Since I've moved up to the Mitten State, many folks have told me that I'm not a real Michigander until I visit the Upper Peninsula. There are so many things to see in the "hand" portion of the state that I haven't had a chance to get up there yet!

So, I'm listening to them and creating myself an incredible road trip that showcases some of the most iconic views Michigan has to offer. Let me know if there are any other incredible Upper Peninsula views I should add!

1. Log Slide Scenic Overlook - Grand Marais, Michigan

We're starting this road trip off easy - with Log Slide Scenic Overlook near Grand Marais. This is a short, easy hike - as long as you stop at the overlook. Other hikers report that the trip down the dunes to the beach isn't bad, but the climb back up can be a struggle.

We're here for the incredible Michigan views, though, so we're staying at the top of what used to be an actual slide used in the mining industry. While no remnants of the slide remain, visitors can still learn the history of the area via displays along the trail.

The panoramic views at the first stop on our road trip are breathtaking. From this vantage point, visitors can see the Au Sable Lighthouse to the West. If you look East, you'll see the Grand Sable Dunes.

2. Upper Overlook - Munising, Michigan

No matter where you look at each stop on this epic 4-hour road trip, the views are sure to be some of the best you've seen in your life. At Upper Outlook in Munising, you can take in one of the most iconic views in Michigan: Miners Castle.

Another easy hike that you'll want to have your camera ready for, the Lake Superior views at this incredibly scenic stop are simply amazing. Luckily, there are two overlooks at this spot, providing two different, but equally interesting views.

At the upper overlook, you'll be greeted with a picturesque view over the lake to the Miners Castle formation. The other overlook takes you a bit more up close and personal with the famous rock formation, making it easy to snap some lesser-seen photos.

3. Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook - Big Bay, Michigan

Our next stop on this road trip filled with iconic Michigan views is Thomas Rock Overlook. This Upper Peninsula trail is an easy hike, with lots of signs identifying flowers and animals you might see on your journey.

This hidden gem of a scenic view is perfect for those who might have trouble navigating more challenging trails. It's easy, well-marked, with no stairs - only gentle inclines. Bonus: there are lots of benches along the way should anyone in your group need a little rest!

And you'll want to catch your breath before taking in the views from this Upper Peninsula perch, because they will literally take your breath away, particularly in the fall. The highlight of this stop is the stunning view of the Big Bay Point Lighthouse to the North.

4. Bears Den Overlook - Watton, Michigan

Some folks say the walk to Bears Den Overlook is so easy it's "not even a trail at all", making it a perfect entry onto my "easy hike/incredible view" road trip through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

In addition to wonderful photo opportunities, Bears Den Overlook near Watton, Michigan is also an excellent spot for bird watching. Before moving to Michigan, I couldn't tell you a European Starling from a Chimney Swift, but since living here birding has become one of my favorite pastimes.

The view from this overlook is tree-heavy, looking over Sturgeon Gorge. As you would expect, this is another spot, like most Michigan overlooks, that visitors claim is absolutely gorgeous when the leaves are changing colors in the fall.

5. Lake of the Clouds Overlook - Ontonagon, Michigan

The final stop on this road trip focusing on Michigan's stellar views is the one people tell me about most often: Lake of the Clouds Overlook in Ontonagon, Michigan. Located in the Porcupine Mountains, it is one of the most photographed things in the whole Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

One of the things I love most about this stop is that it is accessible to those using a cane or walker. The accessible trail is longer, but not as steep as the other one.

This is a must-stop on your Upper Peninsula road trip - the views are stunning year-round. Yes, even when the Lake of the Clouds is frozen over - take a look at the photo above!

Well, I am now getting all excited for my sometime-in-the-near-future road trip to see all these iconic views in Michigan. One thing that I did note in all the reviews of these fabulous stops is that they are buggy in the spring and summer months. So I'll be sure to pack a bug net and all kinds of bug spray for protection.

If you take this road trip through the Upper Peninsula, I'd love to hear about your experience. It'll help me better plan my future trip! Tell me about it in the comments!