Top 12 'Shipwreck-and-Shoreline' Great Lakes Routes to drive for an unforgettable freshwater odyssey in 2025 - Goh Ling Yong
Forget the salt-crusted coasts and predictable beach routes. For a truly epic road trip, one that combines haunting history with jaw-dropping natural beauty, look no further than North America's inland seas: the Great Lakes. These vast bodies of freshwater hold more than just stunning vistas; their depths guard the secrets of thousands of shipwrecks, silent monuments to the region's raw power and rich maritime heritage.
This isn't your average Sunday drive. This is a freshwater odyssey. It's about feeling the pulse of history through your steering wheel, tracing shorelines carved by glaciers, and standing on the very cliffs where sailors once looked for safe harbor. From the sheer, rugged power of Lake Superior to the vineyard-lined shores of Lake Ontario, each route offers a unique chapter in a sprawling, epic story.
So, buckle up for 2025. We've curated the ultimate list of 12 "Shipwreck-and-Shoreline" routes that will redefine what you think a coastal drive can be. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone searching for an unforgettable journey, your next great adventure starts here.
1. The Shipwreck Coast: Michigan's M-123 & Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway
This is the quintessential Great Lakes shipwreck drive. Following the southeastern shore of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this route takes you directly into the heart of the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes." The drive itself is a mix of dense forests that suddenly open up to sweeping, panoramic views of the world's largest freshwater lake. The air here feels different—ancient, wild, and filled with stories.
You’ll travel from St. Ignace up to Paradise, a town whose name is no exaggeration. The centerpiece is Whitefish Point, the terminus of the byway and a critical turning point for all ships entering or leaving Lake Superior. So many vessels met their end in this treacherous stretch of water, including the most famous of all, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank just 17 miles from here. The raw, wind-whipped shoreline serves as a constant, humbling reminder of the lake's power.
- Don't Miss: The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point is an absolute must. You can see the recovered bell of the Edmund Fitzgerald and walk along the beach where debris from countless wrecks has washed ashore.
- Pro Tip: Detour slightly to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, where the massive, amber-colored waterfalls (stained by tannins from cedar swamps) are a spectacle in their own right.
2. Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive: Highway 61
Immortalized in a Bob Dylan album, Highway 61 along Lake Superior's northern coast is arguably one of the most famous scenic drives in the United States. This is a drive of dramatic contrasts: rugged, saw-toothed cliffs plunging into the deep, cobalt-blue water on one side, and the dense, rolling hills of the Sawtooth Mountains on the other. Every curve reveals a new vista more stunning than the last.
While the scenery is the star, the maritime history is ever-present. The route is dotted with iconic lighthouses that stood as beacons against the lake's legendary storms. You'll pass through charming harbor towns like Grand Marais and Two Harbors, where the legacy of iron ore shipping is still visible. It’s a route that feels both untamed and deeply rooted in industrial American history.
- Don't Miss: Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The lighthouse, perched atop a 130-foot cliff, is one of the most photographed landmarks in Minnesota. The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a lightkeeper.
- Pro Tip: Stop at Gooseberry Falls State Park for a quick and rewarding hike to see its beautiful series of waterfalls. For a somber moment of reflection, visit the Glensheen Mansion in Duluth, connected to the story of the wreck of the SS Congdon.
3. The Door Peninsula: Wisconsin's "Cape Cod of the Midwest"
Jutting out into Lake Michigan, the Door Peninsula is a geological marvel, creating a treacherous passage known as Porte des Morts or "Death's Door." This strait, littered with shipwrecks, gives the county its name and sets the stage for a drive rich in maritime lore and stunning coastal beauty. The route follows Highway 42 up the Green Bay side and Highway 57 down the Lake Michigan side, forming a perfect loop.
The western shore is known for its calm waters and picturesque harbor towns like Fish Creek and Ephraim, while the eastern shore is wilder, with caves and rocky beaches. The entire peninsula is dotted with lighthouses, vineyards, and cherry orchards. Driving here feels less like the Midwest and more like a hidden coastal escape, with each town offering a unique slice of maritime culture.
- Don't Miss: Cana Island Lighthouse. You’ll have to cross a stone causeway (sometimes by tractor-pulled hay wagon if water levels are high) to reach it, but the climb to the top offers an unparalleled 360-degree view of Lake Michigan.
- Pro Tip: Take a ferry from Northport to Washington Island to truly feel like you've escaped. The island has its own unique culture and even more remote, beautiful shorelines to explore.
4. Thunder Bay's "Shipwreck Alley": Michigan's US-23 Heritage Route
If you want to get up close and personal with shipwrecks, this is your route. The stretch of Lake Huron along Michigan's "Sunrise Coast" is home to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a protected 4,300-square-mile area preserving one of America's most significant collections of shipwrecks. The drive along US-23 is a journey through quaint lakeside towns and serene, sandy beaches.
