The Great Debate: How Much Land Can You Fit in a Mitten?
Ah, Michigan. The Mitten State. Home to Vernors, Motown, and enough Great Lakes coastline to make your head spin (or maybe that's just after a pasty). But have you ever stopped to wonder, just how big is this mitten-shaped marvel?
There seems to be a bit of a disagreement floating around the internet, like whispers on the wind across Mackinac Island. Some sources say Michigan is a whopping 97,000 square miles, big enough to fit a whole lot of Jiffy Dogs. Others claim it's a more modest 56,000 square miles, perfect for a cozy game of euchre.
So, what's the deal? Is Michigan a landlocked leviathan or a Great Lakes guppy?
The Mitten's Got Layers, Man!
The truth is, Michigan's size depends on what you consider "Michigan." Here's the skinny:
- Landmass Love: If we're talking strictly solid ground (you know, the stuff you can actually walk on without needing a kayak), Michigan comes in at around 58,110 square miles. That's still pretty darn big, enough to fit two New Jerseys with room to spare for a Bob Seger concert.
- Great Lakes Glory: But here's where things get interesting. Michigan boasts some serious Great Lakes real estate. Including all that gorgeous blue water bumps the total area up to a cool 97,990 square miles. That makes Michigan the largest state east of the Mississippi River (by total area), including all that sweet, sweet lake water.
So, How Big is Michigan REALLY?
Here's the answer that will satisfy everyone (hopefully):
- It depends on how you measure it! Landmass only? Around 58,110 square miles. Include all that glorious Great Lakes water? Michigan stretches to a mighty 97,990 square miles.
No matter which way you slice it (like a delicious Sanders fudge hot fudge sundae), Michigan is a pretty darn big mitten!
FAQ: Mastering the Mitten's Measurements
Still scratching your head about Michigan's size? Fear not, intrepid explorer! Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions:
- How to measure Michigan's landmass? Grab a map, a ruler, and maybe a calculator (or fire up Google Maps for a handy area measurement tool).
- How to experience all of Michigan's vastness? Road trip! Pack your car, crank up the tunes, and hit the open road (just be sure to factor in all that Great Lakes shoreline for some epic pit stops).
- How to appreciate Michigan's Great Lakes glory? Take a boat tour, rent a kayak, or simply stand on the shore and marvel at the freshwater majesty.
- How to avoid getting lost in the vastness of Michigan? Download a map app, bring a good old-fashioned paper map as backup, and maybe don't rely solely on your sense of direction after a couple of Vernors.
- How to celebrate Michigan's unique size? Throw a giant mitten-shaped pizza party (extra cheese, please!), wear your favorite Great Lakes apparel with pride, or simply raise a glass of Faygo to the Mitten State's magnificent sprawl!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
