Mackinac Island is home to some of the world’s most incredible sights and some of its most interesting history. Iconic landmarks such as the ancient Arch Rock and 19th-century Fort Holmes make for great sight-seeing. Did you know they also can be part of a great workout?
You can take in the beauty of Mackinac Island at your leisure, but you don’t have to do it at a leisurely pace if you want a more high-octane experience!
With comfortable temperatures even in the peak of summer, Mackinac Island is the ideal vacation spot for getting some exercise in between fudge sampling and al fresco dining.
As you plan your vacation activities, try to fit in some of these fitness challenges during your stay:
Running or Biking the Iron Belle Trail on Mackinac Island
The road that circles the outer rim of Mackinac Island, M-185, is the only state highway in the country that’s car-free. It’s also part of the Iron Belle Trail that runs from the western tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula all the way to Belle Isle in Detroit.
Because there are no cars, M-185 is a popular bicycle and running route for Mackinac Island visitors. It passes by landmarks including Arch Rock, British Landing, Devil’s Kitchen and more as it hugs the beautiful Great Lakes coastline the entire way. M-185 also features the Mackinac Island’s Native American Cultural Trail, which includes six stops showcasing information about the history and influence of Native Americans in the Great Lakes region.
Here’s your fitness challenge: Rent a bike on Mackinac Island (or bring your own bike on the ferry ride from the mainland) and enjoy the relatively flat, 8.2-mile ride along M-185. Or go for a run all the way around the island.
- What to expect on the 8.2-mile trek around Mackinac Island
- Running around Lakeshore Drive/M-185 on Mackinac Island
Walking the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail
Weaving along the Arch Rock Bicycle Trail is the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail. As you make your way toward one of Mackinac Island’s most popular destinations, the iconic Arch Rock, you’ll pass seven turnouts with plantings and interpretive signs along with benches where you can sit and enjoy being surrounded by natural beauty.
Here’s your fitness challenge: Walk the Botanical Trail. It’s a great, low-impact way to get some exercise and learn about the unique fauna and flora on Mackinac Island.
- Plants to look for along the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail
- Wildflowers to find in Mackinac Island State Park
Hiking Up Hills on Mackinac Island
Fort Mackinac strikes an imposing presence high on the bluffs of Mackinac Island. Did you know there’s also another historic fort on Mackinac Island? Fort Holmes was built on the island’s highest point and it’s quite a heart-pumping hike to get there!
Here’s your fitness challenge: Make your way up to Fort Holmes while visiting landmarks including Arch Rock, Sugar Loaf and the centuries-old Mackinac Island cemeteries along the way. Use one of these Mackinac Island maps to find your way.
Playing Family Games on Mackinac Island
Believe it or not, exercise on Mackinac Island can be fun and educational – and something the whole family can do together.
Here’s your fitness challenge: Visit Mackinac Island’s Marquette Park and have fun on the playground there, then head to Great Turtle Park to kick a soccer ball around, shoot hoops, play disc golf and more.
