2015 Edition

FREE Please Take One

The Straits Area Visitors Guide 2MACKINAW TODAY 2015

t Venues Cheboygan Chamber of Commerce n & Visitors Bureau 800-968-3302 or 231-627-7183 www.cheboygan.com e Cheboygan Opera House www.theoperahouse.org 231-627-5432 m Indian River Chamber of Commerce

n 800-EXIT-310 or 231-238-9325 www.irchamber.com 2015 i Mackinaw Today Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau 800-666-0160 or 231-436-5664 www.mackinawcity.com a Shawna Jankoviak Managing Editor t Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce

Renee Glass 888-455-8100 or 231-436-5574 www.mackinawchamber.com r Layout & Design Visitor’s Bureau Mackinaw Today is a free tourist

information paper with a total circulation e 906-847-6418 or 800-4-LILACS www.mackinacisland.org of 90,000 distributed to Welcome Centers and the area. t Mackinac State Historic Parks Published by Mackinac Journal & Mackinaw Today www.MackinacParks.com 308 N. Main Street, Cheboygan, MI 49721 (231) 627-7144 • Fax (231) 627-5331 n Copyright © 2015 St. Ignace Chamber of Commerce

E 800-970-8717 or 906-643-8717 www.stignace.com Contents Pancake Chef Welcome to Mackinaw ...... 3 Calendar of Events ...... 4 Complete Menu Tours ...... 8 and our Famous Mackinac State Parks ...... 10 Breakfast & Mackinac Island ...... 14 Dinner Buffets Bois Blanc Island ...... 15 ~ Cheboygan - A Place for All Seasons .16 Beer, Wine Indian River ...... 16 & Spirits Road Trips ...... 17 Music in Mackinaw ...... 19 Wilderness Areas ...... 20 231-436-5578 327 E. Central Ave. Camping ...... 21 Mackinaw City, Michigan’s Trail System ...... 22 MI 49701 Guest Map of Mackinaw City ...... 24 pancakechef.com MACKINAW TODAY 2015 3 Welcome to Mackinaw

f you find your self reading this the population ex plodes in the Iintroduction, you’ve most summer as nearly 10,000 to likely also found your way to 15,000 people per day make their Mackinaw City and the Straits way to this premier vacation des - area. tination during the peak season. Of course, Mackinaw and the Welcome to paradise. Straits area offer plenty to see In the summer — the most and do year-round, and can pro - popular time to visit this region vide a visitor with a memorable — you will discover a wealth of and fun-filled vacation during things to do, attractions to see, any month, be it January or July. and sights to behold, with many However, when summer is in suggestions and helpful hints in - full swing, there is never a dull cluded in the following pages of moment and no end to the ample this guide. opportunities for entertainment, Summer in the Straits area fun and recreation. brings warmer temperatures and The stories featured in the excellent opportunities for camp - Mackinaw Today are intended to ing, sightseeing, watersports, provide some suggestions of golfing, boating and shopping. things that can be done, events hotels and attractions around or stays for weeks. The sun is Unique festivals and events that can be attended and sights town for guidance in what to see shining, the lakes and rivers abound during the summer, fea - that can be seen. But visitors and do next. beckon, and your experience turing everything from parades should also explore for them - During the summer months, here is sure to be enjoyable! to crafts to music to cars. selves, talk to area locals that are Mackinaw City and the Straits Mackinaw City is home to less always happy to help out and area has plenty to offer the per - Have fun. than 900 full-time residents, but visit the merchants, restaurants, son or family who visits for a day 2015 MACKINAW SPECIAL EVENTS

May 16- 17...... 26th Annual De Mac Bike Race July 31 -Aug. 2 ...... Rendezvous in Mackinaw & 18th Century Market Fair May 16-17...... 5th Annual Red Hat's Diva Days August 1 ...... Icebreaker Mackinaw's "Coast Guard Day" (in Mackinaw City) May 23...... 12th Annual Memorial Day Bridge Run August I ...... Mini Coopers' Crossing Parade May 23 ...... Fireworks (dusk) August 4 ...... Antique Show May 23 - 25 ...... Memorial Day Parade/ Colonial Pageant August 7-9...... Ironworkers Festival June 5-14 ...... 66th Annual Lilac Festival (Mackinac Island) August 22 -23 ...... 26th Annual Corvette Crossroads Car Show (Parade over bridge al 7 pm) June 14 ...... Lilac Parade (4pm Mackinac Island) August 22-23...... Mackinaw City Premier Arts & Crafts Show June 13 ...... Bass Tournament - Carp Lake Sept. 7 ...... 58th Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk June 13-14 ...... Spring Big Mac Shoreline Scenic Bike Tour & Ride across the Bridge Sept. 11 ...... 8th Annual Tractor Parade June 19 - 20 ...... 19th Annual Antiques on the Bay St. Ignace Car Show Sept. 11 - 12...... 19th Annual Hopps of Fun June 25-27 ...... 40th Annual St. Ignace Car Show Sept. 19 ...... 19th Annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show (Down Memory Lane Parade at 7 pm on Friday the 26th) (Parade over bridge through Mackinaw City at dusk) June 27 - 28 ...... Mackinaw City Premier Arts & Craft Show Sept 19 - 20 ...... Fall Big Mac Shoreline Scenic Bike Tour & Ride across the Bridge Mid June - Labor Day ...... Music in Mackinaw (Tuesday's & Saturday's) Oct. 3 ...... Trek The Mighty Mack (Four-Wheelers/Dirt bikes/ORV's) July 4 ...... Independence Day Waterfront Events &. Fireworks (Parade across the Bridge) July 10 - 12 ...... 2nd Annual Mustang Car Show Celebration / Music Fest Oct. 9- 10 ...... Fort Fright (in Mackinaw City) Oct. 10 ...... 7th Annual Fall Colors Bridge Race July 11 -12 ...... 107th Chicago to Mackinac Yacht Race Oct. 10...... Fall Colors Fireworks (at 9:30 p.m.) at Conkling Heritage Park July 18 - 19 ...... Port Huron to Mackinac Yacht Race Oct. 9-11 ...... Great Pumpkin Hunt July 31 - August 1 ...... Mackinaw Area Historical Festival Oct. 9- 18 ...... Fall Shoppers Festival 231-436-5664 mackinawcity.com 800-750-0160 4 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 Straits Area Calendar of Events Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, St. Ignace, Carp Lake, Indian River & Cheboygan

Antiques on the Bay Classic & Labor Day Bridge Walk Port Huron to Mackinac Mackinac Island Antique Car Show Boat Race

May 13-19 Summer Fest – Indian River 2 2nd Annual Mackinaw City Magical Color Fun Run – 14 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 5k & 1 mile kids run/walk- Trailhead 18 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling 7 Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce Annual Community Heritage Park Breakfast – M. Reception & Conference Center (St. Anthony’s) 18-21 Port Huron to Mackinac Island Yacht Race- 8-10 Troop Mackinaw – Mackinaw City www.troopmackinaw.com Mackinac Island 15-17 Diva Days-Red Hat Extravaganza! [email protected] 21 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 16-17 Zoo –de-Mackinac- Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island 25 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling 23 12th Annual Mackinaw Memorial Bridge Run – Mackinaw City Heritage Park 23 Memorial Day Parade 1 PM and Fireworks at Dusk by MAVB – 26 Triathlon- 3D Racing- Mackinaw City Mackinaw City 28 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 23-25 Colonial Michilimackinac Pageant – Mackinaw City 28 Mighty Mac Golf Outing – Mackinaw City 23 Native American Festival- St Ignace 30 St. Anthony’s Catholic Church BIG Garage Sale 9am-4pm 25 Memorial Day Observance 10am- Marina Lawn to Cemetery- – Mackinaw City American Legion 31-Aug 1 Mackinaw Area Historical Festival – Mackinaw City 29-31 Troop Mackinaw – Mackinaw City www.troopmackinaw.com 31-Aug 2 Rendezvous & 18th Century Market Fair – Mackinaw City

June August 5-7 Troop Mackinaw – Mackinaw City www.troopmackinaw.com 1 Icebreaker Mackinaw “Coast Guard Day”- Mackinaw City 5-14 66th Annual Lilac Festival (Parade Sunday, 14th) – 1 Mini Cooper parade over Mackinac Bridge Mackinac Island 1 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling 13-14 Big Mac Spring Shoreline Scenic Bike Tour & Sunday Ride Heritage Park Across Mackinac Bridge – Mackinaw City 4 Woman’s Club Antique Show/Luncheon, 10am-4pm – 13-14 Summer Arts & Craft Show – Washington Park, Cheboygan High School - Mackinaw City 19-21 Antiques on the Bay Classic & Antique Car Show – St. Ignace 4 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 20 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling Heritage Park 6-8 Sidewalk Sales - Cheboygan 25-27 40th St Ignace Car Show Weekend (Friday, 26th, 7 pm, parade) 7 Dance North 8 PM - Roth Performance Shell Conkling – St. Ignace Heritage Park 27 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling Heritage Park 7-9 Ironworkers Festival -Fri 3:00pm Walk of Iron inductee’s- 27-28 Premier Arts & Craft Show, Saturday 8-7, Parade Saturday at 10 am – Mackinaw City Sunday 10-3 – Mackinaw City 8 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – Conkling Heritage Park July 8-9 Mackinac Island Festival of the Horse 4 Waterfront Events, Music & Fireworks at Dusk – Mackinaw City 8 Antique Wooden Boat Show- Hessel 4 Straits Area Concert Band 9-10 – Conkling Heritage Park 4 9-15 Cheboygan County Fair – Cheboygan Mackinaw City Woman’s Club Strawberry Social – Marina Lawn www.cheboyganfair.com 4 Summer Day in Paradise – Carp Lake/Paradise Lake – 11 Lights Out Across the Straits; Lights Out Across the Bay – Breakfast, 8-11; Flea market, 9-?; Lunch/Beer tent, 12-4; Street Headlands International Dark Sky Park Parade, 1; Flotilla on the Lake 7pm- Sponsored by the Paradise www.emmetcounty.org Lake Association 11 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 7 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 15 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – 9 Waterways Festival - Cheboygan Conkling Heritage Park 10-12 2nd Annual Mustang Stampede-Sat, Music- MAVB- 15 Churchill Classic - Cheboygan Mackinaw City 14-15 Goldwing Riders- St Ignace 11 Cheboygan Arts Council Annual Art Show, Festival Square, 15 11th Annual Churchill Classic – Cheboygan 10am-4 pm – Cheboygan www.cnbismybank.com 11-14 Chicago to Mackinac Island Yacht Race- Mackinac Island 22 Corvette Crossroads Auto Show 26th Annual 11-17 Michigander Bike Tour – Leave Mackinaw City on the 11th (7 pm, Parade) – Mackinaw Crossings Mall arrive back to MC on the 17th – Mackinaw City www.michigantrails.org/michigander-bike-tour-0 22 Coffman’s Annual Case Knife Show- Central Ave MACKINAW TODAY 2015 5 Straits Area Calendar of Events Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, St. Ignace, Carp Lake, Indian River & Cheboygan

Summer Arts & Crafts Show Pageant Lilac Festival Mackinac Island Mackinaw City Winterfest Cheboygan

