Scenic drives Up North featuring beautiful fall foliage, winding forest road, northern Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, best autumn road trip routes

Scenic Drives Up North: The Most Beautiful Routes

When it comes to unforgettable travel experiences, few things rival the serenity and beauty of a scenic drive through the northern United States. The combination of pristine forests, shimmering lakes, rugged coastlines, and charming small towns makes “Up North” a destination in itself. Whether you’re visiting Northern Michigan, the Upper Peninsula, Wisconsin, Minnesota, or beyond, these breathtaking routes will leave you with memories as vibrant as the landscapes themselves. As a guest of The Inn at Stonecliffe, you’re perfectly situated to explore some of the most iconic — and some of the most hidden — routes the north has to offer.

Why Scenic Drives Up North Captivate Travelers

The term "Up North" evokes tranquility, adventure, and a step away from the everyday. These routes offer not just beauty, but also:

  • Access to natural wonders and wildlife

  • Picturesque seasonal changes — from autumn’s fiery foliage to spring wildflowers

  • Opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and photography

  • A sense of peace, far removed from urban hustle

Travelers come seeking not just the destination but the journey itself. Here are the most beautiful scenic drives Up North, organized by region and intent.

Northern Michigan: Lakes, Forests, and Foliage

Few places embody "Up North" quite like Michigan. From the Mackinac Bridge to hidden byways, the area surrounding The Inn at Stonecliffe offers unmatched beauty.

1. M-119 — Tunnel of Trees

Length: ~20 miles | Route: Harbor Springs to Cross Village

This narrow, winding road is one of the most iconic drives in the Midwest. Canopying hardwoods create a natural tunnel of green in summer and brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges in the fall. Along the way, stop at Pond Hill Farm for cider and enjoy the view from Legs Inn in Cross Village.

2. US-2 Along Lake Michigan’s Northern Shore

Length: ~150 miles | Route: St. Ignace to Manistique

Just beyond the Mackinac Bridge, US-2 hugs the shoreline of Lake Michigan, offering expansive views of dunes, beaches, and blue water. Watch for roadside stops like the Cut River Bridge and sandy swimming beaches perfect for a summer picnic.

3. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Length: ~7 miles | Route: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Located a bit farther west, this loop takes you through dense forest, past massive dunes, and ends at an overlook with spectacular views of Lake Michigan. In autumn, the route is ablaze with color.

4. Brockway Mountain Drive

Length: ~9 miles | Route: Copper Harbor, Upper Peninsula

High above Lake Superior, Brockway Mountain Drive is renowned for its sweeping vistas of forest, water, and sky. Sunrise and sunset here are particularly breathtaking.

Wisconsin: Rolling Hills and Rustic Charm

Wisconsin offers a quieter kind of beauty, with pastoral scenes, river bluffs, and cozy villages.

5. Great River Road

Length: ~250 miles (WI section) | Route: Prescott to Potosi

Following the Mississippi River, the Wisconsin section of the Great River Road meanders through charming river towns and scenic overlooks. Don’t miss Alma’s Buena Vista Park and Pikes Peak State Park just across the river in Iowa.

6. Door County Coastal Byway

Length: ~66 miles | Route: Sturgeon Bay to Northport & back

This peninsula is beloved for its waterfront views of Lake Michigan and Green Bay, cherry orchards, lighthouses, and beaches. Best visited in late spring when the blossoms are out or fall when the colors are at their peak.

Minnesota: Lakes, Pines, and the North Shore

Minnesota’s natural beauty is dramatic, especially along Lake Superior.

7. North Shore Scenic Drive (Highway 61)

Length: ~150 miles | Route: Duluth to Grand Portage

This route hugs the Lake Superior shore, passing waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and quaint towns like Grand Marais. Highlights include Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and the rugged Sawtooth Mountains.

8. Gunflint Trail

Length: ~57 miles | Route: Grand Marais to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

A wilder, less-traveled path that cuts deep into Minnesota’s boreal forest, offering a chance to see moose, loons, and endless wilderness.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Routes

While the routes above are justly famous, “Up North” is also home to lesser-known roads worth exploring.

9. Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway (Michigan)

Length: ~40 miles | Route: Bay Mills to Point Iroquois Lighthouse

A serene stretch of road with few crowds, passing through forests and along the Lake Superior shoreline. Visit the lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic views.

