So I recently received good news from my accountant, which means there's a high chance for a road trip this year. Thinking about heading up into the U.P. area, I'd be coming from NJ, maybe take The Mac Bridge and back down through Wisconsin. I'd be going week of June 10. Still too cold up that way then? 70s are ok, but I'd rather not be in 40-50s in the morning/evening.

 

You'll be OK temp wise mid June. Cannot say anything about rain, though.
We were in that area for 10 days last May for a kayaking trip. It only was crappy for one day. PM me if you want to know route we took. I'd do it again.

 

Recently talked to local in Copper Harbor. He recommended waiting until after June to avoid "horrible" black flies. But the area is gorgeous. So if you don't stop, the flies may not bother you!

 

Personally I'd prefer to ride in the U.P. in July or August.
Even then I recommend a heavy lonsleeve shirt and/or a sweater and you never can tell how the weather will be up there.

I have a rule (which I rarely break) and that's to NEVER leave home without a leather jacket! Actually, I keep it in my RH saddlebag with three pairs of light, medium, and heavyweight gloves!
My LH saddlebag is reserved for my tools, my "gators", and my rainsuit (which will fit over top of my leather).

Have a great time and ride safely.

 

I did that ride in June, 3 yrs ago. The mornings had some chill, but it was a great ride. Some real nice roads and scenery.

 

Good advice, I wouldn't have thought about the flies. The only times I've ridden in the U.P. were in July and August and I really enjoyed it. If you want a break, just after you cross the bridge, I would recommend a half day diversion by parking the bike and taking the ferry over to to Mackinaw island to walk around. Apparently no motorized vehicles are permitted (other than snow mobiles after the lake freezes) so everyone walks, bicycles, or rides in horse carts.

 

A little chill that can be combated with jacket is no big deal. The black flies sound like something to consider though.

Thanks!

 

I ride snowmobiles up there in winter and take cpl bike trips a year up there there is alot great stuff to see!!alot the roads where made for bikes"imo" h58 is a must do and pictured rocks!! make sure you go by Krups mini mart in Twin lakes for the best pasty in the state then hit the jam pot for jam and a good chat with the monks.....holy buckets soooo much to do up there we are heading there memorial day weekend around 20 of us cant go wrong in da yoop the people are the best.......if I can answer anything just ask......tunnel of trees is one favorits wait no h58 is my top road pic....Mac isl is a must...

you will find alot info here.....http://www.upcruising.com/

dont forget the Paulding light in Paulding Mich....

 

the Bridge can be fun to cross for first timer.....

 

http://www.upcruising.com/

this is a web page with motorcycle info for the u.p..