The heart of the trip is Alpena, the sanctuary's headquarters. Here, you can learn about the "Shipwreck Alley" and the nearly 100 historic wrecks that lie beneath the waves, some in surprisingly shallow water. This route offers the unique opportunity to not just drive past shipwreck history but to actually see it, either through a glass-bottom boat tour or by diving or snorkeling in the clear, cold water.
- Don't Miss: A tour on the Lady Michigan glass-bottom boat out of Alpena. You'll float directly over perfectly preserved 19th-century schooners, an experience that is both eerie and unforgettable.
- Pro Tip: Visit the Old and New Presque Isle Lighthouses. You can climb both for incredible views, and the new lighthouse (built in 1870) is one of the tallest on the Great Lakes.
5. Ontario's Georgian Bay Coastal Route
This legendary loop takes you through a landscape so dramatic it inspired Canada's famous Group of Seven painters. Circling the massive Georgian Bay of Lake Huron, the route showcases the rugged, windswept pines and glacier-scoured granite of the Canadian Shield. The drive is a journey from the rolling hills of the south to the wild, rocky north.
The undisputed highlight is the Bruce Peninsula, home to Fathom Five National Marine Park, Canada's first national marine conservation area. The water here is astonishingly clear, revealing a treasure trove of 19th-century shipwrecks resting on the lakebed. The town of Tobermory is the hub for this aquatic museum, offering boat tours, diving excursions, and access to the stunning Niagara Escarpment landscapes.
- Don't Miss: A boat cruise in Tobermory to see the schooners in "The Tubs" and the famous Flowerpot Island. The combination of turquoise water, ancient sea stacks, and visible shipwrecks is world-class.
- Pro Tip: Book your boat tours and accommodations in Tobermory well in advance, especially for a summer trip. This is one of Ontario's most popular destinations for a reason.
6. The Legendary M-22: Sleeping Bear Dunes & The Manitou Passage
Often cited as one of the most beautiful drives in America, Michigan's M-22 is more than just a road; it's a destination in itself. This 116-mile route wraps around the Leelanau Peninsula, offering a perfect blend of charming towns, rolling vineyards, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The shoreline here is dominated by massive sand dunes that tower over the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan. The drive takes you through the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, offering breathtaking overlooks like the one at the Lake Michigan Overlook, 450 feet above the water. This area is also part of the Manitou Passage, a historically busy (and dangerous) shipping lane where numerous shipwrecks now rest, some of which are visible from the shore on clear days. Here at Goh Ling Yong's blog, we believe this is a drive that perfectly balances raw nature with refined charm.
- Don't Miss: The Dune Climb at Sleeping Bear. It’s a strenuous workout, but the view from the top and the thrill of running back down is a pure, joyful experience.
- Pro Tip: Pack a picnic from one of the fantastic delis in Leland or Suttons Bay and enjoy it at a scenic turnout. The combination of local food and world-class views is unbeatable.
7. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail: New York's Lake Ontario Shore
Stretching along the southern coast of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, the Seaway Trail is a designated National Scenic Byway rich in American history. This drive is less about dramatic cliffs and more about rolling farmland, historic port towns, and a palpable sense of history dating back to the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
You'll encounter a string of beautiful lighthouses, including the black-and-white-striped Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse. The route takes you through Sodus Bay, a popular boating hub, and ends near the historic Fort Niagara, which has stood guard over the mouth of the Niagara River for centuries. The shipwrecks here are often older and tell stories not just of commerce, but of conflict.
- Don't Miss: The Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum. It’s a beautiful stone lighthouse from 1870 with fantastic exhibits and a commanding view of the lake.
- Pro Tip: The region is part of the Niagara Wine Trail. Plan to stop at a few wineries along the way to sample the local Rieslings and ice wines.
8. Ontario's Superior Coast: The Trans-Canada Highway 17
For those who crave a truly wild and remote driving experience, the stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay is an absolute epic. This is Lake Superior at its most formidable and majestic. The road clings to the coastline, carved out of the ancient rock of the Canadian Shield, offering nonstop, jaw-dropping views of the vast, empty lake.
This route is about solitude and raw nature. You’ll pass through Lake Superior Provincial Park and Pukaskwa National Park, where you can hike to secluded coves and pictograph sites. The shipwrecks here are fewer and farther between, but the stories are legendary, speaking to the incredible danger of navigating this isolated coast. Towns like Wawa, with its famous goose monument, are welcome pockets of civilization in the immense wilderness.
- Don't Miss: The Agawa Rock Pictographs in Lake Superior Provincial Park. Accessible via a short but challenging trail, these ancient red ochre paintings are a sacred link to the region's Indigenous history.
