By Robert Miller
When you think about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the first thing that comes to mind is the massive Mackinac Bridge you have to cross to get there. Some people wonder what it would be like to experience going to the very top of this superstructure.
I've been fortunate to photograph the "Big Mac Bridge" four times over the last sixteen years: twice during the summer months on spectacular days and twice in the dead of winter when the winds and snow were blowing steadily.
How do you get to the top? First, with permission, security is tight, and the Mackinac Bridge Authority must coordinate the event. Getting to the top of the bridge is an adventure. It's challenging and probably not a good idea for those with claustrophobia or a fear of heights. It involves climbing through a narrow, shaped oval hatch in the side of one of the bridge's two towers facing the road and maneuvering through the maze-like, dimly lit interior. An elevator inside the tower is barely big enough to fit three people crammed together. Still, the elevator does not travel all the way up, so you
must climb the remaining 40+ feet of ladders before finally wiggling through an even smaller opening at the summit – a considerable feat when you have camera equipment. Arriving at the top, you are 550 feet above the water surface and 350 feet above the roadbed and traffic below. My first-ever visit in June 2008 was an epic event with perfect summer weather and the ability to get to the top of the bridge before sunrise.
Spectacular Views: When you arrive at the top, you'll have panoramic views of Lake Michigan and Huron, the surrounding landscape, and the Straits of Mackinac. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. It's enough to take your breath away. At that very moment, I was awestruck by the contrasting beauty of lower and upper Michigan and our lakes.
Wind and Weather: The wind at such a height can be strong and make the experience feel more intense. Weather conditions can also change rapidly, affecting your visibility and comfort. This was especially true during my winter visit. The wind started howling, and it became freezing. We were fully prepared and stayed on top for nearly two hours. However, on my early June morning visit, the air was slight and warm, and we arrived at the top just before sunrise, which allowed us to photograph the rising summer sun.
Height Sensation: The sheer height is exhilarating and potentially nerve-wracking, especially if you're uncomfortable with heights. I'm not, and I relished the experience. Looking down at the water and the bridge deck below, where cars and trucks pass, is beyond excellent.
Ambient Sound: Very little traffic crossed the bridge during my summer pre-dawn visit. It was dead quiet and unlike anything I had ever experienced before. But as soon as a vehicle touched the part of the bridge suspended over the water, you could "hear" and "feel" its presence on the bridge even if you could not see it. The entire bridge slightly vibrates in the presence of traffic. If you listen carefully, the gentle lapping of the waves washing to the shores far below provides the background music. The bridge also includes its own entertainment, with its never-ending creaks, hums, moaning, and groaning due to the wind and vehicle movement. This was the scariest part of my adventure. Thankfully, I had a bridge expert with us who told us to expect this.
This experience is not typically available to the public. It is generally reserved for maintenance and inspection personnel specially trained to handle the conditions and risks associated with such a height. I'm thankful I can share my experience and photographs with Cloverland Connections readers. Next time you cross The Mighty Mac, I hope you sincerely appreciate this beautiful structure. It's "Pure Michigan!"
About the Author:
Robert Miller grew up in Michigan and splits his time between Canton and Thompson, Michigan. Up north, he lives on the shores of Lake Michigan. Miller is a National Geographic author and photojournalist and focuses on stories from assignments worldwide. He specializes in visually telling stories that rarely get noticed or published. Learn more about Robert Miller and his projects at https://roberthmiller.com.