Different Road Trips To Take That Are Near Houghton, MI
How To Get Your Vehicle Road Trip Ready with Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC
There’s something special about packing up the car, grabbing some snacks, and hitting the open road—especially when you live in a place as beautiful as the Upper Peninsula. Around here, it doesn’t take much to find a scenic route worth exploring, and plenty of families stop by Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC in Houghton, MI, to chat about their next adventure. With so many road trips near Houghton, MI, it’s easy to plan a relaxing weekend getaway or a full-day drive through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Midwest.
Before diving into a few must-see routes and destinations, it’s always smart to talk about getting your vehicle ready for the journey. A great trip starts with a car that’s prepared for the miles ahead.
Top Keweenaw Peninsula Road Trips
1. Copper Harbor and Brockway Mountain Drive
If the goal is to experience one of the best scenic drives in Upper Michigan, Brockway Mountain Drive is at the top of the list. The route takes you along dramatic overlooks, dense forests, and views of Lake Superior that look like they belong on a postcard. Copper Harbor is the perfect spot to stretch your legs, grab lunch, or walk the shoreline. It’s one of the classic Keweenaw Peninsula road trips families return to year after year.
2. Eagle Harbor and Eagle River
These two small lakeside communities offer that quiet, charming feel that makes the U.P. so inviting. Take your time along the drive, stopping at Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, waterfalls, or any pull-off that catches your eye. This area is exceptionally peaceful for families looking for road trip destinations near Keweenaw without venturing too far from home.
3. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
If you’re up for a slightly longer adventure, the Porcupine Mountains—often just called “the Porkies”—are worth every mile. Whether you're hiking, taking in the Lake of the Clouds overlook, or simply cruising through winding forest roads, the beauty here never disappoints. It’s ideal for anyone craving a day full of nature, picnic spots, and Instagram-worthy views.
4. Marquette and Presque Isle Park
Marquette is a great day-trip option if your family wants shopping, dining, and nature all in one. Presque Isle Park’s shoreline drive is a peaceful loop around the peninsula with plenty of places to stop for photos. The drive down US-41 makes the trip enjoyable on its own.
How to Get Your Car Ready for a Road Trip
A smooth vacation starts with a reliable vehicle. Before heading out, make sure your car is in top shape. A little preparation goes a long way—especially when exploring rural routes where help isn’t always right around the corner. Here’s how to handle vehicle maintenance before a road trip.
1. Complete a Car Inspection Before a Long Trip
Before adding extra miles, it’s a good idea to make sure your brakes, tires, and fluids are all road-trip ready. A professional car inspection before a long trip helps give peace of mind and prevents unexpected issues once you're out on the road.
2. Check Fluid Levels and Filters
Motor oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid should all be topped off and cleaned. If it’s been a while since the last oil change, go ahead and get it done. Air filters are another quick check that can make a big difference in performance.
3. Examine Tires and Tread
With the mix of winding roads and waterfront routes around the U.P., solid tire tread is essential for safety. Don’t forget to check tire pressure too—temperature changes can affect PSI more than people think.
4. Test the Battery
A weak battery tends to show its true colors at the worst times. Make sure it’s holding a reasonable charge before you pack up the cooler and hit the highway.
5. Look Over Lights, Wipers, and Safety Items
It only takes a minute to test headlights, brake lights, hazard lights, and turn signals. Fresh wipers can make a surprising difference on rainy or misty days near the lake.
6. Follow a Summer Road Trip Vehicle Checklist
Having a summer road trip vehicle checklist helps ensure you don’t overlook anything significant. Items like jumper cables, a spare tire kit, a phone charger, and even a small first-aid kit are good to keep in the car year-round—but especially on road trips.
If you’re unsure about anything or don’t want to tackle these checks on your own, you can schedule pre-trip service at Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC. The technicians at the Chevy service center in Houghton, MI, help drivers every day with pre-road-trip prep, routine maintenance, and detailed inspections.
Get Ready For Your Road Trip!
No matter which route you choose, the Upper Peninsula is full of unforgettable road trips near Houghton, MI. From the stunning overlooks of Brockway Mountain to the peaceful lakeside towns along the Keweenaw Peninsula, there’s something for every family to enjoy. But a great adventure starts before you even leave your driveway—taking the time for vehicle maintenance before a road trip ensures a smooth, stress-free journey. Stop by Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC in Houghton, MI, to schedule pre-trip service and get your car ready for a memorable getaway. With proper preparation, every turn of the road can be scenic, safe, and fun. So pack your snacks, grab the maps (or GPS!), and hit the road with confidence.
FAQs About Road Trips & Vehicle Prep
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How early should vehicle maintenance be done before a road trip?
A week before leaving is usually enough time. This gives you a buffer if any repairs or replacements are needed. -
What's the most important thing to check on a vehicle before a long drive?
Tires, brakes, and fluids are the essentials. These areas have the biggest impact on safety and comfort during travel. -
How often should I check my tires during a multi-day road trip?
Inspect them every morning-especially if temperatures drop overnight or if you're carrying extra weight. -
Do I need a professional inspection, or can I check things myself?
Basic checks can be done at home, but a professional inspection ensures nothing gets missed. It's an easy way to feel confident before heading out. -
Where can I get reliable pre-trip service near Houghton?
Schedule pre-trip service at Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC, where trained technicians can help get your vehicle ready quickly and safely.
Prepare for your next adventure with confidence. Stop by Keweenaw Chevrolet GMC to ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready.
| Day | Open | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Day | Open | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Day | Open | Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM | 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM | 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Department | Number |
|---|---|
| Sales | 906-379-0164 |
| Service | 906-451-4211 |
| Parts | 906-337-2412 |