The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting colder, and before you know it, the trees of Northern Michigan will be changing into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. Fall is one of the best times to explore the region, and there are plenty of scenic fall color drives through Northern Michigan. One of the best begins and ends in Grayling, Michigan.
The Grayling–Torch Lake–Lake City Loop is an approximately 170-mile drive that showcases forests, lakes, rivers, small towns, and some of Northern Michigan's most beautiful fall scenery. Best enjoyed from late September through mid-October, the route also offers plenty of opportunities to get out of the car and explore.
Start in Grayling
Grayling is the perfect starting point for a Northern Michigan fall color drive. Before heading out, take some time to enjoy the area around the city.
The Au Sable River is one of the region's highlights. Its winding waters provide a beautiful way to experience fall, whether you're hiking along the river, taking a scenic drive nearby, or paddling by canoe beneath towering evergreens and colorful hardwoods.
Just outside Grayling, Wellington Farm Park offers another seasonal stop. This 60-acre living-history farm recreates rural America in 1932, with cider, donuts, a corn maze, hayrides, and fall activities. Weekend hayrides in October offer a fun way to take in the autumn scenery.
For more color, head south of Grayling to Higgins Lake State Park. North and South Higgins Lake State Parks are surrounded by hundreds of acres of maple, oak, and pine forest, with more than 13 miles of combined hiking trails. Lake Margrethe, west of Grayling, is another peaceful place to stop for a picnic, launch a boat, or enjoy the fall colors.
From Grayling to Lake City
Leave Grayling on US-27 and travel south before turning west toward Lake City on M-55. This portion of the route slows the pace and takes you through a landscape filled with forests and inland lakes.
Lake City sits along the eastern shore of Lake Missaukee, surrounded by thousands of acres of public land and forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you travel through the area, including deer, turkey, grouse, and other woodland species.
Continue toward Manton via M-42, where forests surround the community on both sides. Lake Billings is a good place to stop for fishing, canoeing, or camping, while the Manton Pathway and Garden provides a short nature walk with bridges, benches, and opportunities to see wildlife.
From Manton, head north on M-131 through the Pere Marquette State Forest toward Fife Lake. This small resort community is a relaxing place for a fall picnic, particularly at Lakeview Park or along the shore of Fife Lake.
Torch Lake and Northern Michigan's Chain of Lakes
Continue toward the Traverse City area before heading north toward Torch Lake on US-31. The drive through orchards, farms, forests, and lakes provides plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Torch Lake is one of the major highlights of the loop. Its blue waters create a dramatic contrast with the reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn. The surrounding Chain of Lakes adds even more scenic views, with more than 70 miles of shoreline across Torch Lake, Torch River, Elk Lake, Lake Skegemog, Clam Lake, Grass River, and Lake Bellaire.
For a nature-focused stop, visit the Grass River Natural Area, less than 20 minutes from the Torch Lake area. More than seven miles of trails wind through forests, wetlands, streams, and lakes. Boardwalks and accessible trails make it an excellent place to slow down and experience the fall landscape on foot.
Return Through Kalkaska to Grayling
From the Torch Lake area, travel south toward Kalkaska and consider a side trip to the Sand Lakes Quiet Area. Located within the Pere Marquette State Forest, this natural area features five lakes surrounded by rolling oak and pine forests, with trails for hiking and biking.
Finally, head east on M-72 toward Grayling. This final stretch is a beautiful conclusion to the loop, with colorful hardwoods and towering pines lining the highway. Stop along the way to take photographs, then return to Grayling and spend more time along the Au Sable River enjoying the colors of autumn.
Plan Your Northern Michigan Fall Adventure
The Grayling–Torch Lake–Lake City Loop is more than a scenic drive. It is a chance to experience the forests, rivers, lakes, trails, wildlife, and small communities that make Northern Michigan special.
For the best information on Grayling, Michigan, including things to do, places to explore, seasonal activities, and ways to enjoy the area, visit the Grayling Visitors Bureau website. Make Grayling your home base this fall and discover why this Northern Michigan gem is an ideal starting point for a colorful autumn adventure.