Michigan Fall Colors 2026: 12 Delightful Ways to Make the Most of Fall in Michigan, Plus Peak Color Predictions
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12 Exciting Ways to Experience Fall Colors in Michigan
Michigan is filled with beautiful scenic drives perfect for fall leaf-viewing.
We all know that Michigan fall colors make the perfect backdrop for the fall activities our state loves so much.
If you want to immerse yourself in the fall colors this year – and go beyond the scenic drive – here are a few ideas throughout the state that will add a little adventure to your autumn.
When Will Michigan Fall Colors Peak?
Fall color predictions for MICHIGAN
Updated for 2026!
Before you head out, you need to know when the Michigan fall colors will be prime. We suggest using the nationwide fall color prediction map to help with timing your fall color adventures.
The interactive prediction tool forecasts that parts of the Upper Peninsula will start to see a bit of color starting the week of September 8, 2026, and that most of Michigan will have peak fall colors around October 6, 2026.
100% of the Michigan fall colors will be past peak color by the week of October 20, 2026. Sorry, November!
Places & Ways to Enjoy the Fall Colors in Michigan
Move over, regular fall color tour, these are the ideas that will get you out of the car and into the action.
Take a look at this map to help you decide and then hit the road for your Michigan fall adventure!
Map of Delightful Things to Do in the Fall in Michigan
1 – Saddle Up and See the Fall Colors on Horseback
Swap the car for a horse and you’re ready to off-road your way through the color-changing forests of Michigan.
Even novice riders can take in the beauty of fall on a guided trail ride.
Many places offer one-hour rides and will coach you through what you need to know for a successful horseback experience.
Where to Find Michigan Fall Colors Trail Rides:
– Karin’s Horse Connection in Caledonia, MI
– Healey’s Outback Ranch in Stanwood, MI
– Stony Lake Stables in New Era, MI
– Sleeping Bear Forever Horse and Wagon Tours near Glen Arbor, MI
– Sleepy Hollow Horse Trail in Laingsburg, MI
2 – Ride a Chairlift
Crystal Mountain Resort
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683
On Saturdays and Sundays in October, you can ride the chairlift at Crystal Mountain Resort, about 20 miles southwest of Traverse City. to panoramic views of three counties during the peak of the fall color season.
Fall chairlift rides are $15 per person/day & $5/day for riders ages 3 – 6 years old. Stay at Crystal Mountain and ride for free as a guest of the resort.
Enjoy the views at the top for as long as you’d like!
Tickets are available for purchase online.
» More Places for Chairlift Rides in Michigan
» Details
3 – Book a Pontoon Boat and Tour the Waters Surrounding Tahquamenon Falls
Sonny’s Tahquamenon River Boat Rental
33615 Tahqua Trl, Eckerman, MI 49728
Get yourself to the Upper Peninsula for this delight.
Hike the trails around Tahquamenon Falls and then book a boat at Sonny’s Tahquamenon River Boat Rental to see the surrounding area and drive the Tahquamenon River way.
Because the colors in the U.P. generally change sooner than in Michigan’s lower peninsula, we recommend booking your boat in early October.
You can book a boat either half day (8 AM – noon) or full day (8 AM – 4 PM).
» Details
4 – Pumpkin Train Ride and Fall Colors
Coopersville and Marne Railway
306 Main St, Coopersville, MI 49404
Ride on the Coopersville and Marne Railway about 20 miles northwest of Grand Rapids, and get yourself in the fall mood. If you desire a top-notch experience, book a premium class ticket and receive a glass of local cider and donut!
The Pumpkin Train runs weekends throughout October.
Passengers are invited to wear their Halloween costumes for a full on pumpkin train and fall color tour experience. Tickets sell fast so be sure to book your tickets ahead of time.
» Details
5 – Soar Over the Colors on a Fall Airplane Tour
Orchard Beach Aviation
2323 Airport Rd, Manistee, MI 49660
Orchard Beach Aviation in Manistee will take you high in the sky for super Michigan fall colors views – starting around $40 per person.
Midway between Muskegon and Traverse City, Manistee is home to the far-reaching (over a half-million acres) Manistee National Forest, as well as miles and miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.
This sweet pairing makes for vivid lake views punctuated by endless acres of Michigan fall colors.
When seen from a bird’s point of view, it’s unforgettable.
