ST. IGNACE (WWJ) – The annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk saw its biggest crowd since 2016.
Bridge officials say 35,000 people from Michigan and beyond showed up Monday morning to make the trip across the Mighty Mac in light breezes and bright sunshine.
Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) Bridge Director Kim Nowack said it was the largest crowd the event has seen since 45,000 turned out in 2016. There were nearly 10,000 more participants this year than in 2022.
"It was a beautiful day, and a perfect opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled views of the Straits,” Nowack said, per a press release.
The bridge, which closed at 6:30 a.m. to all vehicle traffic ahead of the walk, reopened promptly at noon.
Based on the success of the recent events, the 2023 Annual Bridge Walk again started from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, which eliminated the need for busing and offered additional options for participants.
The Bridge Walk first began in 1958.