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Clare Today
By the People, for the People
Tunnel of Trees Collapses in Northern Michigan After Heavy Rains
Spring erosion woes hit the scenic M-119 route, impacting local communities and infrastructure.
Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:34pm
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The collapse of the iconic Tunnel of Trees scenic route in Northern Michigan exposes the region's vulnerability to the impacts of extreme weather and climate change.Clare TodayParts of the iconic Tunnel of Trees along M-119 in Northern Michigan have collapsed due to a combination of heavy snowmelt and unexpected heavy rainfall this spring. The damage has affected local communities and infrastructure in the region, which is now under flood watches and warnings.
Why it matters
The Tunnel of Trees is a beloved scenic drive along Lake Michigan that attracts visitors from around the state and country. Its collapse due to spring erosion highlights the challenges Northern Michigan faces in maintaining critical infrastructure and tourist attractions in the face of extreme weather events.
The details
Multiple areas along the Tunnel of Trees, a section of M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village, have collapsed due to the excessive rainfall combined with rapid snowmelt. The Good Heart General Store reported the collapse of an area just south of Division. Flood watches and warnings are in effect for several counties in Northern Michigan, including Clare, Mecosta, Osceola, Lake, Mason, Newaygo, Cheboygan, and Oceana, as well as the entire Upper Peninsula.
- This past winter saw heavy snowfall that boosted ski resort business.
- The heavy snow has now led to rapid snowmelt combined with unexpected heavy spring rains.
- The collapse of the Tunnel of Trees occurred in mid-April 2026.
The players
MDOT
The Michigan Department of Transportation, which is responsible for maintaining state roads like M-119.
Good Heart General Store
A local business located along the Tunnel of Trees that reported the collapse of a section of the scenic route.
What’s next
MDOT will need to assess the damage and determine the best course of action to repair the Tunnel of Trees and restore the scenic route.
The takeaway
The collapse of the Tunnel of Trees highlights the vulnerability of Northern Michigan's infrastructure to extreme weather events driven by climate change. As the region faces more frequent and intense spring snowmelt and rainfall, maintaining critical tourist attractions and transportation routes will be an ongoing challenge.
