The Remote Destination in Michigan Where the Effort Is Worth the Final View

Mackinac Island is a little slice of paradise located in beautiful Michigan that all too many folks associate with one thing and one thing only: fudge. Yes, Mackinac Island fudge is phenomenal, but there's a lot more to this little island than just tasty, tasty fudge. I consider this island to be one of the most beautiful in the world, and it's tough to believe it's located right here in the American Midwest. It looks and feels more exotic than that.

Anyone craving a beach day who's otherwise unable to leave Michigan should certainly consider the island as their new favorite vacation destination. It's stunning and every bit as worthy of the effort required to visit. Better still, one can see some truly jaw-dropping delights by hiking a trail known as the Fort Holmes Loop. If you arrive at Mackinac and realize you want to fully immerse yourself in it, this is the way. All you have to do is leave your car at the ferry terminal—they're famously not allowed on the island—and swap it out for some hiking boots.

It would be quite challenging to overstate the majesty of this hike. With incredible lake views and a geological wonder known as Arch Rock to look forward to, on top of tasty fudge, amazing woods, and more, you truly cannot go wrong with a jaunt around the Fort Holmes Loop. It's fairly easy and considered kid-friendly, so bring the whole family for an amazing experience nobody will soon forget.

Fort Holmes, the fascinating historical site for which the entire hike is named, sits at the very top of the island's highest elevation point. It's open from May through October and offers an intriguing glimpse into Michigan's history. The British originally constructed it in 1814, during the War of 1812. (I know, it reads weird, but bear with me here.) Once the war was over, U.S. soldiers peacefully occupied the island and renamed it Fort Holmes, a name that remains to this day.

It takes some doing to get here, but I promise: every little effort spent getting here is 100 percent worth it just for the ridiculously incredible views you'll find yourself dazzled by upon arrival. Most folks arrive on the island via ferry, though others opt for a more opulent arrival via private plane or a private boat. One must first drive up here, though, and even though it might be a lengthy trip depending on where you're from, it's absolutely worth it.

Whether you arrive on a boat, ferry, or plane, and whether you do the legendary Fort Homes Loop or not, one thing is absolutely certain: you'll find your breath taken away at every single twist and turn, amazed at just how awe-inspiring Michigan truly is. Living in Michigan can be challenging at times, thanks to our brutal winters, but places like this one make it all worth it.

If you're planning to visit Mackinac Island and need somewhere truly amazing to stay, check out the incredible Harbour View Inn, which looks too good to be true until you get there and realize that it is, in fact, true. Fair warning, though: prepare to fall head over heels in love with this incredible destination.

Do you have any favorite places in Michigan that require a little effort to reach? We'd love to learn more about all your favorite remote places in Michigan. Please tell us about them over on our Nomination page. If you're ready to start planning your next adventure in the Great Lakes State, head on over to Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner and see where it takes you.