Cities and Towns in Cheboygan County, Michigan
Founded in 1840, Cheboygan County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Cheboygan County was formed from part of Mackinac County. The city of Cheboygan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 31, Cheboygan County has a population of 25,752 and area of 885 square miles (2,292 km²).
List of all cities in Cheboygan County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Afton, MI | 49705 | 231 |
| Burt Lake, MI | 49717 | 231 |
| Cheboygan, MI | 49721 | 231 |
| Indian River, MI | 49749 | 231 |
| Mackinac City, MI | 49701 | 231 |
| Mackinaw City, MI | 49701 | 231 |
| Mullett Lake, MI | 49761 | 231 |
| Topinabee, MI | 49791 | 231 |
| Tower, MI | 49792 | 989 |
| Wolverine, MI | 49799 | 231 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cheboygan County, Michigan
1. Cheboygan
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 7.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,707 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49721
- Latitude: 45.6464° N
- Longitude: 84.4742° W
Location and History
Cheboygan, the county seat of Cheboygan County, is located on the northeastern shore of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the Cheboygan River and Lake Huron. The city was originally a Native American settlement and later developed into a fur trading post. Cheboygan saw rapid growth in the mid-19th century due to its strategic location for lumbering and shipping. The completion of the Cheboygan River locks connected the inland waterways to Lake Huron, further bolstering its role as a transportation hub. As the timber industry waned, Cheboygan transitioned into a tourist destination, drawing visitors to its lakes, rivers, and historical sites.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cheboygan is served by Cheboygan Area Schools, with Cheboygan High School as the primary secondary institution. Major landmarks include the Cheboygan River Front Range Lighthouse, which guides ships navigating into the Cheboygan River from Lake Huron. Inland Waterway, which connects several lakes and rivers, offers boating and fishing opportunities. Cheboygan State Park provides trails, camping, and access to the beautiful shores of Lake Huron. The Opera House of Cheboygan, a restored historic theater, hosts cultural performances throughout the year. The annual Waterways Festival celebrates the town’s connection to its waterways, with parades, races, and community events.
2. Indian River
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.20 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,058 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49749
- Latitude: 45.4120° N
- Longitude: 84.6114° W
Location and History
Indian River is located in the heart of Cheboygan County, nestled between Burt Lake and Mullett Lake. The town was established as a resort community in the late 19th century, with its name reflecting its Native American heritage. Indian River developed as a popular vacation destination due to its proximity to Michigan’s famed Inland Waterway, a navigable water route stretching from Crooked Lake to Lake Huron. The village continues to draw visitors for its water-based recreation, with easy access to the lakes and rivers surrounding the community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Indian River is part of the Inland Lakes Schools district, with Inland Lakes High School serving the area. Notable landmarks include the Cross in the Woods, one of the largest crucifixes in the world, which attracts pilgrims and visitors from across the country. Burt Lake State Park offers camping, boating, and hiking along the shores of Burt Lake. Indian River Golf Club is a popular spot for golf enthusiasts. The Sturgeon River, known for its fast-flowing waters, is ideal for kayaking and canoeing. The annual Indian River Summerfest brings the community together with parades, fireworks, and family-friendly events.
3. Mackinaw City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 806 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49701
- Latitude: 45.7775° N
- Longitude: 84.7278° W
Location and History
Mackinaw City is located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, where Lake Michigan meets Lake Huron. The city’s history dates back to the 17th century, when it was an important center for the fur trade and home to Fort Michilimackinac, a strategic military outpost. In the 19th century, Mackinaw City grew as a transportation hub with the establishment of ferry services to Mackinac Island and later the construction of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957, connecting the Lower and Upper Peninsulas. Today, Mackinaw City is a major tourist destination, known for its historical sites and its role as the gateway to Mackinac Island.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mackinaw City is part of the Mackinaw City Public Schools, with Mackinaw City High School serving local students. Major landmarks include Fort Michilimackinac, a restored 18th-century fort that offers historical reenactments and exhibits. The Mackinac Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, is an iconic symbol of Michigan. Colonial Michilimackinac State Park offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, located near the bridge, provides tours and historical insights. The Mackinaw City Historic Village showcases the area’s pioneer history. Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry offers boat rides to the famous island, a key attraction.
4. Wolverine
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 226 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49799
- Latitude: 45.2670° N
- Longitude: 84.6050° W
Location and History
Wolverine is a small village located in southern Cheboygan County along the Sturgeon River. The village was founded in the late 19th century as a logging community, and its name reflects Michigan’s reputation as the Wolverine State. Wolverine grew as a result of the logging industry and the expansion of the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of timber and other goods. After the decline of the logging industry, Wolverine evolved into a quiet rural community, with its surrounding natural areas attracting outdoor enthusiasts for activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wolverine is part of the Wolverine Community Schools, with Wolverine Junior/Senior High School serving local students. The village’s major landmarks include the Sturgeon River, which is known for its trout fishing and provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Shingle Mill Pathway, located in the nearby Pigeon River Country State Forest, offers hiking trails and wildlife observation. Wolverine Park provides a central gathering spot for community events and picnicking. The annual Wolverine Lumberjack Festival celebrates the town’s history with games, competitions, and a parade, highlighting its logging heritage.
5. Topinabee
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.87 square miles
- Population: Approximately 330 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49791
- Latitude: 45.4489° N
- Longitude: 84.5917° W
Location and History
Topinabee is a small, unincorporated community located on the western shore of Mullett Lake, part of Michigan’s Inland Waterway. Founded in the late 19th century as a resort town, Topinabee was named after a Potawatomi chief. The village became a popular summer destination for visitors from Detroit and other cities who were drawn to its scenic lakeshore and tranquil surroundings. Over the years, Topinabee has maintained its status as a quiet resort community, known for its access to water-based recreation and its relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Topinabee is part of the Inland Lakes Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby Indian River. Major landmarks include Mullett Lake, which offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Topinabee Beach Park is a central spot for recreation, featuring a sandy beach, picnic areas, and boat docks. The Topinabee Library, housed in a historic building, serves as a community hub. North Central State Trail, which passes through Topinabee, is popular for biking, walking, and snowmobiling. The Topinabee Summer Festival is a beloved annual event that brings together locals and visitors for fun activities, food, and entertainment.
