We drove up to Mackinaw City today. And there is the bridge… 26,372 foot of wonder (almost 5 miles). Tomorrow we cross and enter the Upper Peninsula. They say, “you’re not up north until you cross the Mackinac Bridge”. Tomorrow we cross. For the first time. It is the longest suspension bridge with two towers between anchorage points in the Western Hemisphere. The bridge can sway up to 35 in high winds. Of the two lanes going north, the lane to the right is closest to the edge. With the left lane, you are driving on grating, with the water below. I have heard the right lane is closed. Lucky me. They actually have a free service to drive individuals cars over the bridge if they are afraid… gephyrophobia. I’ll brave it… just hope it isn’t windy.
Today we visited the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association, and took a long early dinner at the only local brewhouse… Biere De Mac Brew Works. One of the few place in this tourist town that is open, the food and on site brewed beer was quite acceptable. Driving around this small city was slightly eerie… all these shops, restaurants, tourist traps closed. And the roads empty.
Our hotel is also nearly vacant. They just opened for the season. And are busy doing maintenance everywhere, including a new roof above our heads. But the price was right, and view from our deck is special.