22 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm Mackinac Island – Conkling Heritage Park Trunk or Treat & Haunted Woods – St. Ignace 22-23 Mackinaw Premier Arts & Craft Show, Saturday 8am-7pm, Grand Bridal Expo at Castle Farms in Charlevoix Sunday 10am-3pm – Mackinaw City www.castlefarms.com 22-23 Pow Wow/Rendezvous- St Ignace November 25 Straits Area Concert Band - 8pm – Conkling Heritage Park 14 St. Anthony’s Holiday Expo – Mackinaw City 21-23 Mackinac Island Fudge Festival 27 Christmas Craft Show – Indian River 29 Music in Mackinaw – “TBA” – 8 pm – December Conkling Heritage Park 5 Christmas in Mackinaw – Heritage Village Santa at the Castle – www.castlefarms.com September 5-6 Arts & Crafts Dockside-St. Ignace 6 DALMAC Bike Tour– Bridge Crossing 8am-11am - Mackinaw City 7 State St. Bridge Walk - Cheboygan 7 58th Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk - St. Ignace to Mackinaw City 11-12 Hopps of Fun- MAVB- Mackinaw City NO CLOSING COSTS! 11-12 8th Annual Owosso Tractor Parts Antique Tractor Bridge Mortgages & Commercial Loans Crossing Fri 10 am and St Ignace Show TBA 8 Mile Run/Walk – Mackinac Island Really. 18-20 Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show – St. Ignace 19 Annual Big Truck Parade of Lights through St. Ignace NO Closing Costs means & Mackinaw City at dusk NO Costs for 19-20 Big Mac Fall Shoreline Scenic Bike Tour & Sunday Ride • Appraisals • Mortgage Policy of Title Insurance Across Mackinac Bridge – Mackinaw City • Title Company Closings 25 Mackinaw Community Cash Bash Raffle – Audie’s • Surveys 25-27 Troop Mackinaw (Girl Scouts) - Mackinaw City • Credit Reports www.troopmackinaw.com • Flood Certification October • Recordings 3 Trek the Mighty Mac- parade over Mac Bridge Cheboygan • Onaway • Mackinaw City • Pellston • Indian River • Alanson • Gaylord • Rogers City • Petoskey • Coming soon! 9-10 Fort Fright: Colonial Michilimackinac www.mackinacparks.com 9-11 Great Pumpkin Hunt- Chamber of Commerce – Mackinaw City   9-12 US 23 Discovery Tour, Celebrate Columbus Day    & “Chart Your Own Course” www.us23heritageroute.org Dam Site Inn 9-18 Fall Shopper Festival - Mackinaw City Country Dining and Cocktails with a Panoramic View 10 7th Annual Fall Colors Bridge Race- MAVB     Rail Run 100 – Gaylord to Mackinaw City www.trailscouncil.org Chicken Dinners   10 Fall Colors Fireworks over the Marina- MAVB      11 Mackinac State Historic Parks sites close for the season 14 Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Dinner- “Neath the Birches Delicious Steaks & Seafood 24 Triple Fright Night – Headlands Dark Sky Park, “A Wonderful Staff... A Great Experience” McGulpin Point   Lighthouse, Heritage Village – Mackinaw City  24 7th Annual Headlands Challenge – 8-10pm –       Headlands International Dark Sky Park www.emmetcounty.org     Great Turtle Half Marathon & 5.7 Mile Run/Walk – 6 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 U.S. Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw open for tours he U.S.Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw Lakes’ most recognizable vessels because of T(WAGB-83) was decommissioned on its “half-football” shape, called Cheboygan June 10, 2006, and made its final voyage home for 62 years while it broke ice on the on June 21 of that year to its new berth in to allow ships to pass through. its namesake port of Mackinaw City. When the Coast Guard decommissioned it in 2006, the vessel was moved to Macki - naw City for use as a museum ship. The vessel is now open to the general public for tours, beginning in May. Visitors will see how the men and women of the Mackinaw lived and worked, as everything the ship needed to operate as an icebreaker is still aboard and in place. Tours allow vis - Going Up Across itors to see the mess deck, the engine room, the bridge of the ship and more. St. Ignace: America’s third oldest city The ship is located at the end of the old “The 290-foot-long vessel was built dur - SS Chief Wawatam Railroad Dock, just o vacation to the Straits area Rock , which is three miles north ing World War II in order to enable south of the Shepler Ferry Dock. A Michi - Nis complete without a visit to of St. Ignace, just off I-75 at exit freighters to carry raw materials on the gan Historical Marker approved by the St. Ignace, America’s third oldest 348. This rock formation rises al - lakes year-round,” said Department of His - Michigan Historical Commission marks city. most 200 feet above sea level and tory, Arts and Libraries Director William the location of the Railroad Dock. Both Just getting to this neighbor to provides those who climb to the Anderson. “Iron ore and other products sites have been designated as historic and the north is an adventure, as the top with a unique perspective of needed by factories producing weapons for will share the marker. 5-mile drive across the Mackinac Mackinac Island and the Straits the war were transported when the lakes This year, the ship will open for tours in Bridge is worth every penny of area. The site is believed to have were frozen with the help of the Mackinaw. mid-May. Adults are $11, children 6 to 17 the $4 toll. Views of Mackinac Is - been a lookout point for the After the war the Mackinaw continued to are $6 and children 5 and under are free. land and the entrance to both Ojibwa Indians and early settlers. play a vital role in Great Lakes commerce.” For more information, call 231-436-9825 peninsulas from the top of this One word of caution, while the The original Mackinaw, one of the Great or visit www.themackinaw.org . expansive landmark and trans - hike to the top is relatively short, portation marvel are excellent. it is fairly demanding. Like Mackinaw, St. Ignace has a Other visitors might be in - rich and varied past including trigued by the Mystery Spot . Ad - British, French and Indian her - vertised as having been voted itage. There are many shops, mu - Michigan’s most unusual attrac - seums and sights to see, so here is tion, guided tours are provided just a sampling of what you’ll find through an area where gravity waiting for you in St. Ignace: seems to have gone haywire. • The Museum of Ojibwa Culture Mini-golf, zip lines and a maze in in Marquette Mission Park is a the woods are also offered. The National Historic Landmark in Mystery Spot is located five miles downtown St. Ignace, next to the west on US-2. Chamber of Commerce. The mu - Finally, for those looking for a seum contains a rich collection of little Vegas-style excitement, visit archaeology and history of a 17th any of the casinos in the area. century Huron Indian Village, Most offer gaming, dining and Father Marquette’s French Jesuit entertainment. Mission, and local Ojibwa Like Mackinaw, St. Ignace also (Chippewa) Indian traditions and schedules a number of special contemporary culture. The mu - events throughout the year. seum is open daily from Memo - Check with the St. Ignace Cham - rial Day weekend until early ber of Commerce for any addi - October and there is an admis - tional information by calling sion fee. 1-800-970-8717 or visit www.sti - Open daily at 9:00 a.m. • Fort deBuade Indian Museum gnace.com on the Internet. contains an impressive collection Mid-May through Mid-October of artifacts from the late 17th cen - tury. Included are historical pieces from the French fort that ICEBREAKER MACKINAW was built to guard the men who MARITIME MUSEUM made their living in the fur trade. Much of the museum concen - 131 S. Huron Ave. trates on presenting the pre-con - tact period and early French, Mackinaw City, MI 49701 British and American colonial pe - 231-436-9825 riods. Located on State Street, there is a small admission fee. Once you’ve gotten your fill of www.themackinaw.org museums, check out a true “tourist destination” at Castle The Fort Michilimackinac PagMeACKINaAW TOnDAY 20t 15 7 A re-enactment of events of the attack on British troops by the American Indians

Story Mike Fornes Photos by Jerry Pond

ho would have known more than 250 years ago that an event on the Wshores of the would one day become commemo - rated as the longest-running free attraction in the state of Michigan? The Fort Michilimackinac Pageant, a re-enactment of events that took place at the Straits of Mackinac from 1715 until June 2, 1763, tells a story that culminates in an attack by American Indians upon British troops at the fort that has been re-constructed in its original location by Mackinac State Historic Parks. This year will be the 252nd anniversary of the famed battle at the fort. The show will be performed at 3:30 p.m. Saturday and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday and Monday, Memorial Day. The 2015 edition of the pageant — now in its 53rd year — will again feature a cast of a sizable portion of Mackinaw City’s entire population of 878 plus another 200 re-enactors who come from other areas of Michigan and several neighboring states to participate in the colorful event at Colonial Michilimackinac.

The highlight of each year’s performance is the bag - gatiway game, the ruse by which the Indians gained entry to the fort held by the British on June 2, 1763. The game, a predecessor of modern-day lacrosse, was played in a lawless, violent manner that amused and entertained the British soldiers.

At Mackinaw City, the pageant is a family tradition that boasts four gen - erations of involvement among some cast members. There will be mem - bers of this year’s show who were in the very first performance in 1962. The action begins each day with a fashion show 30 minutes prior to the start of the Pageant, narrated to display cultural differences in authentic period wear. Participants dress as American Indians, French or British colonials or soldiers, and voyageurs. The Michilimackinac Voyageurs and Spirits of the North are the two major groups who have participated in the roles of voyageur, trader, trap - per and American Indians. In the history of the Fort Michilimackinac Pageant there have been many changes. Although the basic story of the Pageant has remained the same throughout the many years of its presentation, changes in the script and action have reflected changing attitudes toward the cultures por - trayed. Adaptations have also been made to make the Pageant more his - torically authentic. The recurring theme of all Pageant participants is to remain faithful to the spirit of history and honor those whose stories make up the events of the Pageant. The highlight of each year’s performance is the baggatiway game, the ruse by which the Indians gained entry to the fort held by the British on June 2, 1763. The game, a predecessor of modern-day lacrosse, was played in a lawless, violent manner that amused and entertained the British sol - diers. The spectators to the match were hated by the native players, who had been denied ammunition for the trade guns they obtained through bartering for furs. By intentionally throwing a small stuffed leather ball over the fort’s wall as though it was part of the game, the Indians hoped to attack the garrison at Michilimackinac. On the third try, a plan was en - acted to rush the gate as native women brandished tomahawks, knives and small arms from beneath their blankets and clothing. A decisive victory re - sulted in the deaths of nearly two dozen British. The Indians later aban - doned the fort they fought to possess, and American forces decided to rebuild the stronghold high atop a Mackinac Island bluff. There is no charge to any of the pageant performances or accompanying events. A free will offering is taken up before the performances and dona - tions are used to develop authentic clothing and props. Audiences annually travel from throughout America to see the show, yet many locals have no idea it exists or have never attended the free event, or - ganizers say. 8 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 A chance to view history...

