M-22 Scenic Highway

M-22 is a highway in Northwest Michigan that runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline. It can be accessed from various points, including Manistee to the south and Traverse City to the north. Many travelers start their journey in Traverse City and head north or south along the route.

The M-22 highway is a 116-mile loop around the Leelanau Peninsula. You can drive it in either direction, but many suggest starting in Traverse City and heading north for stunning coastal views.

Without stops, the drive can take around 3 hours. However, to truly experience the charming towns and scenic overlooks, plan for a full day or even two.

Yes! Arcadia Scenic Turnout (Inspiration Point) offers incredible views after climbing 120 steps. There are also numerous pull-offs along the route for spontaneous photo opportunities.

Absolutely! M-22 is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, with peak colors typically seen from mid-September to mid-October. It's a popular route for fall color tours.

No, M-22 is a public highway and does not require any tickets or fees to drive on. However, some attractions along the route, like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, may have entrance fees.

M-22 is a public highway, so there are no entrance fees to drive on it. Enjoy the scenic views freely!

As a public highway, M-22 is accessible 24/7. However, individual towns, shops, and attractions along the route will have their own operating hours.

You can stop at designated pull-offs, scenic overlooks, and in the towns along the route. Always prioritize safety and pull over in safe, legal areas.

No specific passes are required for M-22 itself. However, if you plan to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, an entrance pass is necessary.

Iconic spots include Sleeping Bear Dunes, Fishtown in Leland, Point Betsie Lighthouse, and the Arcadia Scenic Turnout (Inspiration Point). Many smaller pull-offs also offer stunning Lake Michigan vistas.

Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography along the coast. Golden hour can enhance the colors of the dunes and the lake.

Look for the M22 highway signs themselves for a classic photo op! Also, consider capturing the charming architecture in towns like Fishtown or the vastness of the sand dunes.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for lighthouse details or wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the lake's reflections.

Drone usage is subject to regulations, especially within National Lakeshores. Always check and adhere to FAA and National Park Service rules before flying a drone.

Charming towns like Traverse City, Glen Arbor, and Leland offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to farm-to-table restaurants. Suttons Bay has a new winery with great food. +1

Look for fresh Lake Michigan fish, cherries (especially in season), and local produce. Many restaurants emphasize farm-to-table dining.

Many towns have casual eateries and cafes that are welcoming to families. Pizza places and ice cream shops are usually a hit with kids.

Yes, the Leelanau Peninsula is a renowned wine region with numerous wineries. Suttons Bay has a notable winery with farm-to-table food.

Yes, many scenic overlooks and parks, like the Arcadia Scenic Turnout, have picnic tables. It's a great way to enjoy the views with a packed lunch.