Winding along Michigan’s famed M-119, the Tunnel of Trees is more than a scenic drive—it’s a passage into an experience that combines vibrant local arts with the ancient forest’s embrace. Each September, Cross Village hosts its Art Festival, an event that invites visitors not only to admire fine craftsmanship but to walk through a living gallery framed by towering maples and birches that lean in as if curious about every brushstroke and carving.

The festival itself is compact yet immersive, stretching through the town’s heart where artists from the region display hand-crafted furniture, paintings, jewelry, and more. The appeal goes beyond the art: the atmosphere buzzes with the hum of discovery, where nature’s quiet authority meets human creativity. For adventure seekers, this isn’t just browsing artwork—it’s long stretches outdoors surrounded by a forest that dares you to slow down and truly engage.

Cross Village’s terrain is gentle but defined. The main accessible paths thread through the community’s inviting woodlands, offering flat stretches mixed with modest inclines. Expect to cover 1-3 miles depending on how deep into the festival and trails you wander. The forest canopy shifts light patterns like a memory in motion, and Lake Michigan nearby pulls air salted and cool, tempting visitors as a refreshing break.

To make the most of your visit, prep ahead: sturdy footwear handles uneven woodchip trails and occasional rocky patches. A water bottle is essential, not just for hydration but as a symbol of readiness to engage comfortably. Weather in early fall leans toward crisp days and cool nights, which means layering is your best strategy to stay comfortable as the sun arcs low. The festival’s open-air layout encourages lingering, so pacing yourself lets you absorb both the artworks and the whispering woods.

Beyond art, the event’s schedule often includes workshops, live demonstrations, and musical performances rooted in local tradition, offering a chance to connect directly with creators. This engagement turns admiration into learning and appreciation into action—as practical as it is inspiring.

In all, the Tunnel of Trees Art Festival is a chance to step into a space where nature’s ancient rhythms and human hands intersect. It invites both the casual visitor and the dedicated explorer to engage with the environment, art, and community on their terms. Whether you’re following the pathways or the pulse of creativity, this is a place where every turn is an introduction to something fiercely itself.