water just west of Alexander Henry reachable in the summertime only by Park, in the shadow of the Mackinac boat or in winter by snowmobile There are 22 in the Bridge. across the frozen lake. The light was built in 1892 and Driving south from Mackinaw City Straits helping to guide ships, and served primarily as a navigational aid along US-23, you will find a few more while not all are in operation today, for the ferries transporting people and interesting and easily viewable lights. vehicles between Mackinaw City and Two of them are located in the city of many can still be seen from either St. Ignace. Cheboygan. Although access to the in - the comfort of your car or on one of When the Mackinac Bridge was terior of these structures is limited to opened in 1957, there was no longer a summer weekends, taking a good the unique lighthouse cruises need for a lighthouse in the vicinity photo on a sunny, fall day is another because navigators began using the simple alternative. bridge as a reference point. One of the lights is called the The light is now owned by the state Cheboygan Crib Light. It was built to and falls under the jurisdiction of the guard the entrance to the Cheboygan Mackinac State Historical Parks. That River and performed that function for organization, in conjunction with local a number of years. and regional agencies, have applied When the light was made redun - for and already received some grant dant by modern technology, the Coast money to begin the process of upgrad - Guard gave the structure to the City of ing and restoring the facility. The pub - Cheboygan. In 1986, the light was re - lic can now tour the inside of the Old located on shore when it threatened to Mackinac Point Lighthouse for the topple over at its previous location and first time since 1990, which is under - now sits in Gordon Turner Park near going a complete restoration. the river. Light may be the The other light in Cheboygan, the most viewed lighthouse in Michigan. River Front Range Light, was built in Perched at the end of a sandy point, 1880 and rises up from the roofline of the distinctive red and white structure a white two-story house near the ma - faces nearby Mackinac Island and is in rina on the Cheboygan River. full view of the dozens of ferry boats There are also three other lights that are packed with tourists commut - near Cheboygan. ing back and forth from the island. One of them is the Cheboygan Light The light was built in 1895 and ben - Ruins at Cheboygan , which efited from a major restoration project is located four miles east of the city off completed in the mid-1980s. Listed on US-23. the National Historic Register of The other two structures, the Four - Places, the Round Island Light is teen Foot Shoal Light and the Poe

Spectacle Reef Round Island Light Lighthouse

n a calm day in the Straits, it can Currently, there is a lot of interest in Obe hard to imagine a fierce storm lighthouses, and many people are lashing the lakes with high winds and working to protect older lighthouses. rain. In Mackinaw City’s case, that means For mariners throughout the years, working to restore the Old Mackinac rough conditions on the big lakes have Point Lighthouse, preserving other made sailing through this area a chal - area lighthouses and offering informa - lenging prospect. tion to the public and daytrips to But the sailors haven’t been without nearby lighthouses. help. There are 22 lighthouses in the Visitors here quickly learn there are Straits helping to guide ships, and more than 100 lighthouses in Michi - while not all are in operation today, gan and many of them are easy to see many can still be seen from either the on a day’s outing from Mackinaw City. comfort of your car or on one of the A self-guided auto tour of these old unique lighthouse cruises offered by lifesaving facilities should begin right Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry Com - here in town with the Old Mackinac pany. Point Light. It’s located along the MACKINAW TODAY 2015 9 exciting lighthouse tours

riety of vantage points along the and White Shoal. from Mackinaw City, but the first few St. Helena shores of Huron and Michigan. Waugoshance Lighthouse has been of the season this year will depart from Island Light St. Helena, which is owned and has long abandoned, but the structure can St. Ignance. been restored by the Great Lakes still be seen when hiking at the far The three-hour tours include nar - Lighthouse Keepers Association and western end of , rated encounters with at least five is on the National Historic Register at Waugoshance Point. The light was lighthouses, depending on which of Places, is only a mile off the north once used for WWII naval gunnery cruise is chosen. Extended four- and shore of , seven miles practice, and efforts are currently un - five-hour cruises are sometimes of - west of the Mackinac Bridge. The derway to stabilize it. White Shoal fered as well. Call 231-436-5023 for Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers As - light is also visible from the shoreline more details on this unique way to see sociation offers several tours to this in Wilderness State Park. lighthouses. light station during the summer, with For those that desire to see the Additional information about information available at its Web site, lights up close, Shepler’s Mackinac Is - Michigan lighthouses may be obtained www.gllka.com . Otherwise, access is land Ferry Company offers lighthouse from the Mackinaw City Visitor’s Bu - limited to those who arrive by private cruises throughout the summer and reau and the Great Lakes Lighthouse boat. into the fall. A total of 40 cruises will Keepers Association. Further west of the bridge are two be offered starting in June and run - more lighthouses — Waugoshance ning into September. Most depart

Cheboygan Crib Light

Reef Light, which are sitting in the wa - ters of Lake Huron, can also be seen from the park. The Fourteen Foot Shoal Light is about a half-mile off the shoreline of the . The light was never manned because the Coast Guard used a radio beacon from nearby Poe Reef to control the lamp and fog signals. Two miles from the shore is the . The waters are very dan - gerous around this light because of massive rocks near the structure. Many other lighthouses — includ - ing significantly publicized St. Helena Island Light — can be seen from a va -

The Cheboygan Crib Light was built to guard the entrance to the Cheboygan River and performed that function for a number of years. Cheboygan River Front Range Light

Extended Summer Hours Last load 8pm - closed at 9pm 117 West Depeyster, Mackinaw City • 231-436-7000 10 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 State Historic Parks...

