Driving
Ship
Mackinac Island to Sault Ste. Marie
Updated: 29 May 2026
To reach Sault Ste. Marie from Mackinac Island, take the ferry to St. Ignace and then drive north on I-75. This route takes you through the beautiful northern Michigan landscape. You will arrive in Sault Ste. Marie after approximately 80 kilometers of driving. The journey is short and offers beautiful views.
Total Distance: 80 km driving, 75 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via I-75 is the fastest method, taking about 1 hour total.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to travel.
Compare Mackinac Island to Sault Ste. Marie Routes
|
Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour | 20 mins |
| Avg Price | $15 | $30 |
| Operator | Personal Vehicle | Shepler's Ferry |
| Route | I-75 North. | Mackinac Island to St. Ignace. |
| Tip | I-75 is the most direct route to Sault Ste. Marie. | Check the ferry schedule for seasonal changes. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry BookingBook your ferry tickets online to save time.
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TrafficAvoid driving during rush hour in Sault Ste. Marie.
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NavigationUse GPS for the best route through the city.
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Rest StopsPlan your stops along I-75 for fuel and food.
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WeatherBe prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Safety Tips
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Winter DrivingBe prepared for heavy snow and icy roads in the Upper Peninsula.
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WildlifeWatch for deer on the road, especially at night.
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Vehicle MaintenanceCheck your car before the long drive.
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Emergency KitKeep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle.
People Also Ask
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How long is the drive?The drive from St. Ignace to Sault Ste. Marie is about 1 hour.
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Is there a train?No, there is no direct train service to Sault Ste. Marie.
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Can I fly?There are no direct commercial flights from the island.
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What is the ferry cost?Round-trip tickets are around $30.
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Is I-75 safe?Yes, it is a well-maintained highway.
Quick Info
- From Mackinac Island, Michigan, United States
- To Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Summer for outdoor activities in Sault Ste. Marie.
Things to Do in Sault Ste. Marie
1
Soo Locks
Watch ships pass through the famous locks connecting Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
2
Tower of History
Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the St. Marys River.
3
Museum Ship Valley Camp
Explore this historic freighter turned museum.
4
River of History Museum
Learn about the history of the St. Marys River and the surrounding region.
Tags
Mackinac Island to Sault Ste. Marie
I-75 route
ferry to St Ignace
Sault Ste. Marie travel
Michigan road trip
driving to Sault Ste. Marie
Mackinac ferry
Sault Ste. Marie transit
