The Arch Rock

October 21, 2025 -- The Arch Rock is one of the most famous rock formations on Mackinac Island. It towers above the water (145 feet) and is more than 50 feet wide. It is believed to be about 4000 years old, having been hollowed out by splashing waves when water levels were much higher.  

Major tourist destination on Mackinac Island

Picturesque limestone formation

A stairway to Heaven?

Native Americans viewed Arch Rock as a bridge to the afterlife or as a bridge for spirits to descend upon earth. The earliest written accounts of Arch Rock (by Europeans) came in the early 1800s. It is forbidden to climb on Arch Rock.

c. 4000 years ago

Shores of Lake Huron

From Fort Mackinac, it was a half mile hike to the top of Arch Rock. It was an easy hike through a botanical area. It ended at the same place the carriage tour had brought us earlier than the day. I had already viewed Arch Rock from the platforms. I wanted to descend the steps and see Arch Rock from the base (along the shore). It was 206 steps to the bottom.  Tiresome, but worth it for a different vantage point.