ackinaw City and the surround - Michilimackinac was alternately rendered Old Mackinac Point Light - experience. It features audiovisual Ming area is full of history, and home to French soldiers and British house obsolete. Old Mackinac Point displays and a variety of original arti - there’s no better way to learn more Redcoats, as well as French fur Light Station was closed and declared facts to tell the store of the numerous about the past than by visiting Mack - traders. was alter - U.S. government surplus property. shipwrecks that dot the Straits of inac State Historic Parks. Three of the nately home to British Redcoats and In 1960, the Mackinac Island State Mackinac. parks’ sites, Colonial Michilimack - American soldiers. Mill Creek, now Park Commission, the governing body The lighthouse is now fully accessi - inac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, of Mackinac State Historic Parks, pur - ble to most visitors, including the 50- and Historic Mill Creek Discovery provided sawn lumber for many of the chased the property from the U.S. foot lighthouse tower, where guests Park , are located in or near Mackinaw historic buildings on Mackinac Is - General Services Administration and can enjoy the majestic view of Lakes City. Fort Mackinac and the Richard land. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse incorporated it into Michilimackinac Huron and Michigan and the Mack - and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art served as a beacon to navigators State Park. From 1972 to 1990, the inac Bridge. Interesting and exciting Museum, is a ferry-ride away on through the Straits of Mackinac for 65 lighthouse was opened as the center - exhibits highlighting the history and Mackinac Island. Five Mackinac Is - years and the Richard and Jane piece of a maritime museum, called operation of the station are located land historic downtown buildings, in - Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum is Michilimackinac Maritime Park, until throughout the building. Original ar - cluded with Fort Mackinac home to a wide array of decorative the Commission closed the maritime tifacts and hands-on elements for admission, offer live interpretation of and contemporary art. park due to falling attendance. children and adults are also available. 18th and 19th-century domestic arts Each site strives to give visitors a In 1999, Mackinac State Historic Hands-on exhibits include Nighttime and an insight into blacksmithing, the glimpse into what life was like there, Parks kicked off a focused campaign Navigation, where visitors stand in a fur trade and groundbreaking med - and new attractions and events are to restore and reopen the light station. darkened pilot house and select a ical history. often being added. Activities such as More than $300,000 in grants, dona - course based on the lights they see In addition, Mackinac Island State music demonstrations, musket and tions and revenue from retail sales in through the windows and reference Park, which encompasses 1,800 acres rifle firings, cannon firings and nature the lighthouse’s small museum store, maps; Pop-Up Lighthouses, which or more than 80 percent of the island, programs are offered consistently located in the lighthouse’s fog signal highlights the different day markings offers scenic beauty and geological throughout the season by costumed building, funded the restoration. of regional lighthouses; and Straits formations such as Arch Rock and historic interpreters. Beginning June 12, 2004, the public Pilot, featuring a large, 1890s map of Sugar Loaf. Following is a brief history of the was able to tour the interior of the Old the Straits of Mackinac and magnetic Colonial Michilimackinac, Historic parks: Mackinac Point Lighthouse for the boats for children to move. Mill Creek Discovery Park, Fort first time since 1990. A landscaping Visitors can also see original uni - Mackinac the Mackinac Art Museum Old Mackinac Point project in 2007 added 70 trees and forms, furniture and equipment from and the historic downtown buildings, shrubs to the grounds, and the fog sig - the station, including the original Mackinac Island State Park and Old Lighthouse nal building has undergone restora - Fresnel lens that helped to light the Mackinac Point Lighthouse together Construction at Old Mackinac Point tion. The barn on the grounds will Straits of Mackinac for 65 years. The attract nearly 1 million visitors each in Mackinaw City began in 1890 with also be restored in the future. furnished keeper’s sitting and dining year, of which more than 375,000 are a fog signal building; the lighthouse “Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse rooms and kitchen have all been re - visitors at its paid admission living followed in 1892, and operated con - and the other buildings on the site tell stored to their 1910 appearance. history sites, making Mackinac State tinuously until 1957. Located within a both the story of the lighthouse, the Guides in historic costumes are sta - Historic Parks among the most popu - public park that would later become keepers and their families, but also of tioned within the lighthouse to assist lar historical parks in the nation. The Michilimackinac State Park, the light - the shipwrecks that occurred in the visitors, provide historical informa - sites have been archaeologically ex - house has always been a uniquely ac - Straits of Mackinac,” said Mackinac tion, conduct tours of the grounds and plored, historically preserved and cessible and popular tourist State Historic Parks Deputy Director lead small groups up into the tower. carefully renovated or reconstructed. attraction. Steve Brisson. Admission revenue is one way Mack - The parks offer costumed, historic in - In 1957, the navigation aids high on A new exhibit, the Straits of Mack - inac State Historic Parks raises money terpreters at their living history sites the towers of the Mackinac Bridge, inac Shipwreck Museum, is now part to continue to restore and renovate during much of the season. Colonial just a few hundred feet to the west, of the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse the lighthouse, in addition to dona - MACKINAW TODAY 2015 11 Hands on history comes to life everyday

Fort Michilimacknac Pageant

tions. was established nearby. The fort was by Americans during the American Fort Mackinac “Hopefully, people will be inspired closed by Commandant Antoine Revolution, began moving the fort to The fort on Mackinac Island came by the history, charm and current con - Cadillac in 1697. The Jesuits remained nearby Mackinac Island in 1779. into existence because of British mili - dition of this landmark structure to until 1705, when they abandoned and What they didn’t move they burned. tary planning. With the American donate funds to continue the restora - burned the mission. Both the Jesuits The old fort almost faded into obliv - Revolutionary War under way, the tion,” Brisson noted. and military returned on a permanent ion, once even serving as a parking lot British, fearing they could not defend Admission to Old Mackinac Point basis in 1715. Finding that the for visitors to Michilimackinac State the mainland Fort Michilimackinac Lighthouse is $7.50 for adults and had moved their village to the south Park before modern day archeology against attack by the rebels, decided $4.50 for children 5 to 12. Children 4 side of the Straits, the new mission and reconstruction began. to move the fort to Mackinac Island. and under get in free. and fort were built there by the Today, visitors tour the rebuilt fort British Commandant Patrick Sinclair Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is French in 1715. This year marks the and fur trading village as they relive directed the move of the fort from the located on Straits Avenue, approxi - tricentenntial since the establishment history. Among other things, they may mainland to the island. What wasn’t mately 200 yards east of the Mack - of Fort Michilimackinac. witness the re-enactment of an 18th moved was burned. inac Bridge. Take exit 339 off I-75 to The fort, with the rest of New century French wedding, watch ar - The fort and island became United get there. France, passed into British hands fol - chaeologists at work, see and hear States territory as a result of the lowing the Seven Years War. The musket and cannon demonstrations, American victory in the revolution. British occupied the fort to protect a tour a variety of authentically recon - Colonial However, it took 13 years for Ameri - thriving community of fur traders, ar - structed buildings and view artifacts can troops to arrive and finally take Michilimackinac tisans and soldiers. There were as discovered on the site. control of the fort from the British. Located on the shore of Lake Michi - many as 30 log houses inside the fort’s Admission to Colonial Michilimack - The latter were reluctant to leave the gan in the Straits of Mackinac, Colo - 20-foot-high stockade and several inac is $11 for adults and $6.50 for island, as British merchants contin - nial Michilimackinac, originally hundred outside the grounds. youth between the ages of 5 and 12. ued to dominate fur trading, even in known as Fort Michilimackinac, While the French had a good rela - Children 4 and under get in free. The American territory. stands as a historical treasure honor - tionship with members of Indian Michilimackinac Combo ticket is also War broke out between the United ing the French soldiers and fur traders tribes in the area, the British did not. available for those who want to visit States and Great Britain in the sum - and the British Redcoats and villagers Friction worsened over time and, in both Colonial Michilimackinac and mer of 1812. Under the cover of dark - who once made the fort one of the 1763, Native American tribes, as part Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. The ness, a 300-man force of British most important fur-trading centers in of the larger Pontiac’s Rebellion, cap - cost is $16.50 for adults and $9.50 for soldiers and Native American allies the west. tured the fort, killing many of the sol - children 5 to 12. Contact the parks by landed on the north shore of Mack - The Jesuit mission of St. Ignace was diers and driving the British from the calling 231-436-4100 for more infor - inac Island. American soldiers, about established on the north side of the area. A year later, American Indians mation or to become a member of 30, were completely surprised and Straits in 1671. In the 1680s, and pos - returned the fort to the British. The Mackinac Associates. outnumbered by the British invasion. sibly as late as 1690, Fort DuBaude British, fearing an attack on the fort They quickly surrendered without a 12 MACKINAW TODAY 2015

