The annual Mackinac Bridge Walk drew more than 33,000 participants this year, continuing a long-standing tradition now in its 67th year. The event has taken place each Labor Day since 1958, with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and remains a regular fixture on Northern Michigan’s calendar.
Under the "picture-perfect" conditions of bright skies and mild breeze, people gathered early in the morning to cross the iconic structure. According to WXYZ, Mackinac Bridge Authority Bridge Director Kim Nowack said, "About 33,000 people enjoyed this beautiful day and walked the bridge, with roughly 3,000 more participants taking the trek than in 2024." The additional 3,000 participants signify an increase in the event's appeal.
Traffic modifications were implemented to accommodate the large number of participants, with the Mackinac Bridge closed to vehicles from 6:30 a.m. until noon. This allowed for continuous pedestrian movement, with walkers starting the route from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City.
The 2025 Mackinac Bridge Walk offered several route options to accommodate participants with different preferences and abilities, as detailed by The Petoskey News-Review. Walkers could complete the full 10-mile round trip, arrange their own transportation after a one-way walk, or choose to walk part of the bridge before returning to their starting location. At the end of the event, participants received a commemorative certificate recognizing their involvement in the annual tradition.
As noted by ClickOnDetroit, the increased turnout reflects the event’s "enduring charm" and its role in providing a "unique chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac," as well as an opportunity to take part in a recognized tradition within the state.
