M-185 is a unique highway located on Mackinac Island in Michigan. This road is the only state highway in the United States where motor vehicles are banned.
Why Are Cars Banned On This Highway?
Mackinac island♥️
말🐴 & 자전거🚲 천국입니다. ㅎㅎ#방탄소년단진 #JIN #김석진 pic.twitter.com/9vWPnQTXOC— 🌕달빛코래𝓜𝓸𝓸𝓷𝓚𝓸𝓻𝓮🐳 (@moonkore_jin) July 1, 2024
The ban on cars makes M-185 a fascinating anomaly in the network of American roads. It offers a glimpse into a slower, more serene way of life. Mackinac Island has a rich history dating back to the indigenous peoples who originally inhabited the area.
In 1898, a car accident on Mackinac Island led to the formal ban of automobiles, following a horse’s spontaneous fudge. The prohibition protects the sleepy, charming 19th-century experience. This, in turn, brings throngs of tourists over boats each year. This decision has remained in place for over a century, preserving the island’s tranquil atmosphere. M-185 encircles Mackinac Island, running 8.2 miles along the shoreline. The road offers breathtaking views of Lake Huron, the Straits of Mackinac, and the Mackinac Bridge.
Unlike most highways, which are designed to accommodate high-speed vehicular traffic, the M-185 is tailored for bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and pedestrians. Cyclists can rent bikes from numerous rental shops on the island, and the leisurely pace allows for frequent stops to take in the sights and sounds of this unique environment.
Nature Therapy At M-185
View this post on Instagram
The ban on motor vehicles has significant environmental benefits. Mackinac Island has managed to maintain a pristine natural environment, with cleaner air and reduced noise pollution compared to other tourist destinations. The reliance on bicycles and horse-drawn carriages minimizes the island’s carbon footprint and preserves its natural beauty.
The road connects visitors to key attractions such as Fort Mackinac, a well-preserved 18th-century military outpost, and the Grand Hotel, an iconic historic resort known for its imposing architecture and expansive porch. Along the route, visitors can also find Arch Rock, a natural limestone arch that rises 146 feet above the ground, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters.
The road’s unique status not only enhances the visitor experience but also contributes to the preservation of the island’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. So, have you visited this unique highway?