Driving time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Mileage: 40 miles
The Tunnel of Trees is renowned for its beauty, especially for fall color tours. However, the two-lane road, M-119 is also known as the Heritage Route. This driving tour takes you along this route not only to witness the majestic beaty of the area, but to encounter its long, storied heritage.
Stop #1: Harbor Springs
Just a few miles north of Petoskey (read this walking tour) is the historic town of Harbor Springs. The main street makes quite a first impression: It’s the classic two-lane street flanked by eateries and retail shops, with the road ending at a white steeple church. Classic America (and stunning at Christmas). Harbor Springs isn’t particularly large, with only a couple thousand full-time residents. Summertime brings flocks of tourists and seasonal vacationers, filling homes and cottages – a tradition for many families since the fur and lumber days. One of these famous areas includes a string of historic, colorful Victorian cottages along the Little Traverse Bay shoreline. In the summertime, Harbor Springs has a city beach that’s just a short walk from downtown; there are several more beaches just north of town if you feel like searching for Petoskey stones, going in for a dip, or simply sitting and listening to the lapping of the waves. In the fall, there’s the Harvest Festival, put on by the Harbor Springs Farmers Market.
Stop #2: Good Hart
When you departed Harbor Springs, you drove north along M-119, also known as the Tunnel of Trees. The Tunnel of Trees doesn’t actually end until you reach Cross Village. This 20-mile stretch of twisting Michigan road is one of the top spots for viewing fall foliage; however, the drive during the spring and summer months is also downright enchanting. It’s narrow, so drive accordingly. Morning hours are generally best and less crowded. Be cautious when you reach Devil’s Elbow and Horseshoe Bend, which offers some stunning views of Lake Michigan. You’ll eventually reach the little town of Good Hart. Stop in at the General Store, established 1934, and try one of their world-famous pot pies. You’ll also find other delicious foods, apparel, and gifts that perfectly capture the local area, whether you choose something as a souvenir or simply want to experience a taste of the region back at the campsite. Another stop to make is St. Ignatius Church, which has been located at the same site since 1833 (and two churches). Services are offered in the summer.
Stop #3: Cross Village
Continue on your northern trek and enjoy the drive through the dense Tunnel of Trees. Finally, you’ll reach Cross Village. This quaint little town has a lot of history – and natural beauty. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, it’s a perfect hamlet in which to slow down and simply be. There are several historical sites around town, all viewable via a self-guided walking tour . One of the top destinations is Legs Inn. This restaurant has been family owned and operated for more than 100 years and features homemade Polish food and locally caught whitefish. The building itself gets a lot of attention for its artistic and unusual architecture. Legs Inn doesn’t take reservations and is open seasonally. Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal, walk down Waterfront Drive to Cross Village Beach. This is a sandy, pleasant spot that’s perfect for relaxing and reflection.
Stop #4: Wilderness State Park
The Tunnel of Trees designation ends at Cross Village, but since you’re already so far north, it’s practical to continue on a little farther to explore Wilderness State Park. During daylight hours, you’ll have to pick and choose how to explore the 26 miles of shoreline and 20 miles of trails. One of the most popular trails is the Sturgeon Bay Trail. This 4.7-mile trail runs parallel to the shoreline and is more remote, so you’ll encounter more wildlife and fewer people as you wander through and admire the forest scenery. Take another trail to the beach to watch the sunset. But the fun doesn’t need to stop when darkness settles in. This state park is a designated dark sky preserve, but it’s only nine miles away from the Headlands Dark Sky Park. You’ll get a vast view of the night sky, the perfect way to cap off your adventurous day.