How to Get to Mackinac Island From Sault Ste. Marie [2025 Guide]

To reach Mackinac Island from Sault Ste. Marie, the most common route involves a combination of bus and ferry.

If you’re in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan (or even Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario 🇨🇦), you’re closer than most to the magical Mackinac Island 🏝️ — a car-free paradise filled with horse-drawn carriages, fudge shops, and Victorian charm. The good news? Getting from Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island in 2025 is straightforward, and you have multiple options to choose from.

This guide breaks down the best routes by car, bus, and even cycling so you can plan your perfect trip.

🚗 Driving From Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island Ferry Docks

The easiest and fastest option is to drive to Mackinac Island ferry docks at St. Ignace or Mackinaw City.

• Distance: ~52 miles (to St. Ignace) or ~65 miles (to Mackinaw City)
• Driving Time: ~1 hour
• Route:
  • From Sault Ste. Marie, take I-75 South
  • You’ll reach St. Ignace ferry docks first (closer option)
  • If you prefer, continue across the Mackinac Bridge 🌉 to Mackinaw City ferry docks

👉 St. Ignace is the most convenient starting point for travelers from the Soo.

⚠️ Reminder: Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, so you’ll park at the ferry terminal ($15–$25/day average).

🚌 Bus From Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island

Don’t want to drive? The Indian Trails Bus Service connects Sault Ste. Marie to St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.

• Duration: ~1.5 to 2 hours
• Cost (2025): ~$20–$30 one-way
• Connection: From St. Ignace or Mackinaw City, transfer to the ferry.

👉 This is the budget-friendly option, especially for solo travelers.

⛴️ Ferry to Mackinac Island

Once you’re in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City, hop on a ferry to Mackinac Island.

• Ferry Operators:
  • Shepler’s Ferry
  • Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
• Ferry Duration: 16–20 minutes
• Cost (2025): ~$34 adult round trip | ~$24 child round trip

👉 The ferry ride is short and scenic, offering views of Lake Huron and Mackinac Bridge.

✈️ Flying Option

While there isn’t a regular commercial flight between Sault Ste. Marie and Mackinac Island, you can book a private charter flight.

• Departure: From Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) near Sault Ste. Marie
• Arrival: Mackinac Island Airport (MCD)
• Flight Time: ~20 minutes
• Cost: ~$150–$300 per person (charter rates vary)

👉 Perfect for travelers who want a time-saving and unique experience.

🚴 Cycling Adventure

For adventure lovers 🚴, cycling from Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island is a bucket-list ride.

• Distance: ~52 miles to St. Ignace
• Time: One full day or split into two days with an overnight stop
• Route: Take scenic US Bike Route 35, which runs along Lake Huron’s shoreline.

👉 Combine this with biking around Mackinac Island for the ultimate cycling tour.

📊 Travel Options Summary

🌟 Travel Tips for 2025

• St. Ignace is closer than Mackinaw City if you’re coming from Sault Ste. Marie.
• Book ferry tickets online during peak summer (June–August).
• If driving, crossing the Mackinac Bridge to Mackinaw City adds a scenic experience 🌉.
• Remember: Mackinac Island is car-free — bikes, carriages, and walking are the main ways to get around.

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Mackinac Island From Sault Ste. Marie

Q1. How long does it take to get from Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island?
Around 1.5 to 2.5 hours total, depending on whether you drive or take a bus, plus the 20-minute ferry.

Q2. What’s the cheapest way to travel from Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Island?
Taking the Indian Trails Bus to St. Ignace and then the ferry (~$60 round trip).

Q3. Can I drive directly to Mackinac Island from Sault Ste. Marie?
No. Cars are not allowed — you must park at St. Ignace or Mackinaw City and take a ferry.

Q4. Is there a direct flight to Mackinac Island from Sault Ste. Marie?
Not scheduled, but charter flights from Chippewa County International Airport are available.

Q5. Which ferry dock is closer from Sault Ste. Marie?
St. Ignace ferry dock — just about 1 hour away.