Extended Michigan Road Trip: Traverse City to Pictured Rocks with Hiking Adventures

Day 1: Exploring Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan on August 8, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe, known for its tasty omelettes and friendly service.
Head to The Omelette Shoppe located in downtown Traverse City.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Explore the stunning sand dunes and crystal-clear waters of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, just a short drive from Traverse City.
Drive west on M-72 towards Empire for about 30 minutes.
USD 25 (per vehicle entrance fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge

Enjoy a scenic lunch at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge with panoramic views of the Grand Traverse Bay.
Head to Aerie Restaurant & Lounge located at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Downtown Traverse City

Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Traverse City, visit local shops, and sample some cherry-themed treats.
Drive back to Traverse City and park in the downtown area.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen

Indulge in a flavorful dinner with Cajun and Creole dishes at Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen.
Head to Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen in downtown Traverse City.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More Hiking Around Pictured Rocks

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan on August 9, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore, a local favorite in Munising.
Drive to Munising and locate Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore.
USD 12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike the Chapel Loop Trail

Hit the Chapel Loop Trail in Pictured Rocks, a stunning 10-mile hike featuring beautiful views of Lake Superior and waterfalls.
Head to the Chapel Loop trailhead within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Free, 4-5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch before the hike and enjoy it amidst nature at one of the scenic overlooks along the trail.
Bring your own lunch to have during the hike.
USD 15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Grand Sable Dunes

After your hike, explore the Grand Sable Dunes area for breathtaking views of the coastline and the opportunity to do some light walking.
Drive to the Grand Sable Dunes parking area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pictured Rocks Pizza

End your day with a delicious dinner at Pictured Rocks Pizza, offering a variety of gourmet pizza options.
Head to Pictured Rocks Pizza in Munising for a tasty meal.
USD 25, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure at Pictured Rocks

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan on August 10, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dogpatch Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Dogpatch Restaurant, known for their generous portions and local flair.
Drive to Munising to find The Dogpatch Restaurant.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking at Pictured Rocks

Experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from the water by kayaking along the majestic cliffs and vibrant rock formations.
Join a kayaking tour or rent kayaks from a local rental service in Munising.
USD 60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Brownstone Inn

Relax and enjoy lunch at The Brownstone Inn, known for its friendly service and selection of sandwiches and salads.
Head to The Brownstone Inn in Munising.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hike to Mosquito Falls

Take a moderate hike to Mosquito Falls, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and refreshing waterfalls.
Drive to the Mosquito Falls trailhead within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Traverse City

Make your way back to Traverse City, reflecting on your amazing adventures.
Drive south back to Traverse City for about 1.5 hours.
Free, Drive time

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cherry Cricket

Conclude your trip with dinner at The Cherry Cricket, known for their sweet and savory cherry-based dishes.
Head to The Cherry Cricket in Traverse City.
USD 35, 1.5 hours
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