Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Michigan Lakeshore, M-22

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule.

With towering dunes, endless beaches, wilderness islands and miles of trail to explore, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is definitely the main feature along the M-22 Scenic Drive.

One thing you won’t want to miss is the Dune Climb. It’s the most popular thing to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and involves climbing a series of sand dunes with fantastic views of Lake Michigan in the distance.

A mini-drive within the main drive, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive was once nominated for the Most Beautiful Place in America series. This slow but extremely beautiful 7-mile loop drive is not to be missed, taking in viewpoints, dunes, a covered bridge, changing forests - including a ghost forest - and even the Sleeping Bear itself

Northwest Michigan is a hotspot for birders, and the Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve is one of the best spots along this route to view rare and endangered species. The Arcadia Marsh is one of Lake Michigan’s few remaining coastal marshes, and visitors can access the marsh through a boardwalk trail that leads straight through the heart of the preserve.

This roadside viewpoint offers one of the most scenic views of Lake Michigan. This is one of the highest points along Lake Michigan so it offers one of the tallest views around. Climb the 120 steps to the top lookout platform for an even more dramatic view.

With its sandy rich soil and cool climate, the Leelanau Peninsula is an ideal spot for growing grapes. Visitors will find 25+ vineyards scattered throughout the peninsula specializing in riesling and ice wine, a sweet dessert wine unique to this region.

This picturesque coastal town is the best place in northwest Michigan to get acquainted with old-time fishing life. Visit the historic town to see preserved shanties along the shore, and be sure to leave room for some locally caught smoked fish or a fried fish sandwich.

The Point Betsie Lighthouse marks the southern entrance of the Manitou Passage, one of the Great Lakes' most treacherous stretches of water. It’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan and guided tours are available of the 19th century keeper’s residence and 34-step tower.

Traverse City has long been known as the “Cherry Capital of the World”. In July and August, the countryside surrounding Traverse City is filled with fruit stands and markets brimming with baskets of sweet, dark cherries. All things cherry are celebrated in the annual National Cherry Festival held in Traverse City each July.