Calling all history buffs and road trip enthusiasts! The West Michigan Pike awaits!
Built between 1911 and 1922, the West Michigan Pike holds the distinction of being one of the nation's first ever tourist roads. Designated a Pure Michigan Byway in 2016, this scenic 184-mile route winds its way along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Here's what makes the West Michigan Pike so special:
- Pioneering Spirit: Originally designated as M-11, the Pike was the first continuous road connecting Chicago and Mackinaw City, opening the door for automobile travel and tourism in West Michigan.
- Treasure Trove of History: As you cruise the Byway, keep an eye out for the 46 listings on the National Register of Historic Places. Muskegon County itself boasts two of these landmarks: the USS Silversides Submarine Museum and the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum.
- Markers Along the Way: Learn about the Byway's rich history with the 86 State Historic Markers scattered along the route.
- Pure Michigan's Scenic Gems: Pure Michigan has designated 20 particularly scenic stops along the Byway, and a whopping 7 of them are located right here in Muskegon County! These include the Dune Ridge Trail at Muskegon State Park, USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, Pere Marquette Park, William Field Hart-Montague Trail State Park, White River Light Station and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park. And these cultural stops: Frauenthal Center, Muskegon Museum of Art and the Hackley Hume Historic Site.
Ready to embark on this historic and scenic adventure? Grab your map (or fire up your GPS!) and start planning your West Michigan Pike road trip today!
Bonus: Looking for a detailed map of the Byway? Check out the Michigan Beachtowns Motorized Leisure Map HERE