Best Fall Color Drives Near Traverse City

Fall in Traverse City is pure magic! The rolling hills and forests around Traverse City come alive with some of the most vibrant autumn colors in the state. Visitors flock here to see the fiery reds and oranges of the maples, the golden yellows of birch and aspen, and the rich burgundy leaves of the oaks.

As a longtime local, I’ve explored nearly every backroad, overlook, and hidden gem this region has to offer in search of the season’s best color. In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite fall color drives—routes I’ve personally taken many times over the years—to help you make the most of fall in northern Michigan.

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Best Fall Color Drives Near Traverse City

From lakeside bluffs with sweeping views to winding backroads through dense hardwood forests, these fall color drives will reward you with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northern Michigan. Pair your drive with a stop at a farm stand, a hike through a nature preserve, or a glass of wine at a local winery—and you’ve got the perfect fall day.

The colors around Traverse City tend to peak in mid-October, but the timing can vary each year — so it’s a good idea to check local fall foliage reports to plan your trip.

Here are a few of my favorite scenic fall color drives near Traverse City.

Old Mission Peninsula Drive: A Picturesque Fall Journey

Just north of Traverse City, the Old Mission Peninsula stretches nearly 19 miles into the heart of Grand Traverse Bay. This scenic drive winds through rolling farmland, orchards, and vineyards, eventually leading to the historic Mission Point Lighthouse. Along the way, scenic turnouts offer sweeping views of both East and West Grand Traverse Bays—especially beautiful with the leaves changing color.

The peninsula is also home to eleven of the best wineries Traverse City has to offer! Fall is an especially great time to visit – it’s harvest season, and many wineries offer new releases at this time of year.

As you cruise along, you’ll pass charming roadside farm stands brimming with pumpkins, apples, squash, and other autumn bounty—be sure to bring a taste of fall home with you!

Must-See Stops Along Old Mission Peninsula Include:

• Pelizzari Natural Area: A short trail system ideal for stretching your legs and enjoying a peaceful walk through autumn woods, just minutes from the start of the drive.
• Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn: One of the most iconic wineries on the peninsula, with panoramic views of both East and West Grand Traverse Bay.
• Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Perfect for wine tasting paired with fall views. Known for their scenic setting and dog-friendly patio.
• Bowers Harbor Park: A hidden gem! This peaceful little beach is just down the road from Bowers Harbor Vineyards. It’s a family-friendly spot with a playground and picnic tables, and plenty of opportunity for skipping stones.
• Old Mission General Store: Step back in time at this quirky, historic store that dates back to the 1850s. Grab a deli sandwich, old-fashioned candy or warm apple cider. They also stock paper goods if you’re planning a picnic stop.
• Local Farm Stands: Keep an eye out for roadside stands offering pumpkins, squash, apples, homemade jams, and fresh-baked fall treats. Some operate on the honor system—so bring small bills or change.
• Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery: A great spot to stop for lunch or dinner. Warm up with artisan pizzas, truffle fries, or their signature craft brews.
• Old Mission Lighthouse: Located at the very tip of the peninsula, this 1870 lighthouse offers history, hiking trails, and great photo ops—especially beautiful during peak fall color.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive: A Fall Color Paradise

Located within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers one of Northern Michigan’s most unforgettable fall experiences. The 7.4-mile loop winds through hardwood forests, sweeping overlooks, and towering dune. While it’s stunning year-round, autumn steals the show.

There are twelve official scenic viewpoints along the way. You’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views in Northern Michigan!

Must-See Stops Along The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Include:

• The Covered Bridge: The drive begins with a quaint, wooden covered bridge that looks like it’s straight out of New England. It’s one of the most photographed spots along the route.
• Glen Lake Overlook: Enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of Glen Lake, split in two by the scenic M-22 highway. On a clear day, the water is a stunning turquoise color – you’ll definitely want your camera!
• Dune Overlook: This third stop along the drive is where you begin to get a sense of the majesty of Sleeping Bear Dunes. You’ll get a great view of North and South Manitou Islands, Pyramid Point, Sleeping Bear Bay, the historic D.H. Day farm, Alligator Hill and Glen Lake.
• Lake Michigan Overlook: This just might be the crown jewel of the route. The viewing platform stands 450 feet above Lake Michigan, with a view of where sand dunes dramatically drop into the water below. You’ll be able to see the Manitou Islands offshore, and Point Betsie in Frankfort, 15 miles away to the south.
• Cottonwood Trail: This short hike is a great way to experience the park if you don’t have time for longer hikes. The 1.5-mile trail loop winds through dunes and cottonwood trees.
• Sleeping Bear Dune Overlook: This is where you’ll get a look at the legendary dune that gives the park its name. It was formed about 2,000 years ago. According to Anishinaabek legend, a mother bear waits here for her cubs to return after escaping a forest fire across Lake Michigan.
• North Bar Lake Overlook: This is a beautiful spot with a picnic area. You’ll be treated to a lovely of the narrow sandbar that separates North Bar Lake from Lake Michigan, as well as a great view of Empire Bluff.

Give yourself at least two hours if you stop at all twelve of the scenic spots along the route. Plan on even more time if you decide to go on some of the short hikes along the way.

The charming towns of Empire, MI, and Glen Arbor are close to Sleeping Bear Dunes, and are great spots to find a place to eat for lunch or dinner.

The scenic drive is open to vehicles from April through November, 9:00 am to thirty minutes after sunset. You’ll need a National Park Pass, which can be purchased at the entrance or the park headquarters in Empire.

The Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route

One of the most iconic fall drives near Traverse City is the Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route along M-119, a 20-mile stretch between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. Although a bit of a drive from Traverse City (about 1.5 hours), it’s absolutely worth the trip for its breathtaking autumn colors.

Plan on a full day trip, because there are dozens of great stops along the way – shops, galleries, hiking trails and places to enjoy food and wine.

If you go when the colors are at their peak, you won’t be alone – be ready for lots of slow-moving traffic!

Must-See Stops Along The Tunnel of Trees Heritage Route Include:

• Thorne Swift Nature Preserve: Located just 4 miles outside of Harbor Springs, this is the first official stop along the Tunnel of Trees. It’s one of the Tunnel’s most peaceful, lesser-known gems. This 30-acre preserve features easy hiking trails, a boardwalk through wetlands and a path to a quiet Lake Michigan Beach. We saved the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve for our journey back, when we were ready for a break from a full day of crowds.
• Pond Hill Farm: Just a few miles into the drive, make a stop at Pond Hill Farm. They host Farm Fest weekends during October, where you can enjoy live music, hayrides, cider and donuts, getting lost in the corn maze, and – best of all – pumpkin bowling! There is also a farm market, café and a brewery. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer.
• Good Hart Village: This tiny, town is a perfect stop halfway through the drive. Be sure to visit the Good Heart General Store for fresh-baked pies, homemade pot pies, and quirky souvenirs. A stop at the Good Hart & Soul Tea Room is in order if you are a lover of tea!
• St. Ignatius Church Overlook: Just outside Good Hart, pull off near St. Ignatius Church to enjoy one of the best views along the route. This bluff-top overlook gives you a panoramic glimpse of Lake Michigan. It’s the perfect spot for photos!
• Cross Village & Legs Inn: At the end of the route, you’ll arrive in Cross Village, home to the legendary Legs Inn. This historic restaurant is the perfect finale to your drive. They’re famous for serving up traditional Polish fare, unlike any other we’ve found in the region. Think pierogis, kielbasa, and smoked whitefish spread. Inside, you’ll find a wild collection of antler chandeliers, driftwood sculptures, totem poles and taxidermy. Outside, the bluff-top patio offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

Cruise The Breezeway Fall Color Tour

Stretching 26 miles through the heart of northern Michigan, the Breezeway (Route C-48) links Atwood to Boyne Falls. In autumn, this quiet country road transforms into a vibrant corridor of reds, oranges, and golds.

As you cruise through Ellsworth, East Jordan, and Boyne Falls, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. You’ll want to stop and explore — everything from farm stands and antique stores to hiking trails, parks, and local restaurants.

While you’re welcome to enjoy the drive anytime, the Annual Breezeway Fall Color Cruises are typically held the last Saturday of September, plus the first two Saturdays of October. On these event days, you’ll discover added fun with special events and discount coupons at local businesses.

The official route begins at Royal Farms in Atwood, about a 45-minute drive from downtown Traverse City. Plan on making your way through the farm’s corn maze before heading out on route C-48!