- Pro Tip: Fuel and food stops are infrequent. Plan accordingly and always top up your tank when you have the chance. Cell service is spotty at best, making this a true digital detox drive.
9. Ohio's Lake Erie Coastal Trail
Lake Erie may be the shallowest of the Great Lakes, but its history runs deep. The Ohio Lake Erie Coastal Trail is a 293-mile route that showcases the lake's surprising beauty and pivotal role in American history, particularly the War of 1812. The drive is a mix of bustling port cities, resort towns, and important natural habitats.
The route is famous for its lighthouses, especially the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. A key part of the experience is island-hopping via ferry to Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay, where you can visit Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, commemorating the pivotal Battle of Lake Erie. The wrecks in this lake often relate to this naval history, adding a unique dimension to the shipwreck theme.
- Don't Miss: A ferry trip to Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. Rent a golf cart to explore the island and be sure to ascend the monument for a panoramic view of the Lake Erie islands.
- Pro Tip: The area is a major bird migration route. If you're visiting in the spring, a stop at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is a must for world-class birdwatching.
10. Tunnel of Trees & The Straits of Mackinac: Michigan's M-119
While short, the M-119, better known as the "Tunnel of Trees," is one of the most unique driving experiences in the country. This narrow, winding road hugs the bluffs of Lake Michigan, with a dense canopy of trees forming a natural tunnel overhead. The drive is intimate and enchanting, with glimpses of the shimmering lake appearing through the leaves.
This route connects the posh resort town of Harbor Springs to the quirky, artsy town of Cross Village. It’s part of a larger loop that can include Mackinaw City, gateway to the Straits of Mackinac where Lakes Michigan and Huron meet. This historic strait is home to numerous shipwrecks, now explorable in the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve. It’s the kind of drive that reminds me why I, Goh Ling Yong, fell in love with the simple pleasure of a car, a road, and a beautiful view.
- Don't Miss: Legs Inn in Cross Village. This landmark restaurant is a work of art, built from local stone and driftwood, and offers delicious Polish-American food with a stunning lake view.
- Pro Tip: Drive this route from north to south. This puts you on the lane closest to the lake, offering slightly better views and easier access to the few pull-offs.
11. Prince Edward County: Ontario's Loyalist Parkway
For a more serene and sophisticated take on the shoreline drive, head to Prince Edward County in Ontario. The Loyalist Parkway (Highway 33) meanders through this island-like peninsula on Lake Ontario, known for its pastoral landscapes, burgeoning wine scene, and massive freshwater sand dunes.
The drive is a journey back in time, past United Empire Loyalist heritage homes and through charming towns like Picton and Bloomfield. The shoreline here is defined by the incredible dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park, which boasts some of the best beaches on the Great Lakes. The maritime history is centered in nearby Kingston, the "Limestone City," which was once a major shipbuilding hub and is the gateway to the wrecks of the St. Lawrence River.
- Don't Miss: Sandbanks Provincial Park. Walking on the vast, golden dunes of Outlet Beach feels like being transported to a seaside desert.
- Pro Tip: "The County" is a foodie paradise. Plan your drive around stops at wineries, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
12. Ontario's Forgotten South Coast: Highway 3
Often overlooked in favor of the more dramatic northern lakes, Lake Erie's Canadian shore offers a subtle and charming road trip experience. Following Highway 3, the old Talbot Trail, you'll discover a laid-back region of fishing villages, Carolinian forests, and long, sandy points that jut defiantly into the lake.
The drive takes you to Point Pelee National Park, the southernmost point of mainland Canada, and a critical stop for migrating birds and monarch butterflies. Further east, you’ll find Long Point, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve with a notoriously treacherous shoal that has claimed countless ships over the centuries, earning it the name "The Graveyard of Lake Erie." This route is about discovering hidden gems and enjoying a slower pace of travel.
- Don't Miss: Exploring the towns of Port Stanley and Port Dover. Both offer a classic beach town vibe with marinas, piers, and excellent local perch and pickerel dinners.
- Pro Tip: If visiting on a Friday the 13th, be prepared for a spectacle in Port Dover, which hosts a massive, long-running motorcycle rally that attracts thousands of riders.
Your Freshwater Odyssey Awaits
The Great Lakes are more than just a destination; they are an experience. They are a living museum, a natural wonderland, and a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration. Each of these 12 routes offers a different way to connect with the soul of this incredible region, blending the thrill of the drive with the deep, resonant stories lying just beneath the waves.
So, pick a route, check your tire pressure, and get ready to trade the hum of the highway for the sound of waves on a freshwater shore. The road is waiting.
Which route are you packing your bags for first? Share your favorite Great Lakes drive or a hidden gem in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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