Manitou Island Day Trip

Annual Manitou Island Day Trip – 2024

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore South Manitou Island with the Leelanau Historical Society! This exclusive day trip offers a rare chance to delve into the island’s rich history, guided by the museum staff and local experts. Enjoy a ride through the Manitou Passage on Lake Michigan aboard the Mishe Mokwa ferry. 

Date: September 9th, 2024 (Rain Date: September 10th, 2024)
Location: South Manitou Island

Registration: https://forms.gle/xhadbNoXKi7Jf8mY9

South Manitou Island: Nestled within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, South Manitou Island is a hidden gem brimming with historical and natural wonders. From historic farmsteads and the iconic South Manitou Island Lighthouse to shipwreck remnants along its shores, the island served as a vital harbor of refuge for ships in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Trip Details:

  • Cost: $85 for LHS Members, $115 for Non LHS Members
  • Cancellation Fee: 50% within 15 days of the trip
  • Amenities: Primitive (flushing toilets, a source of drinking water, picnic tables, trash receptacles)
  • Water: In an effort to reduce waste we will no longer provide bottled water. Bring your own reusable water bottle. A source of drinking water is available near the dock to fill up. 
  • Lunch: Pack your own lunch/sandwich. Beverages (soft drinks), snacks, and sweets will be provided. A cash bar and additional snacks are available for purchase on the ferry.  
  • Dress: Good walking shoes/boots, dress in layers, light jacket, hat, backpack. (bug spray, sunscreen, walking sticks, binoculars, and a watch are also recommended.)

This event is hosted by the Leelanau Historical Society showcasing the unique history of the Manitou Islands.  Amenities on the island are primitive, this includes pit toilets and one source of potable water. Unforeseen circumstances do occur that cause us to alter our plans, we kindly ask for your patience and flexibility if we need to change our agenda while on the island. We promise you will have a unique historical experience.  We will have interesting guides and interpreters volunteering their time who will share their knowledge of South Manitou Island.

Sample Schedule:

  • 8:00am – 8:45am: Check-In at the Dock at Leland Harbor
  • 8:45am: Board the Boat (Mishe-Mokwa)
  • 9:00am: Depart for the Island
  • 10:30am: Arrive on the Island, disembark, and bathroom break
  • 11:00am – Noon: Morning Site Tours
  • Noon – 1:00pm: Lunch break in the village (bring your own lunch)
  • 1:00pm – 3:00pm: Afternoon Site Tours
  • 3:00pm: Board Boat
  • 3:30pm: Depart to circle the North Manitou Shoal Lighthouse, “The Crib” (weather permitting)
  • Return to Leland: No later than 5:30pm (possibly earlier)

Presenters/Tour Options: To Be Announced.
Our presenters are local guides and historians volunteering their time to share their knowledge of South Manitou Island.

Questions: please call Kim or Elizabeth at the Leelanau Historical Society at 231-256-7475.

Seize this unique opportunity to uncover the hidden stories and natural splendor of South Manitou Island. Register early to ensure your place on this captivating journey with the Leelanau Historical Society! Seating is limited.

Register Here

Photo Gallery from Past Trips on North and South Manitou Island.