Once a year on Labor Day, the Mackinac Bridge opens to tens of thousands of people to traverse it by foot. You can experience the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere in an entirely different way than by car. The bridge, which opened in 1957 and connects Michigan’s two peninsulas, sits as high as 199 feet above the blue waters of Straits of Mackinac.
This article is from A Healthier Michigan, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
The Mackinac Bridge Walk started in 1958 with 68 people. Now, as many as 60,000 people flock to Mackinaw City and St. Ignace to walk or run the bridge as the sun rises over Mackinac and Round islands. By tradition, the Michigan governor kicks off the walk at 7 a.m.
The annual Mackinac Bridge Walk and Run are essential Michigan bucket list items, especially if you love heights and the Great Lakes. Learn more about the events, where to park and how to participate.
2025 Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk
Location: South end of the bridge in Mackinaw City and Bridge View Park in St. Ignace
Time and date: 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1
Bridge closure to traffic: 6:30 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free with no registration required
Website: Mackinac Bridge Authority
There are three options to cross the bridge:
- One-way crossing from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. You have to arrange your own transportation back across the bridge once it reopens.
- Double crossing: Walk from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City and turn around to walk back. This is a 10-mile trip. You must reach the midpoint by 10 a.m.
- Halfway turnaround: Start from either end of the bridge and turn around at the midway point by 10 a.m.
Keep reading for details about the Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Run.
https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/stories/community/michigan-bucket-list-the-mackinac-bridge-walk
