Upper Peninsula

  • Finding Northwoods Quiet at Van Riper State Park

    Finding Northwoods Quiet at Van Riper State Park

    Few things bring me more joy than an extended weekend in one of the beautiful state parks in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. There is a shift that happens the second you cross over the Mackinac Bridge and into the U.P. The air gets a little cooler, the pines smell a little richer, and time naturally slows…


  • A Bucket List Worthy Waterfall: Miners Falls

    A Bucket List Worthy Waterfall: Miners Falls

    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 woods.


  • Why Presque Isle in Marquette, Michigan is a Must

    Why Presque Isle in Marquette, Michigan is a Must

    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.


  • A Walk Through History: Fayette Historic State Park

    A Walk Through History: Fayette Historic State Park

    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.


  • A Weekend Caming Trip to Straits State Park

    A Weekend Caming Trip to Straits State Park

    Take a trip over the bridge (if you’re a troll that is) and spend some time camping at Straits State Park! Located just outside of St. Ignace, this campground offers a fantastic camping experience with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Mackinac Bridge. Spanning over 180 acres, this park is not just a place…


  • Go On an Adventure with the Two Hearted Half Marathon

    The Two Hearted Trail Run is an iconic race set deep within a remote and stunning area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Imagine yourself surrounded by pristine wilderness, old-growth forest, and serene lake views.


  • Why I Loved Running the Tahqua Trail 25K

    Why I Loved Running the Tahqua Trail 25K

    Imagine spending a morning among giant pine trees, fern-covered forest floors, lush bogs, a wide river with waterfalls, and beautiful lakes where moose love to roam. Sound perfect? I thought so. The Tahqua Trail Run takes runners along a spectacular route that has all of those things and more. Out of all of the races…


  • Staying at Island Lake Campground in Hiawatha National Forest

    Staying at Island Lake Campground in Hiawatha National Forest

    If you like camping in peace and solitude, off the beaten path but still close to a multitude of things to do, Island Lake Campground is the perfect place for you.


  • A Bucket List Race: The Rock River Canyon 50K

    A Bucket List Race: The Rock River Canyon 50K

    Ever since my first ultra three years ago, I have been eyeing the Rock River Canyon 50K. This race is described as a race for runners who want to “immerse themselves in the wild backcountry of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on Zen single track”. Now that I have completed this race, I can honestly say that…


  • My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway

    My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway

    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 never felt confident enough with…