A driving route called the West Michigan Pike in western Michigan is being celebrated as a historic byway.
The West Michigan Pike is made up of several roadways, including U.S. highway 12, the Red Arrow Highway, the Blue Star Highway and South Shore Drive.
The route was developed a century ago to draw tourists to destinations along Lake Michigan.
An event to celebrate the designation takes place Monday in Muskegon.
The route passes through New Buffalo, St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, South Haven, Douglas, Saugatuck, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon, Whitehall, Montague and Pentwater.
"Pure Michigan Byways" in the state formerly were called "Michigan Heritage Routes."
The byways designation is part of an effort to encourage people to explore some of Michigan's most historically significant, culturally active and naturally beautiful areas.
