The Labor Day Tradition Every Michigander Needs to Do at Least Once

Here it comes again, folks: the granddaddy of Michigan traditions that doesn't involve tailgating, fudge, or Faygo. We're talking about the 2025 Mackinac Bridge Walk, and if it's not on your bucket list, go ahead and turn in your Michigander card now.

RELATED: PHOTOS: The Making of Michigan's Mackinac Bridge, 1955 to 1957

What Is the Mackinac Bridge Walk?

Mark your calendar for Labor Day, Monday, September 1, 2025. For just one glorious morning, the Mighty Mac—America's longest suspension bridge east of the Mississippi and Michigan's architectural flex—is closed to vehicle traffic so you can hoof it across five miles of pure Michigan steel.

Walk Options: One-Way, Round-Trip & Repeat

According to a press release from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) is once again letting you start from either end: Bridge View Park in St. Ignace (north) or the Jamet Street ramp in Mackinaw City (south). No buses, no excuses—this is a walk-it-yourself operation. Choose your own adventure:

• Walk halfway, turn around, and return like a sensible person
• Walk the full span and arrange your own ride back
• Walk it, turn around, and do it again. Because cardio.

Just make sure you are past the midpoint by 10 a.m. or you're walking back the hard way...later. But you might have company, because over 30,000 people took part in the 2024 event.

Closing Times & Traffic Tips

The bridge closes to traffic from 6:30 a.m. to noon. If you're planning to drive in either direction, arrive before noon, as there will be a lineup at that time. Other than that, for a few magical hours, the only thing clogging the Mac is proud Michiganders donning practical footwear for a five-mile walk.

RELATED: Michigan's 'Mackinac': WHY It's 'Naw' And NEVER 'Nac'

So if you've never done it—do it. And if you have? Why not do it again? It's not just a walk. It's a rite of passage that pays off with views of Michigan that will have you hearing Tim Allen voicing your personal Pure Michigan moment.