How to Get to Mackinac Island From Traverse City [2025 Guide]
To get to Mackinac Island from Traverse City, you’ll need to drive to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and then take a ferry. The drive is approximately 2 hours to either city. From there, several ferry companies offer service to the island.
Planning a trip to the beautiful Mackinac Island 🏝️ from Traverse City, Michigan? You’re in luck — Traverse City is one of the most popular vacation spots in Michigan, and it’s just a few hours away from the island. In this 2025 guide, I’ll walk you through the best ways to get from Traverse City to Mackinac Island, including driving, bus, ferry, and even private flight options.
🚗 Driving From Traverse City to Mackinac Island Ferry Docks
The most common and convenient way to reach Mackinac Island from Traverse City is by driving.
- Distance: ~125–140 miles (depending on route)
- Driving Time: ~2.5 to 3 hours
- Route:
- Take US-31 North from Traverse City along Lake Michigan’s shoreline
- Pass through charming towns like Charlevoix and Petoskey
- Arrive at Mackinaw City or St. Ignace ferry docks
- Parking: Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island 🚫🚗. You’ll park at the ferry dock (average $15–$25/day).
👉 This drive is scenic and relaxing, making it the top choice for most visitors.
🚌 Bus & Shuttle Services
If you don’t want to drive, you can take a bus or shuttle to the ferry docks.
- Indian Trails Bus connects Traverse City to Mackinaw City.
- Duration: ~3–3.5 hours
- Cost: ~$40–$60 per person (2025 estimate)
- Private shuttle services are also available, often from hotels and tour operators.
👉 Best for solo travelers or students who prefer not to rent a car.
⛴️ Ferry to Mackinac Island
No matter how you get to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, you’ll need to take a ferry to Mackinac Island.
- Operators:
- Duration: 16–20 minutes
- Cost (2025): ~$34 round trip adult | ~$24 child round trip
👉 The ferry ride is short but unforgettable, with stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge 🌉.
✈️ Flying to Mackinac Island from Traverse City
For a faster (and more unique) option, you can book a charter flight directly from Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) to Mackinac Island Airport (MCD).
- Flight Duration: ~45 minutes
- Cost: ~$200–$400 per person (charter rates vary)
- Airlines: Small charter companies operate this route seasonally.
👉 This is a luxury option that saves time and gives you amazing aerial views of northern Michigan.
🚴 Cycling Option (For Adventure Lovers)
Some travelers even bike part of the way! 🚴 You can cycle along US Bike Route 35, which passes through northern Michigan and leads toward Mackinaw City.
- Distance: ~125 miles
- Time: 2–3 days with overnight stops
- Perfect for those combining Traverse City + Mackinac Island into a cycling tour.
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Duration | Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Drive + Ferry | 3–3.5 hrs + 20 min ferry | Gas $30–$50 + $34 ferry | Most convenient |
| 🚌 Bus (Indian Trails) + Ferry | 3–3.5 hrs + 20 min ferry | $40–$60 + $34 ferry | Budget travelers |
| ✈️ Charter Flight | ~45 min | $200–$400 | Luxury / time-saving |
| 🚴 Cycling + Ferry | 2–3 days | Varies | Adventure lovers |
🌟 Travel Tips for 2025
- Book ferry tickets online during peak season (June–August).
- Leave early if driving — summer traffic near Petoskey and Mackinaw City can be heavy.
- Stay overnight in Traverse City or Mackinaw City if you want a slower-paced trip.
- Remember: Mackinac Island is car-free — so expect to get around by bike, carriage, or on foot.
❓ FAQs: How to Get to Mackinac Island From Traverse City
Q1. How long does it take to get from Traverse City to Mackinac Island?
About 3 to 4 hours total, including driving (or bus) plus the 20-minute ferry ride.
Q2. What’s the cheapest way to get from Traverse City to Mackinac Island?
Taking the Indian Trails Bus to Mackinaw City and then the ferry (~$70–$90 total round trip).
Q3. Can I drive directly to Mackinac Island from Traverse City?
No. Cars are not allowed on the island — you must take a ferry.
Q4. Is there a direct flight from Traverse City to Mackinac Island?
Yes, via charter flights from Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) to Mackinac Island Airport (MCD).
Q5. What’s the most scenic route from Traverse City to Mackinac Island?
Driving US-31 along the Lake Michigan shoreline through Charlevoix and Petoskey offers the most beautiful views.