Arch Rock, Mackinac Island

4.7

Geologic Formation · Nature / Park

Create an itinerary including Arch Rock

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.

Improve this listing »

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Arch Rock reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor traveler rating

2,782 reviews

Google

4.8

By nancyaN4460BV

We enjoyed our carriage ride through the national park and seeing the lovely Arch Rock. It is a good place to make pictures.

We enjoyed our carriage ride through the national park and seeing the lovely Arch Rock. It is a good place to make pictures. more »
By 634mistyl

We took a horse tour up to see Arch Rock. Unfortunately this only allows 5 to 7 minutes to visit and get pictures. If your time allows, I'd recommend renting a bike or walking in order to spend more..... more

We took a horse tour up to see Arch Rock. Unfortunately this only allows 5 to 7 minutes to visit and get pictures. If your time allows, I'd recommend renting a bike or walking in order to spend more..... more »
By w951fb4

Interesting formation. We walked up the approx 200 steps to see it. It’s not too steep and there are spots to rest, if needed, along the way.

Interesting formation. We walked up the approx 200 steps to see it. It’s not too steep and there are spots to rest, if needed, along the way. more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Chris M

We visited Arch Rock twice during our visit to Mackinac Island. The first time we visited was during the Horse Carriage Tour of the Island. You only have about 6 minutes to get of the carriage and snap a few pictures. The view was very beautiful and there was a kayak group in the water below. The second time we visited was the following day on a bike ride around the island. This time we could see the arch from the beach looking up. There are also stairs that you can climb to the scenic area at the top.

more less
By Saiprabhu B

Must visit spot in Mackinac Island. We parked our bikes at the bottom of the stairs and climbed 200 odd steps to reach the arch. The views are breathtaking. The water is turquoise in color and reminds you of the Emerald Coasts of Florida. Easily, one of the highlights of the park.

more less
By Vincent L

Being one of the must-see places on Mackinac Island, it was pretty crowded when we visited, especially when it was a Sunday. We hiked up from the back of the fort (Huron Rd) and then through a forest and got on to Arch Rock Rd which led us to the arch. Through the arch you could see the blue and turquoise lake water and the Lake Shore Dr and the bikers down. Through the boardwalk you can get out to a viewing platform where you can see Lake Huron. There is a path that you can go down to the road and admire the arch from down there.

more less
By Anindita Barman

Beautiful views! A short hike along a wooden staircase trail leads to the Arch Rock and offers beautiful views of the arch as well as of Lake Huron. Must visit.

more less
By Obie Rahman

Beautiful romantic place. You will enjoy ferry and horse ride also all over fantastic view. You can book hotel in the island. Bunch of hotels are there. Go fun & enjoy.

more less