Mackinac Island may be well-known for shops and fudge, but over 80 percent of the island—more than 1,800 acres—is actually made up of preserved natural habitat. The 61 miles of trails can be navigated on foot, bicycle, horseback, or in

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Mackinac Island may be well-known for shops and fudge, but over 80 percent of the island—more than 1,800 acres—is actually made up of preserved natural habitat. The 61 miles of trails can be navigated on foot, bicycle, horseback, or in some cases horse-drawn carriage; and many of the trails are stroller and wheel-chair friendly. Along the way you may see giant stone formations like Sugar Loaf and Arch Rock, Devil's Kitchen and Skull Cave, historic sites like the War of 1812 Battlefield and the British Landing, and plenty of northern Michigan wildlife.

Michigan's shortest highway, M-185, wraps around the island; and since there are no cars to compete with, it's a safe and easy road for navigating with a stroller or kids on bikes.

The park is open year-round, 24/7, and is especially beautiful and serene in the winter, with groomed trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing—though getting to the island in the off-season can require a bit of extra planning.

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