National Scenic Byways and Other Recreational Drives

Black River Scenic Byway

The scenic beauty along the Black River Scenic Byway's picturesque countryside draws people to this area to enjoy nature at its best. Extending 12 miles on Black River Harbor Road from Bessemer to Black River Harbor, you will tour past Big Powderhorn Mountain Village -- with chalets nestled in the woods against the ski slopes of Big Powderhorn Mountain; the Royal Palm Ranch -- a nationally recognized equestrian school; North Country Scenic Trail -- boasting picturesque vistas and scenic waterfalls; Copper Peak -- a world class ski flying facility with the largest ski jump in the Northern Hemisphere, located at the site of an old copper mine; Black River Harbor -- a unique harbor with beautiful stretches of Lake Superior beaches, docking facilities, picnic areas and a wooden suspension bridge. A beautiful drive in any season!

River Road Scenic Byway

The River Road Scenic Byway travels 22 miles along the south bank of the Ausable River on the Huron-Manistee National Forests and offers visitors panoramic views of reservoirs surrounded by forested banks as much as 150-200 feet high and opportunities to view bald eagles, spawning salmon, and a history of the lumber industry in the north woods.

Michigan Drives You'll Survive

Two drives— Point Huron to Tawas City and Lumberman's Monument—that give you a pleasant day out in country that you might not expect to find.

Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway

Come and enjoy an outstanding scenic drive on the Hiawatha National Forest's Whitefish BayScenic Byway. This two lane road that follows along the Lake Superior shoreline is rich with history and scenic beauty. It passes by Whitefish Bay and nearby lakes and streams. Native Americans, missionaries, fur traders, and early settlers have been drawn to the wild lands and resources of Whitefish Bay for over 2000 years. Today, ore boats and ocean-going vessels pass as they ply the magnificent waters of the Great Lakes. All along the Byway, there are scenic views where wildlife can usually be seen at any time.