Drives Michigan Michigan's Lower Peninsula
Old Mission Peninsula: M-37
M 37, Center Road · Traverse City → Old Mission Point
The drive
M-37 runs up the Old Mission Peninsula, which splits Grand Traverse Bay into east and west arms. Here it follows Center Road up the middle of the peninsula along a ridge, with views of both arms of the bay, and ends in a cul-de-sac at the tip, in front of the Mission Point Light.
The peninsula has what Wikipedia describes as the largest concentration of cherry trees in the U.S., and it is known for vineyards and wineries. It is part of the Old Mission Peninsula American Viticultural Area, and its wineries hold a harvest festival every October. The lighthouse dates to 1870 and stands just south of the 45th parallel.
MDOT has designated the northernmost 18 miles of M-37 on the peninsula as a Pure Michigan Scenic Byway. The drive from Traverse City is 16.5 miles and takes about 20 minutes. It is a dead end, so the way back is the same road.
Along the way
- Traverse City
- Old Mission Point
Good to know
- The road dead-ends at Old Mission Point, so you return on M-37.
- The peninsula's wineries hold a harvest festival every October.
- For current closures, use MiDrive.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check MDOT MiDrive.
Questions about this drive
How long does the Old Mission Peninsula drive take?
M-37 from Traverse City to Old Mission Point is 16.5 miles and takes about 20 minutes each way.
What is at the end of M-37 on Old Mission Peninsula?
M-37 ends in a cul-de-sac at the tip, in front of the Mission Point Light, which dates to 1870.
Is the Old Mission Peninsula drive twisty?
No. It is rated Leisurely, with gentle rises along a ridge and views of both arms of Grand Traverse Bay.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.