GAYLORD, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced it will keep most of the state’s 61 rest areas open through the winter, closing only five for safety and maintenance between Dec. 1, 2025, and April 20, 2026.
According to MDOT, the seasonal closures are due to low winter traffic and potential hazards such as steep driveways and icy walkways. “Many travelers look to our rest areas as safe stopping points,” said MDOT Transportation Systems Management and Operations Administrator Kim Zimmer, adding that maintaining open facilities year-round supports safety and convenience for motorists statewide.
The following rest areas will close for the season:
- St. Ignace Rest Area (I-75 southbound, Mackinac County)
- Ludington Rest Area (US-31 northbound, Mason County)
- Topinabee Rest Area (I-75 northbound, Cheboygan County)
- Hebron Rest Area (I-75 southbound, Cheboygan County)
- Hart Rest Area (US-31 southbound, Oceana County)
All other MDOT rest areas will remain open and maintained throughout the winter for drivers traveling across Michigan’s major highways. Closed facilities will have “Closed Until Spring” signs, directing motorists to the next available rest area.
For updated listings, visit Michigan.gov/RestAreas.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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