MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. – Mackinac Island is set to open for the 2025 season following cleanup from the damaging ice storm.
The ice storm left thousands of residents without power and caused downed power lines and trees. Hundreds of miles worth of roads were blocked by fallen branches and debris in several areas, including Mackinac Island.
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“Northern Michigan was hit hard by recent ice storms, and Mackinac Island was no exception,” according to a social media post from the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “The storm left behind quite a mess and there’s a lot of cleanup still to do. For us, this is mostly on interior trails and State Park land.”
Despite the damage, crews have made progress, and the bureau said the island will be ready to welcome visitors for the season starting on April 25.
“We’ve made great progress,” said Myron Johnson, Park Manager for Mackinac Island State Park. “Granted, there is more work to be done, but our team is doing a fantastic job. We’ll be ready for the season.”
What’s open
All major roads in Mackinac Island State Park are open, including M-185, Arch Rock Road, Sugar Loaf Road, Fort Holmes Road and Crooked Tree Roads.
Landmarks such as Arch Rock, Sugar Loaf and Fort Holmes are now accessible.
According to the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, visitors can expect businesses to open on schedule for the 2025 season when the first seasonal ferries begin hourly service on April 25.
What remains closed
Mackinac Island officials said most hiking trails are impassable and remain closed. Some work on interior trails will continue into the 2025 season.
“First and foremost, we thank our dedicated staff,” said Mackinac State Historic Parks Director Steve Brisson. “We’re also grateful to the City of Mackinac Island, Mackinac Island Fire Department, Mackinac Island Police Department, the Mackinac Island Community Foundation, the Michigan National Guard, and others in helping us get so much of Mackinac Island State Park back open so we can welcome guests in a few short weeks.”
