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

mackinacisland.org

Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Beaver Island

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

The Little Traverse Wheelway

Bicyclists, walkers, and roller bladers can go from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix on the 26-mile long Little Traverse Wheelway.

Fishermans Island State Park

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.

Cheboygan Opera House

Cheboygan Opera House

The elegantly restored Cheboygan Opera House is an acoustically superb, Victorian theatre that presents entertainment of many genres.

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.