Europe. Millions of dollars worth of idents of Mackinac Island. Cannon Blast furs passed through Mackinac Island Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, in the 1820s. Today, guests can visit established in 1790, was the Straits the American Fur Company Store and first industrial complex. It has been Dr. Beaumont Museum, where a his - faithfully restored, and in 1982 it toric interpreter will explain the im - opened to the public. portance of the site as a memorial to Today, visitors can see an authentic, Dr. ’s medical re - water-powered sawmill, British search, in addition to interpreting the Workshop and Millwright’s House, all role of the American Fur Company restored to their 18th-century charac - Store on Mackinac Island and its im - ter. Costumed, historic interpreters portance to the local economy. It is demonstrate the water-powered one of five Mackinac State Historic sawmill, as well as the hand-saw tech - Parks’ historic downtown buildings niques of cutting lumber in the sawpit open to the public. area. Three-and-a-half miles of hand - After the decline of the fur trade, the icapped accessible nature trails are fishing industry thrived as whitefish also available, as is the Creatures of and lake trout were shipped all over the Forest Nature Program. Many the continent. Trade routes which new features to the site, all geared to - once carried canoes filled with furs wards harnessing an even greater ap - now served as shipping lanes for a preciation for nature, made their fight following a single warning shot partment headquarters on Mackinac growing fleet of schooners and steam - debut in 2008. Historic Mill Creek by the British. By December 1814, the Island and by the 1820s, the fur trade boats that connected centrally-located will again offer “The Adventure Tour” war was over. American peace nego - was flourishing. Furs from the com - Mackinac Island with its markets. this year, consisting of a 40-foot-high tiators accomplished what their pany’s winter camps in Illinois, Michi - Fort Mackinac and many hundreds Nature Trail Climbing Wall, 165-foot- troops failed to do, as the Treaty of gan, Wisconsin and Minnesota flowed of thousands more visited Mackinac long Forest Canopy Bridge, 50-foot- Ghent restored the island and Fort to Mackinac every summer. Here, on Island State Park attractions. At the high Treetop Discovery Tower and Mackinac to the . Mackinac Island’s Market Street, the fort, visitors might observe an 1880s 425-foot-long Eagle’s Flight Zip Line. John Jacob Astor established the furs were counted, sorted and baled American soldier loading and firing a The Adventure Tour costs $8 in addi - American Fur Company northern de - for shipment to the East Coast and cannon, walk through some of Michi - tion to park admission. “The Adven - gan’s oldest buildings and talk with ture Tour” is also a park naturalist historic interpreters in authentic cos - guided nature tour. The interactive, Old Mssion Point Lighthouse tumes. hands-on children’s water power sta - Fort Mackinac offers a variety of tion provides interactive fun for chil - special events throughout the year. dren by harnessing water to power Admission into Fort Mackinac is $12 18th-century water wheel replicas. In for adults and $7 for children 5 to 12. addition, the Forest Friend’s Play Area Kids 4 and under get in free. Admis - offers an ideal spot for children to sion to Fort Mackinac also includes play, complete with large sculpted an - admission to Historic Downtown imals, some of which are suitable for Mackinac. climbing. The park is comprised of 625 acres of scenic beauty and trails Historic Mill Creek that wind along Mill Creek, one of which leads to a beaver dam. Discovery Park Admission to Mill Creek is $8 for Back on the mainland, Robert adults and $5.00 for children 5 to 12. Campbell began to harness energy Kids 4 and under are free. Mill Creek from Mill Creek by constructing a is located about four miles south of water-powered sawmill. More than Mackinaw City on US-23. two centuries ago, Campbell and his For more information on any of the workers used the technology to pro - sites, call 906-847-3328 or duce sawn lumber for the nearby res - visit www.MackinacParks.com .

Historic Mill Creek Historic Mill Creek MACKINAW TODAY 2015 13 58th Annual Mackinaw or Bridge Walk

hose visiting the Straits area dur - runners alike, with a Governor’s Mackinac? Ting Labor Day should not miss Council on Physical Fitness Jog this year’s 58th annual Mackinac slated to precede the walk for pre- Bridge Walk scheduled for Sept. 7, qualified, pre-registered participants Which is correct? 2015. only. Between 40,000 and 60,000 peo - More information on the jog is avail - ple typically make the five-mile trek able at www.michiganfitness.org and egardless of where you’re from or learned about grammar in grade across the Mighty Mac during the clicking on “Mackinac Bridge Labor Rwhether this is your first time to school, but that’s the way it is. event. Day Run” or by contacting the Gov - the area, one item that may need to be The Indian name for the area, ernor’s Council by calling 517-347- cleared up is the correct way to pro - Michinnimakinong, was changed to 7891. nounce MACKINAC. Michilimackinac when the French ar - “For those of you who have never MACKINAW, is easy; you just did rived in 1715. Even though the French been up there to this bridge walk — it. But, MACKINAC seems to give spelled it with an “AC,” they still pro - it is unbelievable. It is so breathtak - many people trouble, who no matter nounced it “AW.” ing,” Granholm has commented on what they are told, want to pronounce The British arrived and took over the event. “You’ve got the sun rising it “MACKINACK.” the fort in 1761, decided to change the over the Straits of Mackinac, over While that is the way it looks, pro - spelling to “AW,” and eventually the this bridge. You look down through nouncing it like that is a quick way to name was shortened to Mackinaw. the grate, and you see the Straits of distinguish yourself as a true “fudgie.” The French kept their “AC” though, Mackinac. It is a beautiful thing.” So, to save you that hardship, a quick and everything north of Mackinaw Occasionally, the weather impacts history lesson may clear up any lin - City uses that spelling. Mackinaw City this annual event. The 2001 Labor gering pronunciation disasters. is one of the only references that uses Day Bridge Walk was one of only two For starters, everything — from the the “AW” ending. walks that fell far below the typical Straits, to the island, to the bridge, to So, regardless of the spelling, the turnout. The event started late and the town — that contains either pronunciation of “AC” is the same as ended early (by 9 a.m.) due to high Mackinac or Mackinaw, is pro - “AW” — only the peninsulas that each Labor Day Bridge Walk winds and adverse weather condi - nounced with an “AW” sound at the spelling represents are different. tions. Only about 30,000 people end. That goes against what you Many families have made a tradi - walked across the Mackinac Bridge tion out of traveling to northern during this abbreviated walk. Michigan every Labor Day weekend Normally, when weather conditions to participate in the annual bridge are favorable, walkers occupy half of walk. The event is unique because the bridge until mid-morning on the Labor Day is the only day of the year day of the event. After about 9:30 BIG STONE BAY that pedestrians are allowed to walk a.m., three lanes are dedicated to ve - across the Mackinac Bridge. hicles and one lane stays open to The event was first held in June of walkers. No one is allowed to begin FISHERY, INC.Est. 1983 1958, in connection with the dedica - walking after 11 a.m. tion of the bridge. How - Featuring... Fresh & Smoked ever, the follow - ing year the Great Lakes Fish ~ Assorted Seafood walk was “We Pack To Travel!” changed to Labor Day, Homemade Maple Syrup when it has taken place ever Located on the Corner of Stimpson Rd. & U.S.-23 Mackinaw City since. The move Summer Hours: 8 to 6 ~ 7 days a week • Winter Hours: 9-3 ~ Closed Sundays to Labor Day may have been (231) 436-4144 an effort to ex - tend the tourism season, which for - The walk is free, but bus trans - merly dwindled much sooner than it portation is provided for a $5 per does today. person charge from Mackinaw City to Michigan’s governors have led the St. Ignace. The governor’s party usu - annual walk since 1958, a precedent ally starts the walk at 7 a.m. set by G. Mennen “Soapy” Williams Those who complete the bridge shortly after the bridge opened. In walk receive a numbered certificate 2003, then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm of completion on the southern end. participated in the event for her first The numbers may match numbers time as governor and covered the dis - displayed in the store windows of tance in about 47 minutes, jogging Mackinaw City or the city of St. most of the way. Some said she com - Ignace, and prizes are awarded to pleted her first crossing faster than winners. any of her predecessors, but others For more information on the 58th argued that records were too incom - Annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge plete to declare a champion. Walk, call the Mackinac Bridge Au - Since 2004, the Labor Day Bridge thority at 906-643-7600 or visit the Walk has been open to walkers and Web site www.mackinacbridge.org . 14 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 Mackinac Island... a favorite summer destination

