Take the Scenic Route for a Visit to Mackinac Island

Are you ready to hear about another fantastic road trip destination? Whether you’re behind the wheel of your RV, towing your trailer, or loading up the family truck for the next great adventure, there’s one thing all great road trips have in common: the destination is just as memorable as the journey. If you’re planning your next escape into the great American outdoors, look no further than Mackinac Island in Upper Michigan. This picture-perfect destination blends old-world charm, lakefront views, and unforgettable experiences into one remarkable stop.

Tucked between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas where Lake Huron meets Lake Michigan, Mackinac Island offers a breath of fresh air in every sense. No cars are on the island—just bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and walking trails. It’s a place where time slows down, where the sound of waves lapping the shore mixes with the gentle clop of hooves on cobblestone streets. And best of all, getting there is half the fun—especially if your vehicle is prepped for the journey with Duraflap’s latest BlackLine mudflaps, engineered to protect your rig and show off your unique style every mile of the way.

Step Back in Time on Mackinac Island

Accessible by ferry from St. Ignace or Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island is a throwback to a simpler, quieter time. Once your rig is safely parked and you board the ferry, you’ll begin to leave behind the rush of modern life. As you approach the island, the view opens up to historic architecture, wooded cliffs, and turquoise waters.

Wandering through the heart of Mackinac Island is like stepping into a charming storybook village. The downtown streets are lined with colorful storefronts, rustic porches, and the inviting scent of freshly baked sweets drifting on the lake breeze. Each shop feels like a small treasure chest—offering everything from hand-poured candles and locally crafted artwork to cozy sweatshirts, handmade jewelry, and whimsical souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. Whether browsing for a memento to remember your trip or picking up a thoughtful gift, the pace is relaxed, and the friendly island atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time.

When hunger calls, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your cravings. You can enjoy a leisurely lakeside lunch with cool breezes off the water, grab a quick bite from a food cart or café tucked into a shady corner, or sit down for a hearty dinner featuring local flavors and home-style comfort food. Many eateries offer outdoor seating so you can people-watch while savoring your meal, and dessert is almost mandatory—whether it’s a scoop of creamy ice cream or a slice of something sweet to end the day. Dining on the island isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience of slowing down, enjoying the moment, and soaking in the unique blend of nature and nostalgia that makes Mackinac Island unforgettable.

For history buffs, Fort Mackinac is a must-see. Originally built during the American Revolution, it offers daily reenactments, stunning harbor views, and a deep dive into Great Lakes history.

If you’re more into nature than nostalgia, explore the many bike trails and walking paths through Mackinac Island State Park, which covers over 80% of the island. One highlight is Arch Rock, a natural limestone arch rising 146 feet above Lake Huron. It’s one of those “you-have-to-see-it-to-believe-it” sights that reward you with panoramic views after a refreshing hike or ride.

Camping at Straits State Park

Just minutes from the bustle of the ferry docks in St. Ignace, Straits State Park offers RV travelers a peaceful place to settle in while still keeping Mackinac Island within easy reach. Amongst tall pines and hardwoods, the park’s RV-friendly campsites provide a mix of partial shade and sun, many with electric hookups and easy access to clean restrooms and modern shower facilities. But what makes Straits truly special is its panoramic view of the Mackinac Bridge, especially at sunset when the sky glows gold and the bridge lights flicker to life across the water. Some campsites even have a clear line of sight to the mighty structure, giving you a front-row seat to one of Michigan’s most iconic landmarks.

Waking up here means sipping coffee to the sound of gulls and the distant hum of boats crossing the Straits of Mackinac. After breakfast, it’s a 5-minute drive from the campground to the St. Ignace ferry docks, where visitors can board a high-speed ferry to Mackinac Island. There’s plenty of parking available near the docks, including designated areas for oversized vehicles or trailers. It’s the perfect balance—camp under the stars in the serenity of Upper Michigan’s natural beauty, then spend your day immersed in the timeless charm of car-free Mackinac Island.

Make the Drive Just as Memorable with Duraflap

Let’s face it: a road trip to Upper Michigan is no small endeavor. Whether you’re coming from the Midwest, the South, or across the Rockies, your truck or RV will log some serious mileage. That’s where Duraflap comes in. Before you hit the road, protect your investment and keep your trailer, camper, or towed vehicle safe from flying road debris, gravel, and grime with Duraflap’s premium mudflaps—especially our newest offering, the BlackLine Series.

Introducing BlackLine Mudflaps: Rugged Protection, Bold Style

Every experienced road tripper knows: the right preparation makes all the difference. You wouldn’t set off on a thousand-mile adventure without checking your tires or inspecting your tow connections. So don’t forget one of the most important protective accessories you can add before you go—mudflaps that work hard and look great.

If you’re hauling a trailer, towing an RV, or simply planning a long journey with your pickup, Duraflap mudflaps—especially our BlackLine series—add a layer of defense that preserves your vehicle’s finish, protects what you’re towing, and reduces splashback in rainy or muddy conditions. Designed for drivers who want superior function without compromising on looks, Duraflap’s BlackLine mudflaps bring a fresh edge to our lineup of custom-fit protection. Plus, they’re easy to install and come with all the necessary mounting hardware. These mudflaps feature:

• A sleek, blacked-out look with laser-etched stainless steel plates for that subtle yet aggressive styling
• Custom-fit designs to suit most major truck brands, including Ford, Chevy, GMC, Dodge, and Ram
• Durable construction using our signature UV-stabilized material that won’t crack or fade over time
• Optional logos or blank plates to match your vehicle’s personality or keep it stealthy

Like all Duraflap products, BlackLine mudflaps are made in the USA and built to withstand whatever your next adventure throws your way. Whether you’re cruising past Lake Michigan beaches or winding your way through the scenic drives of Northern Michigan, these mudflaps will keep your vehicle protected and looking sharp.

Before your next road trip, visit Duraflap.com and browse our collection of premium BlackLine mudflaps and other truck and RV protection accessories. Your adventure deserves the best—and so does your truck or RV.

Drive smart. Stay protected. Hit the road with Duraflap.