Top 5 Hidden Gems on the #MyManistee Fall Color Tour

1. Wee Bee Jammin’

Enjoy browsing jams, honey and trinkets in a rustic setting in lovely Bear Lake. Wee Bee Jammin’ has unique goods, jewelry, pottery, jams, honey and so much more, all made by Michigan artisans. There’s something for everyone. But word to the wise: Don’t pet the cat.

Address: 8925 Norconk Road, Bear Lake, Michigan

2. Sundling Park

Just off Red Apple Road in Filer Township is lovely Sundling Park, a parking and picnic area with trail access to Lake Michigan. You’ll find some pretty beach glass along this stretch of beach – and amazing sunsets.

Directions: Take Red Apple Road in Filer Township west toward Lake Michigan

3. Little Manistee Weir

Take a scenic drive on Stronach Road to the Little Manistee Weir, the state’s only Steelhead egg-take facility, for a unique perspective on the fall season. Not far from the parking area you’ll find a viewing platform overlooking the river, giving you an up close view of the fish swimming up to the weir. Follow the fence line to watch the fish jump as they enter the egg-take facility. It is a great location to view the fall color from the river’s edge, while also being an interesting educational experience for people of all ages.

Location: From U.S. 31, turn east onto Stronach Road and follow to the base of the hill across from Packaging Corporation of America and turn south to continue to Stronach Road around Manistee Lake, Turn east on Old Stronach. Watch for the sign directing you to the Little Manistee Weir entrance.

4. Big Manistee River

​Where do we start with one of the most famous (and longest) rivers in the state? This iconic river has numerous stops that are breathtaking during fall. If you have four-wheel drive, and don’t mind a little mud, we recommend the Slagle Creek Road access off 30 Road to this hidden gem. It is a bit of a bumpy ride to get to (so only go if you have a good 4×4 vehicle) but it’s worth it!

Of course, you can also view the river from Tippy Dam State Recreation Area, Red Bridge Road, High Bridge Road and others – all from wooden platforms that allow you to watch the colors change and fish swim by.

5. Minnehaha Shipwreck off Arcadia

​Enjoy the autumn colors as you make your way to the Lake Michigan beach in Arcadia to view the Minnehaha, which sank offshore in 1893.

In the surf of Lake Michigan at the south end of Camp Arcadia are the remains of the hull of the Minnehaha, one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes. You can see the wreckage from the beach.

Directions: Off M-22 in Arcadia, take Lake Street west.