The bridge usually forms in February when the Strait waters between the island and the mainland freeze to a safe thickness for snowmobile travel. Once full passage is assured, islanders haul out their old Christmas trees to plant as route markers from island to shore. The ice bridge can last for just a few days or for up to two months, depending on each winter's temps. Greyhound is the only carrier and has just one route running from Cadillac north with subsequent stops in Traverse City, Petoskey, Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. The bus departs early evening from Cadillac and returns from St. Ignace early each morning.
Greyhound operates ticket offices in each of the towns listed.
Local hours are limited, so it's wise to call ahead. Airports Grand Traverse Cherry Capital Airport 1330 Airport Access Rd. More than 300,000 travelers pass through Cherry Capital's gates each year as they venture northward for work and play. Year-round service is provided by American Eagle, Northwest Airlines, Northwest Airlink and United Express with several flights per day connecting through Chicago O'Hare and Detroit Metropolitan Airports. Additional flights and airlines are often added during the summer's peak tourist period.