Discover US-23, Michigan's Heritage motorcycle route

The gateway to the US-23 Heritage Route is in Standish, where you'll find the MI Central R.R. Depot, built in 1889. Today, it acts as the Byway Welcome Center.

You'll hit Omer shortly after starting your journey, approximately seven miles away. Wigwam Bay is here, a 3,023-acre state wildlife area. Continue to Au Gres, another eight miles away, to discover a great picnic spot, complete with a sandy beach and lighthouse.

As you continue on your journey, you'll cruise through five more counties before reaching Mackinaw City—one of the most popular spots to see in the state.

Some of the other cities you'll ride through include:

• Tawas City

• Au Sable

• Oscoda

• Harrisville

• Alpena

• Rogers City

• Cheboygan

There are many possible stops along Michigan's Heritage motorcycle route. Plan your route ahead of time to ensure you see and do everything you'd like—and to make reservations. Here are 23 spots to inspire you.

Check out our US-23 Heritage Route map to guide your journey.

Michigan is known for its cold, snowy winters. So, you won't likely be riding your motorcycle from November to March. However, every year is different. Some winters are worse and longer than others and sometimes you have great riding weather in February.

If you head out during this period, ensure you and your bike are prepared for winter riding and the roads are clear.

Since most motorcyclists ride this route from April to October, here are the average monthly temperatures in Alpena, MI—around the halfway point:

There is no denying the natural beauty and unique riding experiences along US-23. However, keep these safety considerations in mind when riding Michigan's Heritage motorcycle route.

According to the National Transportation Highway Administration, US-23 is Michigan's fifth most dangerous road. Many of the fatalities are linked to distracted and drunk driving.

Other concerns along this route include weather and wildlife. In the spring, Michigan can experience heavy rainfall, which is a road trip safety hazard. Prepare for rain so you can ride with confidence.

Several wildlife areas and sanctuaries are also along or close to this route. Remain focused to ensure you can react to any animals on the road—including porcupines, turtles, deer, moose, and many more medium-to-large species.

Learn more about motorcycle safety with these resources:

• 5 tips for defensive motorcycle riding

• 4 tips to increase your motorcycle's visibility

Your 200-mile journey will pass through several counties. If you plan on breaking your trip up over several days, there are plenty of places to stay, eat, and shop.

Here are some suggestions of what you can discover, depending on your interests.

Around every corner, you’ll see some truly awesome sights. If you want to park your bike and hike, you’ll love these accessible trails. Be sure to check out the following:

• Rifle River

• Sacred Rock

• Huron Sunrise Trail

• Rockport State Recreation Area (a dark sky preserve)

• Island Park - Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary

• Negwegon State Park

Along this route, there are over 45 suggested historical stops, including:

• Charity Island Lighthouse

• Five Channels Dam

• Alcona County Quilt Trail

• Old Town Alpena

• Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

• Ocqueoc Falls

• Mackinac Island

Discover more using this historic map.

Review the following brochures and featured attractions based on the county to better prepare.

• Au Gres—Omer—Standish

• Rogers City—Presque Isle

• Alpena

• Harrisville Area

• Oscoda—Au Sable—Tawas

• Mackinaw—Cheboygan

Whether you're a Michigan local or are coming from out of state, you need the right motorcycle insurance while riding Michigan's Heritage motorcycle route. We've been helping motorcyclists stay covered—and legal—since 1966.

Take advantage of our:

• Quality, customized motorcycle insurance coverages

• Insurance discounts

• Industry-leading customer service