There are few things more exciting than the first run or hike on a new trail system. I learned about the Ingham Conservation District trail from a local running group and was eager to check them out. I was pleasantly surprised by these trails and can’t wait to get back out on them.
Tourists flock to Michigan in the summertime and for good reason. The outdoor opportunities are limitless. Michigan offers a wide variety of options for people with all sorts of interests. From water to trails, get outside this summer.
The L’Anse area is rich with hidden gems. From history and culture to waterfalls and mountain views, there’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. If waterfalls are your thing, here are 5 you don’t want to miss.
Marquette, Michigan is rich in wild rivers and waterfalls. From small, single-drops to massive, multi-tiered, Marquette has all sorts of waterfalls. It is one of my favorite places to jump on the trails and visit some of these gems.
When trail conditions are poor, either from extreme mud or deep snow, I prefer finding a more effective location to get my run in. Elsewhere, choices are typically limited to road or sidewalks, but here, the Lansing River Trail provides a third option.
Miners Falls is one Michigan waterfall that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Surrounded by the endless beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Miners Falls can hold its own.
Mossy Cave is located at the end of a short hike in Bryce Canyon National Park in the beautiful state of Utah. Mossy cave isn’t what one might typically think when imagining a cave but with easy access and a unique surrounding area, it is worth a visit.
I love birds and if you’re like me, the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary is one place you’ll want to visit. Located in Augusta, Michigan, this bird sanctuary gives visitors the opportunity to get close to some of Michigan’s most interesting residences.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain Range and stretch for 550 miles, from Georgia to Maryland. They contain two national parks, miles of stunning vistas, amazing hikes, and gorgeous waterfalls. One such waterfall is Linville Falls in North Carolina.
There is a place in Michigan that is incredibly wild and remote. With miles of trails, scenic waterfalls, hardwood forests, and wild rivers, McCormick Wilderness Area is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. However, the unmarked trails make this place a destination for experienced hikers.
If you are familiar with Stephen King’s novel, The Shining, you may know that the inspiration for the haunted hotel comes from a real place – the Stanley Hotel – located in the breath-taking town of Estes Park, Colorado. I was lucky enough to attend a conference at this infamous hotel and fell in love.
Pigeon River State Forest (east of Gaylord, Michigan) is home to one of the largest herd of elk east of the Missippissi. This place is so special. There is nothing more magical than seeing a free-range elk in its natural habitat. However, most people don’t take the opportunity to go find these majestic and shy creatures. Instead, people can visit these animals at Gaylord’s Elk City Park.
If you are looking for an easily accessible winter waterfall adventure, Powerhouse Falls is an excellent option to add to your itinerary.
Agate Falls is one of Michigan’s impressive waterfalls. It is nearly 40 feet in height and cascades over a beautiful sandstone terrace. It can provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience.
Hidden within the Rock River Wilderness Area in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a beautiful, secluded waterfall. Narrow roads and a trail thick with mud make getting to Rock River Falls an adventure in itself. A journey that is well worth it.
Each year people travel north to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in hopes of catching a glimpse of the mystical Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). We were lucky enough to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right conditions.
There is something special about running or hiking on secluded trail. With no people, it is easy to lose yourself in thought and reconnect to the natural world. The North Country Trail (NCT) offers that outlet for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
During Michigan’s Trail Week, I was attempting to hike or run different trail systems every day. This led me to Lincoln Brick Park. Often overshadowed by the neighboring Fitzgerald Park, this small historic place has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts.
Privately owned, Horseshoe Falls is one of the many beautiful waterfalls in the city of Munising. Surrounded by ferns and moss, this picturesque waterfall is worth stopping to visit, at least once.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is well known for small, hidden waterfalls that few people know about. Chatham Falls is known to locals but not frequently visited by those passing through the village of Chatham.
The Mackinac Bridge is an iconic symbol of Michigan. It is the gateway that connects two peninsula over miles of water. Nestled on its southern shore is a lighthouse that has been a beacon for ships long before the bridge began to shine.
A small waterfall tucked away on one of Pictured Rock’s most beautiful beaches. Elliot Falls, also known as Miners Beach Falls, is an iconic waterfall of the area.
Waterfalls created by or surrounded by dams are not my favorite. But every once in awhile, one must look beyond the concrete and fencing to see what beauty can be found. Forestville Dam Falls is one such case.
Hidden deep within a protected gorge is a roaring waterfall known as Sturgeon River Falls. Located on the powerful Sturgeon River, this is one waterfall that is well worth the challenge to visit.
The Penosha Trail offers a 5 mile loop through pretty forest and fields. Well maintained, but not without its share of hidden rocks and roots. This is one trail worth running.