Grand Hotel Room

stone’s throw from Michigan’s also allow riders to bring their own Atwo peninsulas, Mackinac Island bicycles aboard at an additional cost is a favorite summer destination. for use on Mackinac Island. An 8.5- Although Mackinaw City has mile long road hugs the perimeter of plenty to offer, visitors should also the island for those who want to view make a point of traveling to Mack - the Straits of Mackinac, the Mack - inac Island, no matter the season. At - inac Bridge, the Upper Peninsula tracting almost one million people to and Lake Huron on their bicycles. its shores every summer, it is one of Plenty of stopping points are avail - the most well-known tourist destina - able for those who wish to catch their tions in the Midwest. breath or take some photographs Mackinac Island is famous for its along the way. Mackinac Island’s in - abundance of fudge shops, lack of terior also offers an array of paved motorized transportation and pictur - roads, dirt trails and scenery which esque scenic beauty. Accessible only would otherwise be missed by those by plane or watercraft, getting there who stay on the outskirts. Do keep in is an adventure in itself. Several ferry mind that some rather significant companies operate out of Mackinaw hills could be encountered, however, City and St. Ignace, taking people and picking up a map is always a from the mainland to the island, or good idea before striking out for the Grand Hotel vice versa, in about 20 minutes. Air - day. ports in St. Ignace, Cheboygan, Pell - Seeing the island from a horse- staying at the hotel. ternet. ston and Traverse City provide air drawn carriage is another option, Fort Mackinac, much like Colonial Those who visit Mackinac Island service to Mackinac Island. with narrated tours taking riders Michilimackinac on the mainland, in the winter will find far fewer Upon arriving at Mackinac Island, past such sites as the Grand Hotel, offers reconstructed buildings, dis - tourists and a much slower pace. Al - it’s like stepping into another world. Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock, a 150- plays and demonstrations, including though ice usually prevents access by Home to about 500 year-round resi - foot tall limestone formation on the a cannon firing over the lake. Other boat, the island can still be reached dents, the population explodes when island’s east side. Many of the popu - sites of interest on Mackinac Island by air when conditions allow and approximately 3,000 summer resi - lar attractions are also accessible by include the Governor’s Mansion, sometimes even by snowmobile via dents arrive for the season. Motor - foot. Great Turtle Park and numerous an ice bridge. Only a handful of busi - ized vehicles have been banned since Lodging on Mackinac Island is shops and eateries downtown. nesses remain open for winter visi - 1898, and about 80 percent of the abundant, ranging from quaint Vic - One of the most significant sum - tors, but offer plenty of lodging and land is state-owned. Fudge is the is - torian-themed bed and breakfasts to mer events on the island is the An - dining opportunities. Winter visitors land’s primary industry, and about sprawling resorts. Not to be forgotten nual Lilac Festival, this year held on should call and arrange lodging be - 10,000 pounds of the creamy confec - is the Grand Hotel, one of the largest June 5-14. Independence Day cele - fore arrival, especially on festival tion are sold every day. and most visible landmarks that exist brations include fireworks and activ - weekends and around Valentine’s Getting around on Mackinac Is - there. Opened in 1887, the Grand ities at Fort Mackinac. More Day, when the island gets busier. Sev - land is an even more unique experi - Hotel has the longest colonial porch information on Mackinac Island at - eral restaurants and bars typically ence. Bike rental shops abound and in the world and is visited by thou - tractions can be obtained by calling keep their doors open during the provide a variety of bicycles for a sands each summer. There is a 1-800-4-LILACS or by visiting winter season as well. minimal rental fee. The ferry lines charge to access the grounds if not www.mackinacisland.com on the In - MACKINAW TODAY 2015 15 Boating in Michigan Many harbors and marinas are available to help you in your waterway journey

oating in Michigan is by far some of the best in the nation. With shoreline • Presque Isle State Harbor. Open May 15 through Sept. 15. Phone number is Bon four of the Great Lakes, 11,000 inland lakes and endless rivers to ex - 989-595-3069. plore, boating opportunities abound. • Hammond Bay State Harbor: Open May 15 through Sept. 7. Phone number Northern Michigan is no exception. To accommodate those who want to is 989-938-6291. travel the area by water, an abundance of harbors and marinas are available, • Rogers City Marina: Open May 1 through Oct. 15. Phone number is some which provide a variety of amenities and allow for online reservations to 989-734-3808. be made. • Harbor Springs Municipal Marina. Open May 1 through Oct. 15. Phone The Straits State Harbor in Mackinaw City is a fairly new, state-of-the-art number is 231-526-5355. marina which opened in 2009 and was designed with energy-saving measures • Petoskey Marina. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Phone number in mind. The 130-plus slip facility features wind generators to provide some of is 231-347-6691. the marina’s power and many other “green” facets within its buildings. All dates were obtained from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Amenities include restrooms, showers, laundry, electricity, water, pump out, website and should be confirmed by phone. Reservations for many of these gasoline, diesel, boat launch (fee required), fishing pier, dog run, grills, picnic marinas can be made by calling 1-800-44-PARKS, or online by going to shelters, rubbish receptacles and recycle bins. www.midnrreservations.com. The Straits State Harbor is open from May 15 through Sept. 30 and can be reached by calling 231-436-5326. Some of the other local facilities for boaters include, but are not limited to: • Cheboygan County Marina. Open May 6 through Oct. 15. Phone number is 627-4944. • Cheboygan Municipal Marina. Open June 15 through Sept. 10. Phone number is 627-9931. • Mackinaw City Municipal Marina. Open May 15 through Oct. 15. Phone number is 436-5269. • Mackinac Island State Harbor. Open May 15 through Oct. 18. Phone number is 906-847-3561. • Straits State Harbor. Open May 15 through Sept. 30. Phone number is 231-436-5326. • St. Ignace Marina. Open May 15 through Sept. 20. Phone number is 906-643-8131. • Bois Blanc Island Marina. Open May 31 through Sept. 1. Phone number is 231-634-7354. Lakeside Dining Bois Blanc Island For over 90 years visitors have enjoyed our location Experience True Northern Michigan Voted Northern Michigan’s Best Steak Enjoy Fresh Fish and Quality Steaks on our Lakeside Patio and Screened-in Porch Overlooking Pristine Douglas Lake

