Experience the remarkable hues of the state from an alternative viewpoint.
Experience the state’s stunning colors like never before—soaring above dense forests ablaze with fiery reds, golden yellows, and burnt orange hues, where every treetop becomes a brushstroke in nature’s masterpiece. From this elevated vantage point, the vibrant landscape unfolds in panoramic beauty, revealing hidden valleys, winding rivers, and mountain ridgelines kissed by autumn’s glow. It’s not just a change in perspective—it’s an immersion into a living canvas that transforms familiar terrain into something breathtakingly new. Whether from a scenic overlook, a hot air balloon, or a quiet mountaintop trail, seeing the season from above deepens your connection to its fleeting brilliance and ignites a sense of awe only nature can inspire.
- From a gliding kayak
Michigan’s natural water bodies are truly remarkable. When you embark on a kayaking adventure, you will view the foliage surrounding the state’s waters in an entirely new way (even if you are inexperienced). Additionally, for more kayaking experiences, do not miss the vibrant tree canopy of Crystal River in Glen Arbor or the wild beauty of Pine River in Manistee. of Crystal River in Glen Arbor or the rugged beauty of Pine River in Manistee. In Copper Harbor, you can traverse the Keweenaw Water Trail in Lake Superior to witness magnificent islands and rock formations framed by brilliantly colored trees.
- From a photogenic hiking trail
For breathtaking lookout points that will enhance your camera roll, consider hiking to Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook or Brockway Mountain, which rise above the vibrant forests that line Lake Superior. You may also opt to visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which offers a magnificent view of the state’s most significant waterfall.
- From a foliage cruise
Allow others to handle the navigation while you unwind on one of Michigan’s exquisite foliage cruises. Experience the expansive beauty of Lake Superior and its breathtaking, otherworldly rock formations with Pictured Rocks Cruises. For an exhilarating open-water experience on Lake Michigan, complete with foliage views, board Aquastar Cruises or the Star of Saugatuck, where you will ride the waves and enjoy some of the most beautiful colors of the season. In Thunder Bay on Lake Huron, explore Michigan’s maritime enigmas with Alpena Shipwreck Tours. Utilizing glass bottom boats for an up-close experience, you can embrace the lore, legends, and wonders of the spooky season while admiring the foliage along the shoreline.
- From Instagrammable roadside stops
Get your camera prepared, as Michigan’s most beautiful roads present ample opportunities to stop and capture that perfect image. The meandering roads of Black River National Forest Scenic Byway (CR-513) and Copper County Trail National Byway lead to the glistening lake panoramas of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, discover The winding paths of Black River National Forest Scenic Byway (CR-513) and Copper County Trail National Byway guide you to the shimmering lake vistas of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive set to seize the grandeur of the state’s fall foliage. For more coastal views, turn onto US-23, which runs alongside the Lake Huron shoreline. On Michigan’s other coast, do not overlook the iconic Tunnel of Trees on M-119, a breathtaking road lined with trees that has been featured on numerous social media feeds—for very good reason!
- From an outdoor brewery
Grab a drink and take a seat on the patio at one of Michigan’s vibrant outdoor breweries. The state is home to one of the most robust brewery scenes in the nation, with a homebrewing movement that dates back to the early 1800s and a Great Lakes climate that is particularly well-suited for hop cultivation. This is especially apparent in the fall, when locals and visitors alike gather for a cold drink under the trees. Do not overlook Alpha Michigan Brewing Company or Haymarket Brewery & Taproom for delightful views of the foliage that complement the brewery experience. At Austin Brothers Beer Company in Alpena, you can relax on a breezy patio and enjoy the crisp autumn air. If you are looking for an outdoor gathering spot beneath the tree canopy, be sure to explore Hop Lot Brewing, where you can observe the leaves falling while relaxing on comfortable outdoor couches.
- From a scenic park
Explore one of Michigan’s charming state parks and magnificent outdoor locations for a prime view of fa
ll’s idyllic scenery. At Palms Book State Park, you can discover a turquoise spring and overlook thousands of treetops to observe the season’s hues springing to life. At Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, take
in the powerful rush of a 100-foot waterfall surrounded by vibrant foliage. In addition, the illustrious Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to impressive golden sandy dunes that ascend above Lake Michigan, accompanied by the bright leaves of the shifting trees that intertwine within the picturesque view.
- From a beautiful overlook
Lookout points are crafted for you to halt and gaze, so ensure you make the most of them! Absorb the beauty of Lake Huron and the foliage of Mackinac Island from the 660-foot front porch of the Grand Hotel located on the island. At Lake Michigan, proceed to Pyramid Point Overlook at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. In Manistee, explore Arcadia Overlook, commonly known as Inspiration Point, to observe where the aut
umn colors
blend with the brilliant blue waters.
Should you prefer a lookout location paired with a meal, visit Fitzgerald’s to witness the sunset over Lake Superior while enjoying barbecue. Rose’s, found in Grand Rapids, is placed directly on Reeds Lake, providing spectacular views of the golden trees that surround the water. Located in Traverse City, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge showcases large floor-to-ceiling windows that present exceptional views of Grand Traverse Bay and the nearby vegetation.
- From horseback
Foliage vistas are experienced in a unique way when complemented by the steady rhythm of horses’ hooves. In Marquette County, situated in the Upper Peninsula, one can admire the stunning oak forests along the Thunder Valley Equestrian Trail, which offers nearly nine miles of pathways. In the vicinity of Traverse City, you can ride through the tree-lined Boardman River Valley at Ranch Rudolf or try your hand at Western-style riding at Outrider Horseback Riding. Discover 15 miles of trails at Ionia State Recreation Area, where, if you are willing, you and your horse can even tackle a 10-challenge equine confidence course. At Elk Hill Equestrian State Forest and Trail Camp in Vanderbilt, you can visit a segment of Michigan’s Shore-to-Shore Trail, a 420-mile trail system that connects the state from east to west.