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Explore Michigan's Hidden Gem: Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/18 .. n-s-hidden-gem-pierce-stocking-scenic-drive.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 10:55 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Discover Michigan’s Hidden Gem: The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

If you’re hunting for a road‑trip that marries rugged natural beauty with quiet, unspoiled charm, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is the answer. The Travel + Leisure feature on this 75‑mile ribbon of highway paints a vivid picture of a journey that starts in the town of Escanaba, winds through dense forests and limestone cliffs, and culminates at the dramatic shoreline of Lake Superior. Below is a concise but comprehensive overview of what the article highlights, enriched with key links that offer deeper context and practical details for travelers.

1. Where the Route Begins and Ends

• Start Point: Escanaba – a coastal city that serves as the gateway to the Upper Peninsula. Escanaba is home to the Mackinaw State Park, a popular destination that offers camping, hiking, and spectacular lake views.
• End Point: Pierce Stocking – a small, unincorporated community where the highway terminates at a series of lookout points overlooking the lake’s turquoise waters. From here, a short detour brings you to the Mackinaw Island and the historic lighthouse, a favorite subject for photographers.

The drive itself follows U.S. Route 2 (the “Northwest Michigan Scenic Byway”) for the majority of its length, then turns onto M‑37 before heading westward toward the shore.

2. Why This Drive Stands Out

Travel + Leisure emphasizes the uniqueness of the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for several reasons:

• Unmatched Lake Views: The road hugs the shoreline of Lake Superior, providing uninterrupted vistas of the water and its rugged cliffs.
• Diverse Terrain: From dense deciduous forests to sheer limestone bluffs, the drive offers a microcosm of Michigan’s natural diversity.
• Hidden Trails & Waterfalls: Along the way, several short trails—such as the Mackinaw River Trail and the Sault Ste. Marie Bay Trail—provide opportunities to explore waterfalls and wetlands up close.

The article notes that the route is part of Michigan’s larger network of scenic byways, including the Great Lakes Shoreline Scenic Byway, which adds context for those interested in mapping out a longer coastal adventure.

3. Must‑See Stops

The article links to the Michigan State Parks page for each of these locations, giving travelers up‑to‑date information on hours, fees, and accessibility.

4. Best Times to Visit

Seasonality is a key factor in experiencing the drive’s full charm:

• Spring (April–May): Fewer crowds, blooming wildflowers, and the chance to see migrating birds.
• Summer (June–August): Ideal for kayaking, swimming, and hiking. The warm, sunny weather brings out the vivid blue of Lake Superior.
• Fall (September–October): Spectacular foliage; the forest turns gold and crimson. Many local festivals (like the Escanaba River Festival) occur during this period.
• Winter (November–March): Snow-covered cliffs and frozen waterfalls create a winter wonderland, perfect for snowmobiling and cross‑country skiing.

Travel + Leisure recommends planning a trip around your preferred activity, whether it’s a beach‑side hike or a snowy adventure.

5. Where to Stay

The article points out that accommodation options range from rustic cabins to comfortable bed‑and‑breakfasts. The Upper Peninsula Lodging Guide on the Travel + Leisure site links to listings such as:

• Grand Hotel Escanaba – a historic, waterfront hotel with easy access to the park and marina.
• Pierce Stocking Cabins – private cabins that offer the isolation of the forest and direct lake access.
• Mackinaw River B&B – charming rooms with a lake view, perfect for a cozy getaway.

For travelers looking to camp, the Michigan State Parks website lists available campgrounds along the route, complete with facilities and booking information.

6. Food & Drink

Food lovers will find a range of options that celebrate the region’s fresh catch and hearty, Midwest‑style fare:

• Fish House on the Shore – specializes in locally sourced trout and perch.
• Escanaba Coffee & Bakery – offers freshly baked pastries and a wide selection of coffee drinks.
• Mackinaw Café – a local favorite for breakfast, known for its homemade biscuits and a strong local brew.

Travel + Leisure’s article links to each restaurant’s menu and reservation page, making it easy to plan meals along the drive.

7. Activities Beyond the Road

While the drive itself is the main attraction, the article encourages visitors to explore other nearby activities:

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak from the Mackinaw River Outfitters to glide along the calm waters of the lake.
• Fishing: The lake offers both freshwater and saltwater species; the Michigan Fish & Wildlife Department website provides up‑to‑date fishing regulations.
• Wildlife Watching: The area is a haven for bald eagles, moose, and migratory birds, especially during the fall migration period.
• Art & Culture: The Escanaba Art & History Museum showcases local Indigenous art and regional history.

The article references the Michigan Fish & Wildlife page for licensing and species information, ensuring that travelers can comply with local regulations.

8. Planning Your Trip

To make the most of your journey, the article suggests the following itinerary:

1. Day 1: Arrive in Escanaba, explore the town, and spend the afternoon at Mackinaw State Park.
2. Day 2: Drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, stopping at key lookouts and short trails.
3. Day 3: Rent a kayak or enjoy a fishing excursion, then unwind at a local bed‑and‑breakfast.

For budget travelers, the article notes that the drive is free and open to the public, though fuel costs and tolls (if any) should be factored into the budget. The linked Michigan State Highway Administration page offers toll and maintenance fee details.

9. Final Thoughts

Travel + Leisure’s feature on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive positions it as a quintessential Upper Peninsula experience: a quiet, picturesque stretch of road that rewards every traveler with stunning natural vistas, outdoor adventure, and a taste of Michigan’s maritime heritage. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, this drive offers a little something for everyone. The article’s links to state parks, lodging, and activity providers give you all the practical information you need to turn the scenic drive into a memorable vacation. Happy travels!