Turnip Rock: Michigan’s Stunning Formation
Along the Michigan tip thumb shoreline, located a geologic formation called Turnip Rock, estimated to be thousands years old. This dolostone stack has been severely undercut by wave erosion over millennia. It’s just offshore from the historic gated community of Pointe aux Barques, so the best way to see Turnip Rock is by boat.
The small base of the rock supports a larger top, giving it its iconic turnip-like appearance. Its unique appearance has made it a popular tourist attraction, although it is located entirely on private property. The only access to Turnip Rock is by water, and there is no public road access.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Most of the visitors opt to kayak from the village of Port Austin, launching from Bird Creek county park, Veterans Waterpark, or Port Austin State Harbor-or a seven-mile paddle out in batch that takes two to four hours.
Once at Turnip Rock you can also see a formation called Thumbnail Point and explore seacaves.
Local businesses offer kayak rentals and boat tours. This is the long paddle -sometimes in open water. Weather on the Great Lakes can change in an instant. So be sure to check local marine weather conditions. And remember that wind speed and direction can make the journey dangerous. So wear a life jacket and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Address:
Port Austin, Michigan, 48467
United States
Location on Google Maps.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Turnip Rock, Pointe aux Barques Township, Huron County, Michigan, USA
- Coordinates
- 44.06832, -82.95906
- Access
- Access is by water only. The shoreline around Turnip Rock is privately owned: do not land, trespass, or climb the slippery rocks. Local kayak operators advise checking Lake Huron wind and wave conditions before setting out; the route is about 7 miles round trip.
- Admission
- No separate entry ticket is listed for viewing the rock from the water. Port Austin Kayak lists single-kayak rentals at US$40–45 for four hours; Turnip Rock Boat Tours lists US$60 per person for a 90-minute cruise. Check operators for current prices and seasonal availability.
- Time needed
- The kayak route from Port Austin is about 7 miles round trip and typically takes 2–4 hours; conditions and paddling ability affect timing.
- Opening hours
- No public opening hours are published. Access depends on safe weather and daylight; local boat-tour and kayak services are seasonal. Check the marine forecast and operator schedule before traveling.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-20
Location
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