
Point La Barbe
Point La Barbe offers breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and a tranquil escape with scenic drives and birdwatching opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for bridge photos

Point La Barbe
Best Time
Best light for bridge photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Point La Barbe offers breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and a tranquil escape with scenic drives and birdwatching opportunities.
"Great place to view the Mackinac bridge and take pictures."

📸 Capture the Bridge
Bring your camera for incredible shots of the Mackinac Bridge. The views are truly breathtaking!
🚗 Enjoy the Drive
The drive to Point La Barbe is scenic. Take your time and enjoy the peaceful backroads.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mackinac Bridge Vista
Shoreline
Unobstructed views of the majestic Mackinac Bridge, perfect for photos and contemplation.

Scenic Backroad Drive
Road leading to Point La Barbe
Enjoy a peaceful drive along a backroad, taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Birdwatching Haven
Along the lake shore
Excellent opportunities for birdwatching with diverse avian species along the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Views & Serene Drives
Photography & Relaxation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Bridge
Bring your camera for incredible shots of the Mackinac Bridge. The views are truly breathtaking!
🚗 Enjoy the Drive
The drive to Point La Barbe is scenic. Take your time and enjoy the peaceful backroads.
🔭 Birdwatching Spot
Keep an eye out for local birds; it's a great spot for birdwatching along the lake.
⚠️ Respect Private Property
Much of the land is private, so stick to public access areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Bridge
Bring your camera for incredible shots of the Mackinac Bridge. The views are truly breathtaking!
🚗 Enjoy the Drive
The drive to Point La Barbe is scenic. Take your time and enjoy the peaceful backroads.
🔭 Birdwatching Spot
Keep an eye out for local birds; it's a great spot for birdwatching along the lake.
⚠️ Respect Private Property
Much of the land is private, so stick to public access areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Point La Barbe for its spectacular views of the Mackinac Bridge and the peaceful, scenic drive to get there. It's a favored spot for photography and a relaxing escape. Some note that much of the land is private, so it's important to stay within public access areas.
"Great place to chill out, view the bridge and watch the sailboats go by."
Joan Roark
"Great place to view the Mackinac bridge and take pictures."
Ted Wiborn
"Point Labarb is nice for the view and for a nice drive on a back road, however most of the land is private property. There is great bird watching along the road, on the lake."
David Carr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point La Barbe is accessible via a scenic backroad drive. It's located near St. Ignace, Michigan. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering a peaceful transition to the viewpoint.
While it's a bit off the main roads, following signs for Point La Barbe from St. Ignace will lead you there. The journey is part of its charm.
A car is essential for reaching Point La Barbe. The surrounding roads are well-suited for a leisurely drive, allowing you to soak in the Upper Peninsula scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Point La Barbe is generally a free public access area, offering a beautiful natural spot without any admission cost.
As a natural viewpoint and scenic area, Point La Barbe doesn't have set opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight hours for visitors to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
The primary photo opportunity is the stunning view of the Mackinac Bridge. You can also capture beautiful shots of sailboats and the surrounding natural landscape.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photographing the Mackinac Bridge. Daytime provides clear, unobstructed views.
The shoreline itself provides excellent vantage points. You can find various spots along the water's edge to frame your shots of the bridge and lake.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the scenic views of the Mackinac Bridge, take photos, go for a peaceful drive, and observe the local birdlife. It's a great spot for relaxation.
While there are no designated picnic facilities, the scenic beauty makes it a pleasant spot for a casual picnic. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.
Point La Barbe is more of a scenic viewpoint and drive rather than a destination with extensive hiking trails. The focus is on the bridge views and the peaceful surroundings.
Yes, you can often see sailboats passing by on the water, adding to the picturesque scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Mackinac Bridge
Many travelers come specifically to photograph the Mackinac Bridge from various angles, and Point La Barbe provides an excellent, less crowded vantage point compared to some other popular spots. The expansive views allow for framing the bridge against the sky or the water, creating memorable images. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the grandeur of this iconic structure and its setting within the Great Lakes.
A Tranquil Escape and Scenic Drive
This area is also noted for its birdwatching opportunities. The proximity to the water and the natural landscape make it a habitat for various bird species. Travelers who enjoy nature will find the quiet environment conducive to observing local wildlife. It’s a destination that appeals to those seeking a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature, away from the hustle and bustle.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit