Lake Michigan's Largest Island Is An Underrated Destination For A Laidback Fall Getaway

As the summer crowds fade and the crisp fall air settles in, there's no better time to explore Beaver Island, Lake Michigan's largest island and one of its most underrated destinations. Located some 35 miles northwest of Charlevoix, Michigan's top resort city for a budget-friendly romantic getaway, Beaver Island offers a peaceful and laid-back retreat, making it an ideal spot for a fall getaway. With its natural beauty, rich history, and wide variety of outdoor activities, this island is a hidden gem that you shouldn't overlook this autumn season.

Beaver Island is not the easiest place to reach — as you might imagine, because it's a remote island — which only adds to its off-the-beaten-path allure. Accessible primarily by ferry from Charlevoix or via a small plane (the flight takes only 15 minutes!), the journey will prime you for the peaceful retreat ahead. You can bring your own vehicle (car or bicycle) on the ferry or rent a car on the island. Dogs and other pets are permitted, too, but check with your carrier and accommodation. Once you arrive, you'll quickly realize that this secluded spot is far removed from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. With a population of just over 600 residents spread across 55+ square miles, the island has a real small-town, welcoming vibe.

Fall is the perfect time to visit, as the cooler weather and changing foliage create the most beautiful scenery for your getaway. Make sure to use this fall foliage prediction map to plan your trip for the right time. Whether you're looking to explore its forests, paddle along its shores (the lake is even warm enough to swim in September), or simply relax on a camping chair and take in the beauty of the island and Lake Michigan, Beaver Island has something for everyone. 

Beaver Island is known for its lush forests with maple, birch, oak, and cherry trees. During the fall, the island's forests become a leaf-peeper's paradise. An extensive network of hiking trails around the island offers the perfect opportunity to experience all those autumn colors up close. Trails like the Kuebler Trail, Hidden Valley Trail, and the Saint James Loop will take you through forests, wetlands, and along the pristine beaches of the lake. It's worth mentioning that Beaver Island is part of Obtawaing, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in northern Michigan. For those who enjoy biking, Beaver Island's quiet, scenic roads are ideal for a leisurely ride. One of the most beautiful biking trails takes you to Beaver Island Lighthouse, built in 1858. Once you get to the lighthouse (a 30-mile ride roundtrip), stretch your legs and climb the tower. 

Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Kayaking or canoeing along the Beaver Island Water Trail — a 42-mile paddling trail that goes around the entire island — is a challenging, multi-day adventure you won't forget (you don't have to do the whole route). Fishing is plentiful, either in Lake Michigan itself or in any of the four inland lakes on the island. You'll find perch, pike, largemouth bass, salmon, lake trout, and much more, particularly around Sand Bay and Lake Geneserath. Otherwise, grab a seat by the water, settle in with a good book, and admire the beauty. Make sure to comb the beach for some Petoskey (and Charlevoix) stones; you might get lucky. Just make sure to steer clear of these Lake Michigan beaches while you're in the area.

Beaver Island isn't just about the great outdoors and sporty activities — it's also steeped in some very peculiar American history. The island was once home to a Mormon colony in the mid-1800s, led by a self-proclaimed tyrannical king, James Jesse Strang. Strang's reign over some 5,000 followers, though short-lived (because of an assassination by two ex-Strangites, as they were called), has left a fascinating legacy on the island. Visitors can learn about this unique chapter of the island's history at the Beaver Island Historical Society and its many museums, which have many interesting exhibits about the island's Native American heritage, maritime history, the medicine man Feodor Protar, and the Mormon settlement.

Another quality that makes Beaver Island truly special is its lack of commercialization. You won't find chain restaurants or high-end resorts here. Instead, the island has charming cottages, bed and breakfasts, and small locally-owned inns that provide an intimate, cozy experience. Most importantly, these accommodations are not too expensive; you can sometimes find a room for under $100. Entire homes can be as much as $600 for the week. Plenty of camping options are also available at Saint James Township Campground and Bill Wagner Peaine Township Campground. Dining on the island is equally relaxed; some of the best local spots include The Shamrock (a restaurant that dates back to the 1930s), Circle M, and Wild Strawberry Cafe. As the night rolls in on the island, look up and admire the celestial wonders — Beaver Island is Michigan's first Dark Sky Sanctuary.