M-119 Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route

Northern Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees

The Tunnel of Trees is a Scenic Heritage Route spanning roughly 20 miles of the M-119 highway in northern Michigan. This beautiful road follows the Lake Michigan shoreline just north of Harbor Springs to Cross Village. Despite being a “highway” the road is very winding and narrow. The name is derived from its beautiful tunnel-like tree canopy. The Tunnel of Trees is an iconic route, especially picturesque during the fall, when the leaves change color. Visitors should drive with care and watch for cyclists, wildlife, and oncoming traffic at all times. Lastly, realize that the “Tunnel” winds through various properties that are almost all privately owned. Please respect the residents and land owners throughout the Tunnel by not littering or parking on private property.

Things to do:

• Route: A beautiful, roughly 20-mile winding drive that runs north of Harbor Springs to Cross Village. 

• Driving conditions: The road is narrow and curving with no center line, making it challenging for large vehicles and requiring drivers to proceed with caution. 

• Scenic highlights:

  • The route offers occasional views of Lake Michigan, forested areas and historic homes and buildings.

  • Route highlights include Devil’s Elbow, Horseshoe Bend and multiple nature preserves.

    • Note that, if available, parking at nature preserves is limited to designated areas only.

• Retail/food beverage: There is limited access to food/restaurants along the route.

• Best time to visit: While beautiful year-round, the fall months are particularly popular due to the vibrant leafcolors. Traveling during off-peak days is recommended to avoid congestion, especially on fall weekends.

• Activities: The area is popular for scenic drives and bicycling. 

Things not to do:

• Parking: Do not stop and or park in non-designated areas. 

• Litter: Keep the route beautiful for all to enjoy. Please put trash in proper receptacles. 

• Gas Stations: There are no fuel or electric vehicle charging stations from the start of the Tunnel going north until its termination just before Cross Village. Fuel is available in both Harbor Springs and Cross Village, but not throughout the Tunnel.

• Bathrooms: The Tunnel has very few public restrooms. So, please plan your travel stops accordingly. 

• Large motor homes and coaches: Part of the charm of the Tunnel is its tree-lined narrow roadway with hairpin turns and low hanging tree canopy. Excessively large vehicles may find it challenging to navigate and could potentially be damaging to the tree canopy and vehicles.