A natural limestone arch in Mackinac Island State Park, Arch Rock stands 45 m (146 ft) above Lake Huron. The arch, which was created after the end of the Wisconsin glacial episode, forms a perfect window through which to view the lake. Because the sediment forming the arch is not ideal for creating natural bridges, this particular arch is uncommon in the region. Native Americans saw the arch as a place of divine power and based many stories and legends around it. To get here, you can walk or bike the trails, or take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. Add Arch Rock and other attractions to your Mackinac Island trip itinerary using our Mackinac Island tour planning website .
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Arch Rock Reviews
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This really is a great getaway destination and sights like this Arch Rock formation add to the trip. One of a few little gems you come across on Mackinac Island when on a bike ride or walk. Really is ... more »
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We stopped by here on a carriage tour and it was a great photo op place. If you can go on a clear sky day the pictures are awesome! more »
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The carriage tour always stops at this beautiful site. You can look down though the arch and see bicyclists riding on the road below. I didn't include a picture because so many others already have. more »
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It's awe inspiring. Arches made of Breccia are rare. It is a mile from town no matter which way you go. Before 9am there are few visitors. The Carriages go by there. But you only have 7 minutes. Then after 6pm It's nice again. If you take the road around there are 200 plus steps. I find the stairs worthwhile. Bathrooms and a drinking fountain with a step control. If walking or bicycling take the Arch Rock bike trail. I think on Mackinac Island only horses and Carriages banned on bike trails. If no one around do Stomp on the viewing platform.
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Great place to visit. You can see it from the ground on the main road around the island or go up on top from inside the island. The horse tours take you up here and waits a few minutes to let you walk up. I never get tired of this place. Nice to stop by on the way to fort Holmes and sugar loaf. Have a great time and share your thoughts about it with everyone!
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Another part of the Mackinaw experience. I got to go take pics with the arch rock during a horse carriage ride through the town. The only thing I didn't like about seeing the rock and it's surrounding area, all the beauty, is that we didn't get to stay there longer. We were on a tight schedule. Because of it being a school trip. Next time I go I think I'm gonna rent a bike and take that tour on my own time so that I can enjoy the sites as long as I want to. Can't wait to visit again. This rock is amazing and the view is absolutely breathtaking.
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Very scenic spot to stop at the island. If you want to save a few dollars, it's an easy hike to the Arch and then once you reach the top, can take the route back all downhill to the Fort and Grand Hotel. It can get crowded at the Arch when the horse tours come by but they're only stop for 7 minutes then have to move on. So if you're patient, it clears out for a few minutes and can have some nicer views without all the people
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I wanted to see this when I was searching online for things to do. Its beautiful! We took the horse and carriage tour. Well worth the $36 adults and $20 (i think) for kids 5-12. It also included the butterfly house which we loved! There are 2 butterfly houses...one on the hill in the park area and one down on the main thoroughfare "the original butterfly house". Im sure both are nice but the "original one" has over 100 butterflies verses the one we saw on the tour only had 40-50. The butterflies land on you too...so pay attention for nice pictures:)
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