Discover Michigan’s M-185: America’s Only Car-Free Road
Only in Michigan could a state be the birthplace of the auto industry and home to the Motor City—while also being home to the only highway in America that doesn't allow gas-powered vehicles on it.
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M-185: America’s Only Car-Free Highway on Mackinac Island
Meet M-185, an eight-mile loop around Michigan's Mackinac Island, where the only traffic jams involve bikes, pedestrians, and the occasional horse that refuses to move.
According to Michigan Highways, back in 1896, Mackinac Island decided that "horseless carriages" weren't welcome. Locals found them to be too noisy, smelly, and terrifying to horses. In 1898, a car backfired and scared a horse—by 1901, the ban was official. Aside from emergency vehicles, the occasional Hollywood film, or a visiting President, it has held strong ever since.
Visit M-185: Where Bikes, Horses—and No Cars—Rule the Road
Instead of exhaust fumes, you'll get stunning views of Lake Huron, historic cottages, and a lot of sweaty tourists regretting that second hunk of fudge as they pedal uphill. The road is so narrow (only 12 feet wide in spots) that you couldn't wedge an F-150 on it if you tried.
No Cars Allowed: Michigan’s Unique M-185 Highway
Here's the kicker: while Detroit was rolling out the Model T, Mackinac Island collectively said, "Cute invention, keep it off our island." Michigan gave the world cars—and also a highway that banned them. That's balance.
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So next time you're craving a Michigan road trip without brake lights or potholes, M-185 is your spot—just don't expect valet parking.
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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow