Headlands International Dark Sky Park Mackinaw City
A pristine International Dark Sky Park on Lake Michigan, offering unparalleled stargazing and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies for stargazing
Headlands International Dark Sky Park Mackinaw City
Best Time
Clear skies for stargazing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine International Dark Sky Park on Lake Michigan, offering unparalleled stargazing and natural beauty.
"This place is AMAZING. If you go when it's dark, bring red light (no white light allowed)."
Red Light Only! 🔦
White lights are forbidden. Use red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
Dress Warmly! 🧣
It's often 10°F cooler by the lake. Bring layers and blankets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Milky Way
Designated viewing areas
Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Milky Way stretching across the unpolluted night sky. A truly awe-inspiring celestial display.
Northern Lights
Lake Michigan shoreline
During peak seasons, the aurora borealis dances in vibrant colors above the dark horizon. A magical experience for any visitor.
Lake Michigan Beach
2+ miles of undeveloped shoreline
Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Michigan's undeveloped beach, perfect for daytime exploration and sunset views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Darkness
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Red Light Only! 🔦
White lights are forbidden. Use red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
Dress Warmly! 🧣
It's often 10°F cooler by the lake. Bring layers and blankets.
Bug Spray is Key! 🦟
Especially during warmer months, protect yourself from insects.
Turn Down Phone Brightness! 📱
Dim your screen to help your eyes adjust to the dark.
Tips
from all over the internet
Red Light Only! 🔦
White lights are forbidden. Use red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
Dress Warmly! 🧣
It's often 10°F cooler by the lake. Bring layers and blankets.
Bug Spray is Key! 🦟
Especially during warmer months, protect yourself from insects.
Turn Down Phone Brightness! 📱
Dim your screen to help your eyes adjust to the dark.
Explore During the Day! ☀️
The park is beautiful for walks and wildlife viewing even before sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Headlands International Dark Sky Park, praising its stunning night skies and beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. Many highlight the magical experience of seeing the Milky Way and Northern Lights. While the park's commitment to darkness is appreciated, some note the need for preparedness regarding cooler temperatures and insects.
"A must see! It's beautiful during the day and it's not just for star gazing!
From the website:
The grounds, trails, and viewing areas at the Headlands are open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Visitors are welcome to stay out through the night for dark-sky viewing opportunities, but camping is not permitted. The Headlands is not intended as an overnight sleeping destination but instead is designated as a place to stay awake and view the stars. You may bring blankets, chairs, food, beverages, etc. When packing, keep in mind that temperatures are typically 10 degrees lower than expected due to our proximity to the lake shore.
As a courtesy to others, we do not permit white lights (flashlights or cell phones) in the designated viewing area. Red-filtered flashlights are permitted and are sold on-site. Well-mannered pets are permitted on a six-foot leash. View the Dark Sky Etiquette Guidelines before you visit."
Suzy
"This place is AMAZING. If you go when it's dark, bring red light (no white light allowed). The gift shop is open 24/7 and very informative. Maybe bring a blanket/sheet. Some bug spray. Turn the brightenness down on your phone and turn off adaptive brightness and screen light to for facial recognition. Your eyeballs will thank you later as you acclimate them to the darkness, more and more stars become visible to your makes eye. Bright screens reset that process."
Gerid Adams (Wired4Sound)
"What an awesome spot for all of your dark sky watching! From rock picking during the day to catching northern lights with like minded people is great. When you make your way out of the park and make it to the road, go straight thru the stop sign instead of turning right. It's a gorgeous view of the bridge!"
Chris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Headlands International Dark Sky Park is located on the Headlands Road in Mackinaw City, MI. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors combine a trip here with Mackinac Island.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available, with a short walk to the viewing areas and beach.
Absolutely! The grounds, trails, and viewing areas are open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It's beautiful for wildlife viewing and beach walks.
Yes, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry into Michigan State Parks, including Headlands.
The park features winding sidewalks and accessible viewing areas, making it enjoyable for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the park itself, but a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry.
The park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, allowing for continuous dark-sky viewing opportunities.
Camping is not permitted at Headlands. It's designated as a place to stay awake and view the stars, not for overnight sleeping.
Well-mannered pets are permitted on a six-foot leash, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions.
Red-filtered flashlights are permitted and can be purchased on-site at the gift shop, which is open 24/7.
🎫 ⭐ Stargazing & Night Sky
Headlands is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning it has exceptionally clear skies with minimal light pollution, ideal for astronomical observation.
The main rule is to avoid white lights in viewing areas. Dim your phone screens and use red lights to preserve everyone's night vision.
Yes, Headlands is a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights, especially during the fall and winter months.
Even with clouds, the proximity to Lake Michigan and the serene environment offer a beautiful experience. The universe is still framed by the landscape.
While astrophotography is encouraged, be mindful of light discipline. Avoid using bright camera flashes or lights that disrupt others' viewing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the park itself. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged! You can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy a meal with a view.
The park's gift shop is open 24/7 and offers a selection of items, potentially including snacks and drinks.
Mackinaw City offers various restaurants and eateries, from casual diners to more formal dining experiences, a short drive from the park.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's best to check local regulations. The focus is on enjoying the natural beauty and dark skies.
📸 📸 Photography
The designated viewing areas and the open lawns behind the Event Center are excellent for setting up telescopes and cameras.
Wide-angle lenses with a fast aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or wider) and a sturdy tripod are essential for capturing the night sky.
Turn off adaptive brightness, lower screen brightness to the minimum, and use red light filters if possible to maintain your night vision and avoid affecting others.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on local event listings or park announcements for potential photography-focused events.
The darkest hours after sunset are ideal for astrophotography. Sunset and sunrise also offer beautiful lighting for landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At night, the wonder of the stars can captivate young minds. While white lights are prohibited, the gift shop sells red flashlights, which can be a fun accessory for kids. Encourage them to look for constellations and share stories about the night sky. Remember to pack extra layers and bug spray for comfort.
🌌 Astrophotography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the dark sky etiquette, especially when setting up your gear. Avoid using bright lights that could interfere with other photographers or stargazers. The park's natural framing of trees and the lake offers unique compositions for your shots.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Wildlife Spotters
The trails are well-maintained, and the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing stroll. The proximity to the lake means you'll often experience refreshing breezes, making daytime visits particularly pleasant.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Dark Sky Parks
When you visit, you'll notice the absence of harsh artificial lights. This allows for the incredible visibility of celestial objects, from distant galaxies to meteor showers. The park's location on the Keweenaw Peninsula, far from major urban centers, significantly contributes to its dark skies.
Key takeaway: The primary goal is to preserve the natural darkness. This commitment is what makes Headlands a truly special destination for anyone looking to connect with the cosmos. Remember to respect the dark sky etiquette to ensure the experience for everyone.
Daytime Delights at Headlands
The park's description highlights the presence of bears, deer, and eagles, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers even before dusk. The winding sidewalks and manicured lawns provide scenic spots for relaxation or a picnic.
Pro-tip: Consider visiting near sunset to experience the transition from daylight beauty to the emerging night sky. The views of the lake and the surrounding landscape are stunning at any time of day.
Navigating Nighttime Etiquette
Visitors are encouraged to bring red-filtered flashlights, which are sold on-site at the 24/7 gift shop. If you must use your phone, dim the screen to its lowest setting and turn off adaptive brightness. This helps your eyes adjust to the darkness more effectively, allowing you to see more stars.
Remember: The goal is to minimize any light that could disrupt the natural darkness. By following these simple guidelines, you contribute to a magical and shared experience under the stars.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit