Michigan comprises two peninsulas. These are divided by Lake Michigan, and linked by one of the world’s longest suspension bridges across the Straits of Mackinac. Lakes Superior, Huron and Erie also form the State’s shorelines. The Lower Peninsula, mainly agricultural and industrial, contains inland lakes, meadows and sandy beaches, as well as the ‘Motor City’ of Detroit. The Upper Peninsula is more rugged, and boasts forests, white beaches, trout streams and winter ski resorts.

Michigan is located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States touching four of the five Great Lakes - Superior, Huron, Erie and Michigan. With 3,288 miles of shoreline, Alaska is the only state with more shoreline. Michigan is comprised of two major landmasses, the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula connected by the 5-mile Mackinac Bridge. It is the only state in the nation with such large sections separated by water. In the Upper Peninsula, Mount Curwood flaunts the highest elevation at 1,980 feet above sea level. The lowest elevation, 572 feet, is found in Southeast Michigan along the banks of Lake Erie. Michigan is best known for automobile manufacturing in Detroit, its largest city.

Michigan is well known for water-oriented sports. It boasts over 3,000 acres of shoreline and 11,000 inland lakes. Many national forests in northern Michigan support canoeing, camping, hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Winter sports occupy the time of residents and visitors. Many facilities throughout the state provide cross-country ski trails, downhill skiing facilities and snowshoeing routes.