but it is a good road. Many big logging trucks use it, but it is easy to pass them. Passing lanes are frequent, but also there is never enough traffic to keep you from passing easily. Just one note of caution, there is always traffic cops out and giving tickets. I always keep to the speed limit. I also notice most of the locals do too. The trip between St. Ignace and Duluth is about an eight hour drive, pretty much a full day. I think the prettiest part is just outside of St. Ignace where you can still see Lake Michigan; the rest is forest, but very pretty. I don't think any of it is old growth forest though. Seney National Wildlife Refuge would be a really nice side trip. I have never taken the boat so I don't know how easy that would be, but if it cuts time and you don't want to spend your vacation driving, that seems like it would be a good option.

WhereAreWe

If you stick to Rte 2 you would miss Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Really depends on how much time you've allotted for the drive, you could definitely spend a couple days getting to Duluth.

Keith

In late July you will be at the busiest time of the year. Allow extra time driving on any of Michigan's 2 lane highways. When a couple of vehicles pulling trailers end up front to back, I call it a Double Parcheesi, because you are effectively blocked from passing.

Dukey1

Again, I appreciate all the additional info. Thank you very much for your help.

fmoorhe

We are also thinking of taking Rte. 2 in July. We have a 35' motorhome. Will it be a problem?

Keith

As long as you are willing to drive the speed limit (55mph) or few miles slower, it should not be. It will be difficult passing with that large vehicle, because it seems like the slower vehicles all speed up when they get to the passing lanes and people try to go around them.

There are any number of neat places to stop along that route, such as the Cut River Bridge, Kitch-iti-kipi Springs, Fayette, or Seul Choix Point Lighthouse. Take your time and have fun!

Dukey1

I wondered why someone had revived my two-year old thread! Actually I cannot believe it has even BEEN two years since I went to Duluth!!!!