Many people know that the Great Lakes State flower is the apple blossom. But few people know that we have a state wildflower and even fewer know where to find it. The rare and wonderful dwarf lake iris can be found in Mackinaw City, Michigan and it’s worth the trip.

The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is right on the Northern Michigan lakeshore.
Google Maps
Of course, Headlands is a world-renowned dark sky park that is very popular among astronomers. Most people visit the park in the late evening to see the beautiful Michigan night sky above.
Diana Robinson/Google
But the park has a hidden gem that is just as special but not as well known. There are over 5 miles of trails to explore and if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot Michigan’s state wildflower. Your best chance of catching the dwarf lake iris in bloom is between early May and the middle of June.
Brigitte Thompson/Google
According to Michigan State University, the flowers are threatened and legally protected in our state. Dwarf lake iris is found in coastal cedar-fir-spruce forests and limestone pavement/grassland or in coastal dune systems on the forested edge of the back dune.
Dwarf Lake Iris Mackinaw City Michigan
ezz_eddie/Flickr

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The park has 600 acres of mature forest with lush hardwoods and ferns. The Frog Pond Trail goes through a cedar swamp along McCormick Pond, and the Overlook Trail heads deep into fern woods that lead to a rock bluff.
Spectoros (Mitchell Gustafson)/Google
Dark Sky Discover Trail is a 1-mile paved and fully accessible trail that shows indigenous artwork, cultural docents, and regional photography that paints a picture of humanity’s relationship with the stars.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Families will love stopping at each Discover Station which represents every planet along with Pluto, the moon, and the sun.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park
If you plan on visiting the dark sky park to see the incredible starlight, arrive early in the day so you can walk the trails and possibly see the elusive and magnificent state wildflower.
lightphoto/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

For a map of the trails, visit the Headlands International Dark Sky Park website. Have you ever seen a dwarf lake iris? Let us know where you found it in the comments below. If you’re a flower lover, make sure you check out The Lilac Festival In Michigan That’s Unlike Any Other.

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15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA