Ferry Boat To Mackinac Island un-edited

Mackinac Island State Park was established in 1895—Michigan’s first state park. For twenty years before that it had been Mackinac National Park, the United States’ second national park. Today, over eighty percent of Mackinac Island is State Park property, and most this park land remains in its natural condition to be enjoyed.
A great variety of historic and natural resources provides something of interest for every Mackinac Island visitor. Historic landmarks, breathtaking vistas, spectacular rock formations, quiet forests and inspiring nature trails are just minutes away. The sites are accessible by foot or bike, rented horse or buggy, sightseeing carriages or horse-drawn taxi.

Mackinac Island State Park is an outdoor experience so prepare accordingly for various weather conditions. Automobiles were banned on Mackinac Island in 1898. The absence of cars has created a unique, charming and historic ambiance. But, how do you get around?
Most visitors travel by foot power, either walking or pedaling. Many of the prominent sites are less than a mile from the Visitor’s Center. Other popular sights are for more adventurous hikers. Even though there are no cars to contend with, walkers need to be cautious, watching out for horses and bikes, using sidewalks and foot paths where they are available.
Aside from walking, visitor transportation is via horse or bicycle. Mackinac Island is a bicyclist’s paradise, especially the road around the island. Eight miles in circumference, Lake Shore Boulevard (M-185) is the only state highway where cars are banned! Another great way to see the island is by horsepower. Horse-drawn carriage tours of the island’s scenic and historic sites are very popular.
While the park includes over 80% of the island’s land, park boundaries meander irregularly, particularly near the downtown area and the west end.

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