West
Michigan Pike
An historic byway connecting the Beachtowns for an epic road trip.
The West Michigan Pike is a historic trail leading beachgoers from all over the nation to unique and scenic towns along the lakeshore. Developed in 1911 as a pioneering tourist road, the West Michigan Pike was designed for vacationers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Vacationers from Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, and all across the nation have explored this historic byway and found the perfect beach vacation, fun-filled family getaway, romantic retreat, and much more.
There’s no right or wrong way to explore the West Michigan Pike. Start an impromptu adventure anywhere along the Pike, and see where your wanderlust takes you. Plan your route from start to finish to find the perfect beaches, exciting activities, and one-of-a-kind attractions. Begin your vacation at the start of the Pike to the south in St. Joseph, the north in Silver Lake/Hart, or anywhere in between. Whether you’re traveling the West Michigan Pike for a day, a weekend, a week or longer, there are countless sights and exciting activities to explore.
View Attractions Along the West Michigan Pike
Whatever type of vacation you have in mind, whether you want to explore Michigan’s beaches, take a brewery and winery tour, try fun new activities, or you don’t have an agenda, head to the West Michigan Pike to explore the lakeshore. Breathtaking sights, sunny beaches, flourishing forests, and all types of exciting activities are waiting for you all across this historic byway.
Take a Drive on the West Michigan Pike
Check out the map of the West Michigan Pike and learn how you can and start your journey along this historic route.
The History of the West Michigan Pike
First came the cars. Then came an idea: to build an automobile touring route that stretched from New Buffalo to Mackinaw City.
Michigan by Motorcar
Read the 2019 USA Today “Michigan by Motorcar” Article
Plan your trip along the West Michigan Pike
The West Michigan Pike byway was added to the Michigan Department of Transportation’s collection of Pure Michigan Byways™ in 2016 based on its intrinsic historic, cultural, recreational, and scenic values.
