We had some great adventures and experiences in 2019. It was hard to pick only 10. But we here are they, in no particular order. Our favorite 2019 adventures.
Winter Camping at Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is one of the few state parks that is open all year round. It offers beautiful scenery, pleasant hikes, and wildlife viewing. We decided to camp here for my birthday.
Introducing Hogback Mountain to Family
We have hiked Hogback Mountain a few times in the past, but this year we introduced some of our family members to it.
Swimming in Pigeon River
There were a couple of very hot days this summer. What better way to cool off while camping than a swim in a favorite lake?
Discovering the Silver Lake Basin
Buried deep within the Huron Mountains is a lone lake. On a map, I suspected it might be swampy. On arrival, it took my breath away. This area is not only beautiful but also perfect habitat for moose, which we quickly discovered, are here.
Finding the Summit Cut
The Upper Peninsula is full of rich, forgotten history. With a bit of research, there is a whole new world that can be unlocked. The Summit Cut is one such instance. The remains of a railroad that never ran and a reminder that the Huron Mountains will always be wild.
The Aurora
For years the Aurora Borealis evaded us. Ever time we traveled to area the lights would put on a show…the day after we left. It was a running joke among friends and family. No longer. In 2019, we saw our first show.
Finding Cliff River Falls
Cliff River Falls, aka Forty Foot Falls, is one of the more well known and visited “hidden” waterfalls of the Huron Mountains. Accessing it will need a good, high clearance vehicle that can handle a bit of deep sand and mud. The journey is well worth the trip.
Hiking the Hidden Trails on Mackinac Island
My family and I have been to Mackinac Island countless times. But never have I been on dirt trails. Real trails. Every time we come to the island we discover something new. These little trails are certainly gems.
Watching a Sunset from “Belenus Point”
This was a special adventure for many reasons. The first being we have our very own place to watch the sunset on our property. The second being while watching the sunset, we get to enjoy the call of bear. The resident bears can be an adventure all in themselves.
Hiking/Running in the Huron Mountains
If I had to pick an absolute favorite adventure of the year, I would be able to narrow it down to our hikes and my runs in the Huron Mountains. There isn’t one specific one that stands out. They are all my favorite because this place is home.
