Adventures
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Exploring Crooked Lake Trail in Pinckney Recreation Area
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When the call for a challenging day on the trails comes, one destination in Southeast Michigan always answers. Pinckney Recreation Area. While many runners, backpackers, and hikers flock to its famous neighbor, the Potawatomi Trail, the Crooked Lake Trail offers a shorter but equally rewarding option.
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Michigan’s Gem: Exploring the North Country Trail in Yankee Springs
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I was looking for some new scenery for my long run. What I discovered wasn’t just a new trail, but an entirely new experience on the North Country Trail (NCT).
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A Bucket List Worthy Waterfall: Miners Falls
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When you think of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you often think of the iconic painted cliffs. But the waterfalls are my favorite. Miner’s Falls is one Michigan waterfall that should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is beautiful, powerful, and accessible by a relatively short and shaded walk in the…
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From Banshee to Piglet: A Celebration of Delilah
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Nearly six months ago, I lost my beagle boy, Brisco, to cancer. Since then, I have been trying to learn how to live without him. At the same time, I had to learn how to navigate the relationship I had with my beagle girl, Delilah. Delilah had never been a…
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Chasing the Roar: A Rainy Day Adventure at Dead River Falls
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What is the best way to spend a rainy day? Chasing waterfalls, of course! You might expect a river with the name Dead River to be still or stagnant, but you’d be wrong. Located in Marquette, Michigan, this waterway is anything but dead.
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Why Presque Isle in Marquette, Michigan is a Must
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Presque Isle Park in Marquette, Michigan, is truly a diamond amongst gems. This 323-acre forested peninsula juts out into Lake Superior, offering a perfect blend of rugged wilderness and accessible, family-friendly adventure.
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A Walk Through History: Fayette Historic State Park
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Nestled on the scenic Garden Peninsula in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Fayette Historic State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. This once-bustling industrial town is now a beautifully preserved outdoor museum.
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My Flirt with Dirt 5K & 10K Adventure
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I’m always searching for those unique races that offer not just a physical challenge but also a chance at an adventure. The Flirt with Dirt Trail race is one such event. Flirt with Dirt takes place on the beautiful trails of Maybury State Park in Wayne County, Michigan. Its 5K…
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A Tribute to My Best Friend
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Losing a “soul dog” is a unique kind of heartbreak. It is impossible to find the words that capture that profound connection. I can’t tell you how many times I have started and stopped this post over the past month. No matter what I write, the words feel hollow, unable…
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Hiking the Tranquil Penosha Trail in Brighton Recreation Area
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There is a special kind of magic in exploring a new trail, and the Penosha Trail in Brighton Recreation Area definitely delivers. If you’re like me and seek out those quieter corners of nature, this trail is a must-explore. Prepare for a peaceful wander through deep woods, sparkling lakes and…
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A Winter Expedition: Exploring Valhalla Park
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Winter hikes are one of my favorite things to do with my beagle, Brisco. We love exploring new trails, playing in the snow, and enjoying the fresh air. However, as he grows older sometimes the harder hikes through deep snow have been a bit more of a challenge for him.…
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Choose Your Michigan Outdoor Winter Adventure
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Winter in Michigan is a magical time of year. The landscape transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland. This bucket list will guide you on your journey of discovery, helping you embrace the cold and uncover the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that make Michigan winters truly special.
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Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette, Michigan: A Fall Adventure
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As the crisp air of autumn sweeps across Marquette, Michigan, there’s no better time to lace up the hiking boots and head to Sugarloaf Mountain. This local gem offers breathtaking views, vibrant foliage, and a sense of tranquility that’s perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature. There’s just something…
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Don’t Miss the Incredible Ash Cave in Hocking Hills
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You don’t want to miss Ash Cave in Hocking Hills State Park. Ash Cave isn’t like those we splunked through in Cumberland Caverns. It is a type of cave called a recess cave – and it is the largest one in the state of Ohio.
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Hiking to Cedar Falls in Hocking Hill State Park
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Cedar Falls is one of Hocking Hill State Park’s greatest waterfall by volume. However, don’t get your hopes up of seeing this waterfall roaring with life if you visit any time in the summer. Like the other waterfalls in this area, Cedar Falls is likely to dry up during the…
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The Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park
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Hocking Hills State Park is well known for its caves. But did you know that there is actually only one true cave within the park? That’s the Rock House. The Rock House cave is about 200 feet long and 20 to 30 feet wide with a high ceiling of 25…
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Top 5 Reasons Why Old Man’s Cave is Worth Exploring
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Old Man’s Cave is the most popular area in Hocking Hills State Park. There is so much to see along a short, easy hike that is unique and very beautiful.
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My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway
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When I first discovered the Big Bay Pathway, I was intrigued. I had difficulty finding any information about it other than a tiny image of a detail-less map and that it was used primarily for cross-country skiing. I visited what I had thought was the trailhead a few times but…
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Running on the North Country Trail: Pictured Rocks
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In 2016, we had the wonderful opportunity to backpack through the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Since then, it has been a dream of mine to run the length of the park. While this trip was short, it gave me a taste of that experience and made me even more determined…
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Over the Hills and Through the Creek: Running the Half at Winter Trail Fest – West Side
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In 2020, I set off on an adventure to complete my first winter trail run. It was 5 miles through Yankee Springs Recreational Area. It was cold, snowy, and a blast. I’m happy to say I have finally returned to the Winter Trail Fest – West (W.T.F) event and tackled…
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Finding Adventure in 2024
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There is something special about reflecting during this time of year. Perhaps it is because the new year feels like a clean slate – we can start over again. Or perhaps it is because things are slowing down as winter begins to settle in – at least for some people.…
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The Running Adventure I Didn’t Want at Proud Lake Recreation Area
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Visiting Proud Lake Recreation Area has been on my bucket list for quite some time now. With over 3,000 acres, including the scenic Huron River, this recreation area provides activities for all outdoor adventurers.
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The Magic of the Bush Bay Trail
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Take a magical hike in the woods on the Bush Bay Trail near Cedarville, Michigan. With beautiful views of Lake Huron, limestone and dolomite formations, and all the moss that would make a fairy garden jealous. This hike is well worth the stop. The Bush Bay Trail has been nicknamed…
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Exploring the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail
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Waterloo Recreation Area is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. With 20,000 acres of land, Waterloo Recreation Area is the largest state park in Michigan’s lower peninsula. It includes diverse camping options, 11 inland lakes, and multiple systems. On my visit, I decided to explore the extensive Waterloo-Pinckney Trail.
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Take a Hike at Maybury State Park
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Maybury State Park boasts nearly 1,000 acres of rolling terrain, open meadows, and mature forest. Located in southeast Michigan near the town of Northville, this park provides an excellent escape from the city. With trails to accommodate hikers of all experiences, horses, and bikers of all levels, Maybury State Park…