Located on Interstate 75 in Michigan, Exit 343 may seem like an exit to nowhere at first glance. However, upon further inspection, one can discover that it offers a breathtaking view of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac. This unique feature makes the exit a true representation of everything that makes Michigan great.
As you head southbound in the Upper Peninsula, the final exit before the bridge that connects St. Ignace to Mackinaw City is called Bridge View.
As you approach the Bridge View exit, the landscape of the Upper Peninsula lends itself to a dramatic reveal of the Mackinac Bridge. Unlike the anticipation of seeing the bridge for miles on I-75 northbound, the 1/4 mile ahead sign for the exit appears just before a curve in the road which gives way to an awe-inspiring first glimpse of the Mighty Mac – only a few hundred feet away.
As highlighted by a Redditor, the contrasting emotions towards the bridge perfectly encapsulate the vast disparity between the two peninsulas.
I always love seen those rock formations when you exit the bridge going north. It’s instantly recognizable. It feels like you’ve just entered a whole new land. Even though you only traveled a few miles from the LP.
Although it may seem like the Bridge View exit leads to nowhere, it actually provides access to Boulevard Drive, which takes you back to US 2. Additionally, this exit also leads to the Father Marquette National Monument. However, the true gem of this exit is Bridge View Park, a charming piece of land located just west of the bridge’s foot and toll plazas. This delightful park is lovingly maintained by the Mackinac Bridge Authority.
If you’re exploring the Straits of Mackinac, stopping by the exit is definitely worth your time.