How Long is the Mackinac Bridge?: An Engineering Masterpiece

Fernelius Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram loves our Big Mac! No, we’re not talking about the fast-food burger joint, we’re talking about the Mackinac Bridge! Learn all about the length of the bridge, as well as a variety of other fun facts. We hope to be your resource for all things Cheboygan!

How Long is the Mackinac Bridge?

Just how long is the Mackinac Bridge? It’s an impressive 26,372 feet long and is an engineering masterpiece designed to accommodate our crazy weather in the Cheboygan Michigan area. Did you know that the bridge is designed to sway as much as 35 feet during high winds safely? Learn more fun facts from Fernelius Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near Onaway!

How To Pronounce Mackinac: Mackinaw or Mackinac?

There is a lot of discussion about how to pronounce the word correctly. Regardless of how it looks, the last syllable is “awe,” not “ack.” If you MUST say “ack,” call the bridge “Big Mac.” Phonetically, it sounds like Mackinaw. So, what’s with all the controversy? It could have to do with French or British pronunciations. The French pronounced it “awe,” but for some reason, spelled it “ac.” The British thought they heard it pronounced as “aw,” so they incorrectly spelled it that way. Regardless of the spelling, though, it’s pronounced with an “awe” at the end.

Where is it Located?

Wondering how to get to Mackinac Island and where it’s located? Let’s answer the question the traditional Michigan way. Hold up your left hand with your palm facing out, finger up, and thumb sticking out a bit. That’s a quick and easy map of the State of Michigan, which looks a little like a wintertime mitten. Next, look at the top of your middle finger, and that’s where Mackinac Island is. It’s in the water between Michigan’s lower and upper peninsulas, and going over the Mackinac Bridge is how you get there.

What to Do on Mackinac Island

Mackinac is a charming island that is close to everything yet far enough away that it feels like a mini-vacation. You might even feel like you’re stepping back in time. Enjoy the sound of the horse-drawn carriages and neighbors greeting each other by name. The island prohibits motor vehicles, so you can’t drive all the way to Mackinac Island. Once you cross the bridge, you’ll have to proceed by bike, ferry, or airplane, but that’s a big part of the fun. It will make you slow down and enjoy the journey for a change. 

Learn More About Mighty Mac from Fernelius Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!

Even if you don’t make it to Mackinac Island, there’s so much to do in Cheboygan! If you have any questions about the Indian River and Petoskey areas, feel free to contact us.