Michigan Bucket List: Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
Lily Mahnken
| 2 min read
Take a step back in time at Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park, where you can uncover Native American teachings carved into stone. Nestled in Michigan’s Thumb, the Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park is one of the few places in Michigan where visitors can see Native American history up close.
What are petroglyphs?
These petroglyphs, or carvings, are called “ezhibiigaadekasin,” which translates to “written on stone” in the Anishinaabe language. The carvings are believed to be 1,400 years old, and they represent art and teachings passed down through Native American generations. This site is considered a place of reflection and learning, and today many Native Americans and tribal elders use this site as a place for connection.
To preserve and protect the sacred Petroglyphs, the State of Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2019, stating that the tribe will co-manage the park. This marks the first state and tribal co-management of a state park in Michigan.
Planning a trip to the Sanilac Petroglyphs
The Sanilac Petroglyphs are one of the most visited attractions in the Thumb, but what exactly does it entail and how do you get there? The state park is located about 12 miles northeast of Cass City. Once in the park, the petroglyphs are at the end of a quarter mile trail through a still, peaceful forest. There is an enclosure where visitors can view the carvings up close. The Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park also includes a separate mile-long hiking loop that crosses a branch of the Little Cass River.
When visiting the park, here are safety tips to keep in mind:
- Watch out for roots and uneven surfaces on the trail.
- Be mindful of weather, especially rain because the trail can flood easily.
- Be respectful and mindful of the carvings; do not touch or climb on the rock.
When to visit
The state park is open year-round, but the enclosure that protects the petroglyphs is open from 10a.m. to 5p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The best time to visit is during the spring, summer or fall when the weather is mild and trails are easily accessible.
For more information, visit the Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park website.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
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