20 gorgeous spots to see the fall colors in Michigan

By Metro Times editorial staff on Sun, Sep 15, 2019 at 1:32 pm

The temperature is changing, and so are the leaves here in Michigan. You can drive up to the Upper Peninsula or up north to see the most breathtaking views, or stay in metro Detroit and see what we have to offer. No matter where you go, the sights will be lovely.

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Dead River

Marquette County, MI
Hike the trails of Marquette and catch the falls of Dead River during autumn to see a dazzling display of red, orange, and yellow leaves.

Photo via Pure Michigan / Facebook

Omena

Nothing beats Northern Michigan when it comes to fall colors, and Omena, which is located on the western side of Grand Traverse Bay, is the best of the best. With numerous wineries and organic farms, this town offers delicious food as well as views of lush foliage.

Photo via Jim Sorbie / Flickr Creative Commons

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Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Ontonagon, MI
The Upper Peninsula is known for its fall colors, and a visit to the Porcupine Mountains — the largest state park in Michigan — is the perfect way to enjoy the magic of autumn.

Photo via Pure Michigan / Facebook

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Ann Arbor

Not only does Ann Arbor have hidden spots to see the trees, but the University of Michigan campus is like walking around Hogwarts during the fall.

Photo via Deb Nystrom / Flickr Creative Commons

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Tunnel of Trees

Emmet County, MI Drive through the falling leaves in the Tunnel of Trees along M-119, where the changing leaves turn this classic Michigan spot into an explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Photo via Scott Wedell / Flickr Creative Commons

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Seven Lakes State Park

14390 Fish Lake Rd, Holly, MI 48442; 248-634-7271
Seven Lakes State Park in Holly is less than two hours from Detroit, and it’s well worth the trip. The park offers trails along a beautiful lake and it has no shortage of brightly-colored vegetation.

- Photo via Michelle Caldwell / Flickr Creative Commons

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Traverse City

This classic Michigan destination is just as picturesque in the fall as it is in the summer. Against a backdrop of fall foliage, snack on some local apples, walk a corn maze, or visit a pumpkin patch.

Photo via Bill Vriesema / Flickr Creative Commons

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Sleeping Bear Dunes

Empire, MI
A hike along Michigan’s most famous dunes is the perfect way to welcome cooler temperatures and changing leaves.

Photo via gabe popa / Flickr Creative Commons

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Middleville

This small Grand Rapids suburb, located in the Thornapple River Valley, is home to numerous trails and parks that are the perfect destination for a fall road trip.

Photo via neukomment / Flickr Creative Commons

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Barton Nature Area

1010 W. Huron Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103; 734-794-6230
The Barton Nature Area in Ann Arbor lines the Huron River, offering views of the water along a tree-lined path.

Photo via Deb Nystrom / Flickr Creative Commons

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Copper Harbor

Located at the tippy-top of the Upper Peninsula, Copper Harbor is absolutely breathtaking during the fall. It’s worth the drive.

Photo via MotoWebMistress / Flickr Creative Commons

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Sault Ste. Marie

On the very tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, visitors can cross the bridge to view Lake Superior in both Sault Ste. Marie and Ontario, Canada.

Photo via Google Maps

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Tahquamenon Falls State Park

41382 W. M-123, Paradise, MI 49768; 906-492-3415 Known for its waterfalls, travelers can camp, walk the trails, and explore the woodland in this Upper Peninsula park.

Photo via GoogleMaps

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South Haven

South Haven is home to one of the state’s favorite lighthouses. After some leaf peeping in the town’s park, walk the boardwalk and enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Photo via Rachel Kramer / Flickr Creative Commons

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