The historic and natural environments of the Straits of Mackinac sometimes present impediments to accessibility. Blowing sand, natural trails and steep grades can make traveling difficult. Many 18th and 19th century buildings have entrance steps, narrow doorways and other physical barriers.
Continuous effort is made to make all aspects of Mackinac State Historic Parks accessible. Where possible, physical changes have removed barriers. Alternate programs or services provide additional access opportunities and future projects will continue to improve access.
Museum and Park Services
Below is information on accessibility. The numbers or letters refer to the building’s location on the individual site map. Click for a PDF of the printed Guide to Access.
Outdoor surfaces are gravel, grass, sand, wood chips, and concrete.
Miles of island trails offer a variety of experiences and connect many areas of interest. All trails have at least one length of steep slope. Watch for carriages and horses on paved roads, and bicyclists on bike paths. Walking trails have gravel or wood chip surfaces. For more information, consult the Historic Mackinac Visitor’s Guide or guest service representatives at the downtown Mackinac State Historic Parks’ Visitor’s Center.
Difficult Access
Five to eight entrance steps to these buildings may make access
Moderate Access Locations
Fort Mackinac
Outdoor surfaces are wooden boardwalks and grass.
Getting to Fort Mackinac
Passenger ferries and airplanes take visitors to Mackinac Island. Two private companies operate boats to the island from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. Air-taxi service from Pellston and St. Ignace is also available. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on Mackinac Island; however, personal motorized devices are allowed with permission. Please contact us for more details.
Fort Mackinac’s most accessible entrance is located on the north side of the site and can be reached in several ways. The most immediate route from downtown is to follow Fort Street up the west side of the fort. The road is very steep and may be difficult for some visitors. Other less direct roads also lead to the north entrance.
The ramp leading to the south entrance has 27 steps at the top. This entrance is NOT accessible for visitors using wheelchairs. Horse-drawn carriage tours and taxis leaving from downtown locations will transport visitors to the north side of the fort. A taxi with a lift may be available; contact 906.847.3323 for taxi information.
Access may be limited for some visitors with mobility impairments in these buildings:
Alternate Building Entrances
The following buildings have alternate ramped entrances:
Alternate Entrances
Alternate Programs
Alternate Entrance
Outdoor surfaces are gravel and stone pavers.
Moderate Access
The American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum (C) has a narrow door opening.
Outdoor surfaces are gravel, grass and concrete. Pathways can sometimes become covered with a layer of sand. Restrooms in the park are fully accessible.
Outdoor surfaces are gravel, grass and sand.
Path to the Fort from the Visitor’s Center
Access may be difficult for some visitors with mobility impairments in these buildings:
Alternate Programs and Entrances
Outdoor surfaces are paved side-walks and grassy surfaces.
Access may be difficult for some visitors with mobility impairments in this area:
Natural conditions make access on these trails difficult for visitors with mobility impairments:
Access may be limited for some visitors with mobility impairments in these areas: