Fayette Historic State Park
Garden, MI
Fayette Historic State Park preserves an iron smelting town from the 1800s on the Garden Peninsula, set around Snail Shell Harbor and its white limestone cliffs. The beach and designated swim area face Big Bay de Noc. The water is exceptionally clear, and the old furnace ruins make it one of the most striking backdrops on Lake Michigan.
A ghost town, limestone cliffs, and clear water in one stop, though the Garden Peninsula is a long drive from anywhere.
How we score beachesWalk the townsite first, then swim with the cliffs of Snail Shell Harbor in view.
A Michigan Recreation Passport (or nonresident pass) is required.
Paved paths connect the townsite and day-use area; the beach is a short walk.
The townsite buildings are open for tours in summer. Big Bay de Noc is clearest on calm mornings.
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