» Details
6 – ATV Your Way Through a Colorful Canopy
Big Bear Adventures
4271 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749
About 25 miles south of the Mackinac Bridge, Big Bear Adventures in Indian River offers off-road ATV tours during the fall color season.
When the complete fleet is available, they can accommodate up to 12 riders.
They have (1) 4-seat ATV, two side-by-side ATVs (2 seats), and two 2-up quad riders (2 seats).
Passengers must be 12 years or older to ride on a 2-up vehicle and 6 years or older to ride in a side-by-side.
7 – Hike to the Empire Bluff Boardwalk
Empire Bluff Trail, Honor MI 49640
25 miles west of Traverse City, you’ll find some of Michigan’s best fall views. The boardwalk at Empire Bluff Trail in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a sight to behold at any time of year.
But in autumn with the Michigan fall colors? It’s otherworldly.
The 1.5-mile round trip trail starts by winding up and over forested hills and valleys until you reach the top of the dune.
At this point, you’ll find a lengthy boardwalk with Michigan sand dune-soaked views stretching for miles in all directions.
Plan to arrive for sunset and the color dial turns up in intensity.
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8 – Float Down a River
9590 M-37, Wellston, MI 49689
If you’re prone to tipping, floating a river in the fall might not be at the top of your idea list, especially if I told you there’s a river in lower Michigan with a little whitewater.
Well, there is such a river – the Pine River – and I have a solution for you: fall river rafting.
The Pine River, near Cadillac and the Manistee National Forest, has a section of Class I rapids that will definitely test your canoeing abilities, but are easily handled by a river raft.
If you put in at Peterson and get out at Low Bridge, you’ll experience the rapids. It’s about a 3.5 hour float time for that trip.
Work with the good people at Pine River Paddlesports to get equipment, drop-off, and pick up.
9 – Wind Your Way Along the Au Sable River Road National Scenic Byway
5401 Monument Rd, Oscoda, MI 48750
Stand over the high banks of the Au Sable River in the fall and you’re in for a feast of Michigan fall colors in northeast lower Michigan.
Pack water bottles and granola bars, because if you have time and the energy, you’ll find yourself hiking many of the trails along the 22-mile National Scenic Byway in the Huron National Forest.
Be sure to save time to visit Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center and Grounds, too.
And, if you need a place to stay, we recommend the Hale Beach House (get a pontoon boat!) or the nearby PRIVATE ISLAND!
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10 – Walk Among the Trees During Fall Colors on the Michigan SkyBridge
Boyne Mountain Resort
1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Experience fall colors from a different perspective on the Michigan SkyBridge in northern lower Michigan near Petoskey. Take the chair lift up the hill to the sky bridge and enjoy the elevated view.
While it’s obvious that you can walk across the SkyBridge, it’s almost a secret that, when there isn’t snow, you can also walk the SkyBridge Trail.
Good to know: The bridge lists and rocks, especially when a lot of people are on it! As you walk, you might want your sea legs to keep with with the bridge’s movement. It’ll sway to your steps or tilt if a group gathers on one side for photos.
You’ll save time and money if you purchase your tickets online.
» Skybridge Details
11 – Zip Line Your Way Through Fall Colors
Boyne Mountain Resort
1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Running Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October, the Zipline Adventure at Boyne Mountain Adventure Center is another adrenaline-pumping way to experience the Michigan fall colors.
This 2.5-hour tour takes you from the top of the mountain down the hill and through the canopy. If you’re looking for fresh air, speed, and big views, this is a must-do.
You can also make Boyne your home base with a variety of area and onsite lodging options available.
» Zipline Details
» Michigan Zipline Places
12 – Take a Horse-Drawn Elk Viewing Carriage Ride Through the Colors
Thunder Bay Resort
27800 M-32, Hillman, MI 49746
Most people don’t realize that, in addition to their popular golf course, Thunder Bay Resort, is also home to a 160-acre Elk preserve located 20 miles west of Alpena.
Thunder Bay offers Elk Viewing Carriage Rides (and sleigh rides) most any time of the year, but they are extra special in the fall when the colors are most vibrant.
You can even book a package getaway that includes a fall color Elk Viewing Carriage Ride, Gourmet Dinner & Wine Tasting if you’re so inclined!
» More Details
Where To Next?
Let’s be honest, fall in Michigan truly is the best! We’re always on the hunt for those hidden, fall gems.
Where will you go next?