10. Wisconsin’s Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive

Length: ~115 miles | Route: Whitewater to Elkhart Lake

Glacial landforms, lakes, and peaceful woodlands make this an excellent alternative to more tourist-heavy routes.

11. Minnesota’s Edge of Wilderness Scenic Byway

Length: ~47 miles | Route: Grand Rapids to Effie

A quiet drive through Chippewa National Forest, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying solitude.

Seasonal Highlights: When to Go

Spring

  • Fresh blooms along the Door County and Great River Road

  • Melting ice and cascading waterfalls on the North Shore

Summer

  • Ideal for lake views and swimming stops along US-2 and Highway 61

  • Festivals and local markets add vibrancy to every town

Fall

  • Vibrant foliage on the Tunnel of Trees and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

  • Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Winter

  • Snow-dusted forests and frozen waterfalls make the North Shore magical

  • Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are plentiful along these routes

Tips for the Perfect Scenic Drive

  • Plan your route: Many of these drives have limited services, so fuel up and bring water/snacks.

  • Leave time to stop: Some of the best memories come from unexpected roadside discoveries.

  • Check conditions: Especially important in winter when roads may be icy or closed.

  • Pack your camera: You’ll find countless photo opportunities.

  • Stay overnight: Breaking up longer drives with a stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe or other local accommodations allows you to fully appreciate the experience.

Why The Inn at Stonecliffe is the Ideal Starting Point

Located on Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers guests an exclusive retreat amid Northern Michigan’s splendor. Staying here puts you within reach of some of the region’s most scenic routes, while also providing:

  • Elegant accommodations with water views

  • Access to on-site activities such as yoga, lawn games, and weekly live music

  • Dining experiences that showcase local flavors

  • A serene setting away from the bustle of downtown

Whether you’re beginning your adventure or returning for a night of relaxation after a day of exploration, The Inn at Stonecliffe complements the journey with its charm and comfort.

FAQs: Scenic Drives Up North

What are the most scenic drives near Mackinac Island? M-119 Tunnel of Trees, US-2 along Lake Michigan, and Brockway Mountain Drive are among the closest and most picturesque.

Is fall the best time to take a scenic drive up north? Fall offers incredible foliage, but summer and even winter also have their own unique beauty.

Can you drive on Mackinac Island? No, Mackinac Island does not allow motor vehicles. However, you can explore its roads by bike or horse-drawn carriage and use it as a base for drives in surrounding areas.

How long should you plan for a scenic drive? It depends on the route — from a couple of hours (Tunnel of Trees) to a full day (North Shore Scenic Drive). Build in extra time for stops.

Are there accommodations along the way? Yes. The Inn at Stonecliffe is an excellent option in Northern Michigan. Other inns, cabins, and resorts line most routes.

Sample Itinerary: A Weekend of Scenic Drives From The Inn at Stonecliffe

Day 1

  • Morning: Breakfast at The Inn at Stonecliffe

  • Mid-Morning: Ferry to mainland & drive M-119 Tunnel of Trees

  • Afternoon: Lunch at Legs Inn & explore Harbor Springs

  • Evening: Return to Mackinac Island for dinner

Day 2

  • Morning: Drive US-2 towards Manistique, stopping at beaches & Cut River Bridge

  • Afternoon: Visit Point Iroquois Lighthouse & Whitefish Bay Byway

  • Evening: Relax at The Inn at Stonecliffe with wine and live music

Day 3

  • Morning: Explore Mackinac Island by bike

  • Afternoon: Depart or extend stay to visit more northern routes

Conclusion

Scenic drives Up North promise more than just a journey; they offer a reconnection with nature, loved ones, and yourself. From Michigan’s majestic lakeshores to Minnesota’s wild north woods, the routes you choose will reward you with beauty and serenity at every turn.

Make your adventure even more memorable by staying at The Inn at Stonecliffe, where every detail is designed to complement the tranquility and splendor of the northern landscapes.

If you’d like help planning your northern scenic adventure or booking your stay, contact us today to begin your journey.

The Inn at Stonecliffe: A Landmark Reimagined. Mackinac Island’s Most Private Resort.

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