The Mackinac Bridge

 

The Mackinac Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the Straits of Mackinac, connecting the Lower Peninsula of Michigan to the Upper Peninsula. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Michigan and one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, with a total length of 26,372 feet (5 miles). The bridge is a critical transportation link, serving as part of Interstate 75 (I-75), and is often referred to as "Big Mac."

The Mackinac Bridge was completed in 1957 and has become a symbol of Michigan's geography and history. The bridge features two main towers that rise 552 feet above the water, supporting cables that span a distance of 3,800 feet between the towers. The total length of the bridge, including its approach spans, is about 26,000 feet.

The bridge connects the city of St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula to Mackinaw City in the Lower Peninsula. The Mackinac Bridge Authority manages the bridge, which also has a toll for vehicles crossing from the Lower Peninsula to the Upper Peninsula (though it is free to travel in the opposite direction).

Notable for its stunning views and engineering, the Mackinac Bridge is a vital transportation route, especially for tourists heading to Michigan's Upper Peninsula, as well as for local residents and industries. It's also famous for its annual Mackinac Bridge Walk, where thousands of people cross the bridge on foot, typically on Labor Day.