Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton,MI, to Whitmore Lake, MI
Taking a road trip is always a great way to explore a new place and experience new things. If you're looking for a unique adventure, consider taking a drive from Canton, Michigan, to Whitmore Lake. This scenic route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and discover some hidden gems along the way. In this article, we will discuss five unexpected places to stop along this route.
Route and Duration
The drive from Canton, Michigan, to Whitmore Lake is approximately 18 miles long and can take around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The route follows US-23 Northbound, which is a scenic drive through rolling hills and lush greenery. Along the way, there are plenty of small towns, parks, and landmarks that are worth a visit.
Halfway Point: Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor is the halfway point between Canton and Whitmore Lake. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and world-renowned universities, Ann Arbor is a must-visit destination. While there are plenty of things to do in Ann Arbor, our article focuses on the unique places to visit on the way to Whitmore Lake.
1. Brighton State Recreation Area
The Brighton State Recreation Area is a 4,947-acre park located along the Huron River. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and fishing. The park has two lakes, Bishop and Appleton, which are perfect for kayaking or canoeing. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and campsites available for visitors.
Favorite food to eat: Picnic basket with sandwiches, salads, and fruits.
2. Hell, Michigan
The small town of Hell, Michigan, is located on the edge of the Pinckney State Recreation Area. The town has a unique name and even more unique attractions. Visitors can stop by Screams Ice Cream, which serves ice cream in cups made of skulls, or visit the Hell Hole Bar, which features Hell-themed decor. The town also has a post office, and tourists can get their postcards stamped with the famous "Hell" postmark.
Favorite food to eat: Hell-themed ice cream from Screams Ice Cream.
3. Crosswinds Marsh Wetlands Interpretive Preserve
The Crosswinds Marsh Wetlands Interpretive Preserve is a beautiful park located off I-275. The park features over 1,000 acres of wetlands, uplands, and forests, and is an excellent place to explore nature. Visitors can hike, fish, bike, or explore the wetlands via a boardwalk trail. The park also has an interpretive center that offers educational exhibits about the flora and fauna of the wetlands.
Favorite food to eat: Packed lunch with veggies and fruit.
4. Dexter Cider Mill
The Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest continuously operating cider mill in Michigan, and it's a great place to stop for some apple cider and a snack. The mill produces fresh apple cider, donuts, apple crisp, and many other baked goods. Visitors can take a tour of the mill, observe the cider-making process, and purchase fresh produce.
Favorite food to eat: Fresh apple cider and warm apple crisp.
5. Whitmore Lake
Whitmore Lake is a small town located on the shores of a beautiful lake of the same name. The town has a small beach area, a park, and several restaurants and shops. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, or boating on the lake, or simply take a walk along the beach.
Favorite food to eat: Grilled burger from Captain Joe's Grill.
Conclusion
This scenic drive from Canton to Whitmore Lake offers plenty of opportunities to explore some hidden gems in Michigan. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, unique attractions, or delicious food, this route has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to discover the beauty of this part of the state on your next road trip.