Must-See Stops Along The Breezeway Include:

• Royal Farms Market & Corn Maze: A fall favorite! Pick apples or pumpkins, and sample homemade cherry pastries or hard cider from their tasting room. Get lost in the 5-acre corn maze! If you’re doing one of the official Cruise the Breezeway Saturday tour, this is where you’ll pick up your trail map, travel tips, and discount coupons that you can redeem at local businesses along the way.
• Drumlin fields and rolling farmland along C‑48: Not a “stop” per se, but the scenery here is a highlight! Keep an eye out for drumlins – a series of rolling, tear-drop shaped hills that were created by the glaciers that covered Michigan 10,000 years ago. You’ll know that you’re crossing the drumlin fields when you get the sensation you’re riding on a roller coaster! Periodic pull‑offs create great opportunities for taking photos.
• Ellsworth Community Park: Located right in the village of Ellsworth. Overlooks Ellsworth Lake, has a playground, picnic pavilion, labyrinth garden, and a large Adirondack chair: the perfect photo op!
• St. Clair Lake / Six Mile Lake Natural Area: Just east of Ellsworth. A quarter mile hiking path gives you the chance to stretch your legs. The boardwalk goes through a cypress wetland forest.
• East Jordan – Sportsman’s Park: On the banks of the Jordan River. Has a boardwalk, viewing platform, gazebo, fishing piers, and public restrooms. You’ll also discover sculptures and other pop-up art installations.
• Southern Railroad Locomotive No. 6: This This nearly 200,000 pound steam train dates back to the city’s logging days.  It’s on display in Sportsman’s Park.
• Jordan Valley Glassworks — This bright yellow studio specializes in blown glass art. Watch a professional glassblower at work. Check out custom-made vases, yard art, stained glass wall hangings and chandeliers. Don’t miss their glass-blown pumpkin patch outside in the yard!
• Boyne Mountain Resort Chairlift Ride: Cap off your tour with a chair lift ride at Boyne Mountain Resort, where you’ll get a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the fall landscape — the perfect ending to a perfect autumn day!

Pro Tip: We did the official Cruise The Breezeway Tour at the end of September in 2024. The fall colors hadn’t fully kicked in yet. I’d recommend touring more toward the second week of October if possible.

Places to Stay Near Fall Color Tours

Near Old Mission Peninsula: The Alexandra Inn

Locally owned and operated, The Alexandra Inn is known for exceptional hospitality and personalized service. This boutique hotel is located right on the waterfront with its own private beach on East Grand Traverse Bay.

It features 32 guest rooms, giving the Alexandra a more intimate feel than nearby larger hotels. It’s about a five-mile drive from the hotel to Old Mission Peninsula.

What sets the Alexandra apart? The Blush Rooftop Terrace! Panoramic views of East Grand Traverse Bay make this one of the best places to take in beautiful fall foliage. Bring a blanket, sip a seasonal cocktail or warm drink, and watch the colors change across the bay.

Near the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive: The Empire Lakeshore Inn

The Empire Lakeshore Inn is a great home base for accessing Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Inn Empire is very close to the park’s Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, and only 3.3 miles from Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.

Rooms have kitchenettes, and private balconies or patios. The Inn also provides easy access to local restaurants, shops, and the beach.

Near The Tunnel of Trees: The Best Western of Harbor Springs

The Best Western of Harbor Springs is conveniently located near the start of the Tunnel of Trees Scenic Route. This family-friendly hotel is also close to other attractions in the area: ski resorts, golf courses, and of course, Grand traverse Bay! It’s about 38 miles to the Mackinac Bridge.

The hotel has an indoor pool and fitness room. You’ll also be close to lots of shops and restaurants in the quaint village of Harbor Springs.

Near the Breezeway Scenic Route: Hotel Earl

Hotel Earl is a luxurious hotel located within downtown Charlevoix. A variety of shops and restaurants are within walking distance. It’s about 12 miles to the start of the Breezeway, and about 30 miles to the Tunnel of Trees.

Each room includes a spa bath and a balcony. The rooftop bar offers handcrafted cocktails and small plates, plus stunning views of Round Lake and downtown Charlevoix. The Earl also has a lobby bar with a relaxed setting.

The Wrap-Up

No matter which route you choose, a fall color drive near Traverse City will leave you with memories long after the leaves have fallen. I hope this guide inspires your own fall adventure!