Wawatam Park

The Historic Pathway self guided walk will let you enjoy the great outdoors and stretch your legs.

You will stroll around town to kiosks describing a part of our broad history, from shipping to colonial battles. It winds its way through the Village and includes nearly 40 detailed markers recalling much of Mackinaw’s history. Most of the markers are located along Mackinaw City’s main thoroughfares.

• Historic Pathway Map
• Historic Pathway Brochure
• Audio Tours
  

Located in the main residential area, Old School Park offers a gazebo and extensive outdoor playgrounds to entertain, challenge and amuse children of all ages.

The Headlands boasts 600 acres of land containing walkable Lake Michigan shoreline and trails. Once a private retreat, it is now a County Park where residents and visitors alike can hike, bike and walk in a quiet and scenic forest setting. The Headlands is located approximately three miles west of Mackinaw City following Central Avenue.


Catch some sun and enjoy a swim at Mackinaw’s Municipal Bathing Beach. Located approximately four miles west of Mackinaw City, it’s known as “First Beach”. Beyond that is “Second Beach” and both are great places to enjoy a sunny day on a quiet sugar-sand beach or a beautiful sunset on Lake Michigan.

Just 8 miles past The Headlands lays Wilderness State Park. It contains some of the most pristine of Lake Michigan’s beaches. Whether you like to camp, hike or just enjoy the beach, Wilderness Park is worth the drive. An extensive 12 mile trail system winds through the park giving both nature lovers and hikers an enjoyable outing. Stop and ask a park ranger for a trail map and trail conditions.

Two small inland lakes, Paradise (Carp) Lake and French Farm Lake, will test your fishing skills. Paradise Lake is located just 5 miles south of Mackinaw City and boasts a marina, lake access and boat launch and some of the best walleye, bass and pan fish fishing around. The entrance to French Farm Lake is located just one mile south of the Headlands entrance. You’ll experience nature in its most peaceful state as motors are restricted. There are picnic and launch sites available.

Also check out our geocaching page!