A stretch of M-119, better known as the Tunnel of Trees, was washed away today, suddenly cutting off an iconic section of the narrow lakeshore highway. County crews blocked the road while officials assessed the damage, and the site remained closed to traffic.
According to FOX 2 Detroit, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office said the pavement collapsed "presumably due to flooding" and that M-119 is closed between Island View and Division. The station published a photo credited to the sheriff’s office that shows the damaged roadway.
Rain and runoff likely to blame
The National Weather Service reported that much of northern Emmet County picked up roughly 0.5–1 inch of rain Sunday, with additional showers possible Monday night into Tuesday. Totals like that can generate heavy runoff that can undermine roadway fills along bluff-top routes such as M-119.
Road closed, drivers urged to avoid the area
The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office closed the damaged stretch and blocked access while crews secured the scene, according to FOX 2 Detroit. The outlet noted that officials had not yet given an estimate for when repairs might be finished, so drivers should expect delays if they rely on that north-shore corridor.
Why this stretch is especially vulnerable
M-119’s Tunnel of Trees section is narrow, often lacks shoulders, and hugs Lake Michigan’s bluffs. Those traits make the drive famously scenic but also leave it exposed to erosion and storm-related damage, according to the M-119 Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route Committee. The same design features limit space for emergency shoring and can complicate repair work after a washout.
How to stay updated
Drivers heading toward Harbor Springs, Good Hart, or Cross Village are advised to monitor county traffic alerts and updates from the National Weather Service for changing conditions and any posted detours. Check the Emmet County website along with the NWS Gaylord office for the latest information.
