A Fun Road Trip from Big Rapids to Burton: Exploring Michigan's Hidden Gems

Are you planning a road trip from Big Rapids, Michigan to Burton? If so, you're in for an exciting ride! This scenic drive covers approximately 120 miles, taking you through quaint towns, pristine forests, and beautiful lakeshores. But before you hit the road, it's essential to know the travel time and best routes to get there. In this article, we've rounded up the most optimal routes and calculated their driving times so that you can plan your perfect road trip.

Route One: US-131 South and I-96 East

This popular route takes you from Big Rapids to Burton in about 2 hours and 40 minutes, covering approximately 134 miles. To begin your journey, hit the US-131 South and continue driving for about 87 miles until you get to I-96 East. Take exit 67B towards Lansing and stay on I-96 East for 45 miles until you reach M-21 East exit towards Owosso.

We recommend making stops along the way to break up the journey. Some popular attractions include stopping at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids or the Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. For some natural beauty, stop by Lake Michigan for a picnic or hike in Muskegon State Park.

Route Two: M-46 East

If you're looking for a shorter distance but still want to enjoy scenic views, consider taking route two. This route covers approximately 96 miles and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. To start, take M-46 East for about 95 miles straight to downtown Burton.

While this route doesn't have many major attractions to stop at, it's perfect for travelers looking to take a more leisurely pace and admire Michigan's beautiful countryside. Don't forget to stop and stretch your legs at the Chippewa Nature Center, which offers trails and lakes for a relaxing picnic or hike.

Route Three: M-20 East

Route three is the shortest distance route, taking approximately 85 miles and two hours to drive. Start your journey on M-20 East and continue driving for about 75 miles until you reach US-127 South. Stay on US-127 South for about seven miles, and then take the exit towards Grand River Avenue and continue driving until you reach Burton.

This route offers plenty of small-town charm and scenic views, including a stop at the historical Stanley Hotel in Alma. If you're looking for a bite to eat, stop by the Hometown Diner or enjoy a quaint local shop in St. Louis.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, driving from Big Rapids to Burton is a scenic adventure with plenty of attractions, natural beauty, and hidden gems along the way. We recommend taking the time to explore Michigan's fantastic countryside, small towns and make memories on your journey. With these routes and tips, you're sure to enjoy the ride and arrive in Burton with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.