The 45th Parallel, Northern Michigan

What Is The 45th Parallel?

The 45th parallel north is a latitude circle that resides at 45 degrees north from the equator. The is culturally known as the halfway point between the equator and the North Pole, though this isn’t technically the case. It can be a fun way to describe the geography and relation of locations to a curious mind either way, though.

The parallel (or near it) is a beautiful place to be during the summer, as the sun becomes visible for nearly 16 hours of the day. This is about half of that time during the winter solstice. These relevancies are what make this line of latitude so unique. It is intriguing to the young and old alike that the residents along this latitude line, whether in Mongolia or in Oregon, receive the same amount of sun every day. Adding to the reality of this consistency is that there are so many places to experience the 45th parallel, and Northern Michigan is one of them.

Connected by a Circle of Latitude

Besides the graceful views that our state has to offer, though, there are so many other locations worldwide that also induce wonder and relevance. Internationally there are some unique places to take advantage of. In France, it extends through areas such as the Rhone-Alpes and Limousin, both being stunning yet quaint regions to visit. The 45th parallel crosses through Italy as well and is best experienced within the town of Voghera. This is a comune located in the Province of Pavia, embedded within the region of Lombardy (for anyone who appreciates travel talk).

Other unique places around the world include Mongolia, Canada, Bosnia, Croatia, and even the center of Ruma, which is in Serbia. Many international bodies of water are also within this particular area, such as the Gulf of Venice, the Sea of Japan, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea.

Coming back to the United States, there are quite a few areas that are touched by this circle of latitude. Oregon, Idaho, Maine, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and then finally, Michigan is all the states of impact. Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and the Passamaquoddy Bay are the primary local waters along the 45th parallel trajectory.

When we zoom in on Michigan, for example, it is noticeable that this consistency line touches a straight path of locations within the state. These locations are sometimes marked with signs and plagues that help educate passersby on the value of the place they are residing in at that moment. In many cases, there is no indicator that the 45th parallel is present. Thus, it seems to be essential to provide a sort of guide as to where to experience the 45th parallel within the state of Michigan. So, the next question is, where are these places?

45th Parallel

The first place in Michigan that I believe should be added to the list Is the Old Mission Point location. This is found north of Traverse City, a prestigious yet welcoming city of Northern Michigan. Old Mission Point resides at the end of the drive down Old Mission Peninsula, a beautiful scenic route.

This 45th parallel marker is not entirely accurate as it references this placement to be the halfway point between the north pole and the equator, but keep in mind this is there just for ease of reference. Old Mission Point tends to be both a local and a tourist favorite, giving way to a lot of foot traffic. For the sake of clarity and awareness, the sign is not meant to be entirely accurate but rather insightful.

Another favorite for this intriguing destination is the marker in Kewadin (not far from the Torch Lake area) at the Hugh J. Gray memorial rock display. This rock display contains pieces from all 83 Michigan counties, spotlighting the diversity and unification that the state represents. The monument is in place to honor Hugh J. Gray, a Michigan man who sought to channel tourism into the state. Though he remains underappreciated, his actions and mission have helped Michigan become what it is today in more ways than one.

This 45th parallel marker brings in a decent amount of attention, but unfortunately, there is little foot traffic to this monument since the rerouting of US-31. If you hope to see some of the more unique places in Michigan, I recommend viewing the 45th parallel markers and this site or those scattered in the area.

You can also find a few other cities with 45th parallel destinations, such as Leland, Atlanta, Sutton's Bay, Mancelona, Bellaire, Gaylord, and Alpena, throughout the state. Don't be confused by this, though, as many towns reside in the 45th parallels’ lateral belt. Just enjoy the irony of geography and appreciate the way it all connects us.

Appreciating the 45th Parallel

There is so much history and tradition wrapped in locations like these that one could genuinely elevate themselves merely by standing in the spot of so many others before them, whether that day or 10, 20, 30 years ago. It is little points and places like this that remind us of the physicality that ties us together. Knowing that someone in the world can appreciate the same sunrise or sunset as you, yet through different tree limbs, hazed by further traveled clouds, and surrounded by foreign commodities and comforts. It is both relieving and a reminder.

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Whether you’re appreciating the moment and relevancy of location from the four walls you call home or looking out over the bay at Old Mission Point, the 45th Parallel is awe-inspiring. It is worth keeping on hand thereafter experience, many times fold.