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Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Arch Rock - A Natural Wonder on Mackinac Island
One of the most photographed spots on Mackinac Island is Arch Rock. This geological wonder is a natural limestone arch formed during the Nipissing post-glacial period when high Lake Huron levels and wave action created openings in the rock.
Arch Rock stands 146 feet over the Lake Huron shoreline- nearly 15 stories tall. In Anishinaabe-Ojibwa legend, the Great Creator blew the breath of life into the newly formed earth and created Arch Rock. Like nearby Devil’s Kitchen and Sugar Loaf, Arch Rock’s limestone formation took thousands of years by wind, water, and receding glaciers to be created. It is made of breccia limestone, a rare limestone for the Great Lakes. The limestone formation was so unique that it was one of the reasons early Mackinac Island residents lobbied for the island to become Mackinac National Park in 1875.
The views from Arch Rock are dramatic. Sweeping views of Lake Huron and Canada make this a great place to enjoy.
Arch Rock is located on the southeast portion of the island and is accessible via carriage or bike. It is an easy walk from Fort Mackinac. From the lakeshore, Arch Rock can be reached by stairs. From Fort Mackinac, continue on bike or foot along Arch Rock Road.
For more information on Arch Rock, please contact:
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
7274 Main Street, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
(906) 847-3783
Destinations Up North
Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan
Beaver Island Up North
Beaver Island is located 32 miles offshore of Charlevoix, Michigan and is the largest island in Lake Michigan.
The Little Traverse Wheelway
Bicyclists, walkers, and roller bladers can go from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix on the 26-mile long Little Traverse Wheelway.
Fisherman’s Island State Park
Fisherman’s Island State Park has more than 2,600 acres and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beach and is located just south of Charlevoix.
Wilderness State Park on Lake Michigan
Wilderness State Park’s 2,582 acres of natural area and 4,492 acres of wilderness area make this a great place to explore all year ’round.
Cheboygan Opera House
The elegantly restored Cheboygan Opera House is an acoustically superb, Victorian theatre that presents entertainment of many genres.
Searching for Petoskey Stones in Northern Michigan
A visit to Northern Michigan is not complete without a walk along the Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey stones.
McGulpin Rock Near Mackinaw City
McGulpin Rock, near Mackinaw City, has been used as a navigational tool by explorers and mariners since before the Pilgrims landed.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve in Harbor Springs
Wildlife sanctuary Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is located 3 1/2 miles north of Harbor Springs, between Lower Shore Drive and Lake Michigan.
North Central Michigan College’s Natural Area
North Central Michigan College’s Natural Area in Petoskey includes over five miles of trails that run through unique habitats.
Young State Park Near Boyne City
Young State Park outside Boyne City is a ‘year round delight for campers, hikers, snow lovers, swimmers and nature lovers.
Little Traverse Conservancy in Harbor Springs
Little Traverse Conservancy protects land and scenic areas and provides opportunities for all of us to appreciate the environment.
Cross Country Skiing in Charlevoix & Boyne City
With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.
Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey
Crooked Tree Arts Center is a place where artists from northern Michigan can display their talents and artwork to the public.
Hike and Bike the North Country Trail
The North Country Trail is the longest trail in the U.S. and stretches from North Dakota to New York, passing through Northern Michigan.
Downtown Mackinac Island
Get off the ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace to Mackinac Island and the first thing you’ll see is the historic downtown area.