Nestled between Michigan’s two peninsulas is a small island in the Straits of Mackinac. Able to be reached only by ferry and with no cars allowed, Mackinac Island is a bikers paradise.

Island History

Mackinac Island (pronounced MACK-in-aw) was originally inhabited by the Anishinaabek people and was used as sacred burial grounds, as well as for fishing and trapping. In the 1620s, the area was used by the French for fur trading, and in the 1820s the island was the site of a battle between the U.S. and Britain. At that time, Britain had moved the military fort to bluffs high on the island, where it remains today as Fort Mackinac.

You can tour the fort as well as witness the cannon fire each morning.

No Horseless Carriages!

As the age of automobiles boomed in Michigan, motor vehicles started appearing on the island as well. In 1898 a group of horse carriage drivers deemed these “horseless carriages” dangerous and petitioned their ban on the island. They succeed in their quest, and Mackinac Island has been car-free since July 6, 1898. The rare exceptions are emergency vehicles, but everything else, even Amazon and UPS, deliver by horse-drawn carriage.

Because of this, the main modes of transportation on the island are horses and bikes. This lack of cars makes the island a road bikers’ paradise, free from the traditional dangers of sharing the road with motor vehicles.

Visiting the Island

The best time to visit is during the spring and summer, and there are two main ferry companies that offer regular rides to the island: Shepler’s Ferry and Mackinac Island Ferry Company. At the time of writing this article, Shelper’s Ferry is closed for maintenance, but the Mackinac Island Ferry Company is open to take passengers to the island. Contact each ferry for information about fees for bringing your bike on the ferry ride.

Mackinac Island can be visited for a day trip, but I suggest staying overnight on the island to ensure you have time enjoy all it has to offer. There is no camping, but there are plenty of hotel or bed and breakfast options. Check out the Mackinac Island tourism website for information on places to stay on the island, many of which include bike storage.

Biking the Island

To bike on Mackinac Island you can bring your own bike for an upcharge on your ferry ride or rent one once you reach the island. Check out this page for information about renting a bike once you arrive. Note that E-bikes are not allowed unless you qualify as having a disability.

Over 80 percent of the island is composed of the Mackinac Island State Park. Check out this listing on AllTrails to explore many of the Island’s hiking and biking paths. The most iconic ride on Mackinac Island is the 8.2 mile loop on State Highway M-185 that circumvents the entire Island. This is a must-do for the beautiful views of the Great Lakes and Mackinac Bridge. Another popular spot is Mackinac Island’s Arch Rock. This recognizable limestone structure is a unique rock formation you will not want to miss.

No matter what trail you choose, it is sure to be an adventure with views of the Great Lakes, small town charm, and no cars to worry about on the road (although do watch for horse droppings). Happy riding!

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Lauren Loria-Corbat is a writer and photographer who skis, rock climbs, hikes and backpacks. She loves introducing people to outdoor sports through journalism as well as hands-on teaching as a ski and climbing instructor.