View of Bois Blanc Island from the Round Island Lighthouse Sundays ois Blanc Island (usually refered to as “Bob-Lo”) is located in the Straits Bof Mackinac, at the top of the “hand” that is Michigan. Live Outdoor Bois Blanc Island can be reached by ferry from Cheboygan. From the Is - land’s west end, the Mackinac Bridge and Mackinac Island are visible, and 231-539-8588 from the north shore, a person can barely see the Upper Peninsula. Music The largest settlement on Bois Blanc Island is Pointe aux Pins; other cot - tages are scattered among the trees. There are several inland lakes. Ameni - ties are few, but include a general store, two chapels, the Hoover Community Building, a post office, a tavern, an airport and the one-room 10990 Douglas Lake Road Near Pellston Between US-31 and I - 75 Pines School. Open at 5PM for Dinner • www.douglaslakebar.com 16 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 Indian River Cheboygan a visitor’s paradise

isitors come to Indian River for Mackinaw’s Neighbor Vmany reasons — to see the Cross In The Woods, the world’s largest Area has groomed and ungroomed crucifix; to stay at the trails for beginners, intermediates and State Park, which offers camping, advanced skaters and gliders. Snowmo - boating and a sandy beach; to view bilers come back to the Cheboygan area year after year and with good reason: the mighty elk in the Pigeon River more than 500 miles of groomed trails Country Forest; or to boat or fish on provide days and days of delightful ad - Burt and Mullet Lakes and the In - ventures. Downhill skiing is available at land Waterway. Nub’s Nob and Boyne Highlands, Indian River is located between which are both just 45 minutes away. Michigan’s third and fourth largest Hockey is a passion in Cheboygan and inland lakes, Burt and Mullet. It is an The Inland Waterway is Michigan’s he Cheboygan area ... what a de - a centrally-located indoor ice pavilion easy drive from Mackinaw City, longest chain of rivers and lakes. The Tlight! Cheboygan is Mackinaw provides leagues for men, women and children, as well as open skating hours. Cheboygan or Petoskey, and is conve - town of Indian River is right at the City’s larger neighbor 15 miles to the southeast — a harbor town for all sea - Skates are also available for rent for niently located along Interstate 75. heart of it! The Inland Waterway, sons, and with good reason. Cheboygan those who forget to bring a pair. Ice Fishing, boating, swimming, camp - which is more than 40 miles long, hugs the shoreline of Lake Huron and fishing is also a popular activity in ing, hiking, sunbathing, golfing and runs through Pickerel Lake, Crooked the banks of the Cheboygan River. Cheboygan as the many inland lakes in more await you in Indian River. Lake, the Crooked River, Burt Lake, Boating, fishing, dining, shopping, the area provide the perfect setting for Plenty of downtown shops offer the Indian River, , the lodging, hiking, biking, cross country a shanty or good ole’ fishin’ hole. Northern Michigan apparel, sou - Cheboygan River, and finally into skiing, snowmobiling, hunting ... it can Spectacular Spring venirs, gifts and fudge, and a deli - Lake Huron. all be found in Cheboygan. Spring is the time of new beginnings cious meal can be enjoyed at any of Indian River is also home to some Sensational Summer and that’s no exception in the Cheboy - the area’s fine restaurants. of the best fishing anywhere. Situated Summer in Cheboygan is a treat! The gan area. The woods come alive in the Indian River is home to the Cross between Burt and Mullet Lakes, In - mornings begin with glorious sunrises springtime with acres and acres of tril - In The Woods, a local landmark dian River also boasts two fine fish - that turn Lake Huron into a ribbon of lium, wild flowers and morels. The col - since 1954. The 55-foot high crucifix ing rivers running through town — color. A day at the beach or boating ors of spring are truly magnificent in was made from a single redwood the Indian River and the Sturgeon through the Inland Waterway ends the Cheboygan area: the green of the tree. The 7-ton bronze sculpture of River. The Pigeon River, along with with dinner on the water and a stroll countryside, the blue of Lake Huron, the white of the trillium and the rain - Christ was created by Marshall M. several other streams, is located close along the river. And shopping? Oh yes, shopping in Cheboygan has something bow of colors worn by spring flowers Fredericks and added to the cross in by. For those who like to fish smaller, for everyone. The downtown business paint spring in a spectacular fashion. 1959. The sculpture measures an im - more secluded lakes, several can be district on the banks of the Cheboygan No matter the season, Cheboygan is pressive 22 feet wide and 31 feet found within minutes of Indian River has a Victorian theme and in - also home to several unique attractions, high. River. From smelt to sturgeon, suck - cludes many unique specialty shops including the new U.S. Coast Guard Every year, thousands of people ers to steelhead, and almost every - complete with clothing, gifts, books cutter Mackinaw, the famous Cheboy - visit the Cross In The Woods not only thing in between, the Indian River and more. Cheboygan is also home to a gan Opera House and the informative Cheboygan County Historical Mu - to view the world’s largest crucifix, area offers something for every an - K-Mart and Wal-Mart Super Center for seum. More information can be ob - but also to attend outdoor Mass gler. convenience. Dining in the Cheboygan area offers bountiful selections — pizza, tained by calling the Cheboygan Area (weather permitting). A local outfitter offers canoe, kayak, pastas, fresh fish and steaks. Chamber of Commerce at 231-627- is open from raft and tube trips during the sum - 7183 or visiting www.cheboygan.com April through November. Visitors mer and winter on the Sturgeon Fabulous Fall can enjoy camping, boating, fishing, River. Fall in the Cheboygan area is truly and 2,000 feet of sandy frontage on The nearby Pigeon River State For - fabulous. The trees begin turning in Burt Lake. est is home to the largest free-roam - mid-September and continue through Indian River, with its location in ing elk herd east of the Mississippi. A the end of October, offering a display of color that turns the countryside into a the heart of the Inland Waterway, is map of potential elk-viewing loca - palette of fall foliage that must be cap - a mecca for boaters. tions is available. tured on film. Winding country roads with miles and miles of blazing color perfect for a car ride or biking, the con - trast of the foliage with Lake Huron or reflected in the Cheboygan River, and days filled with crisp air make Cheboy - gan the place to be in the fall. Hunters love the Cheboygan area because its Cross In The Woods: wide variety of game, wooded areas and friendly communities is just the right The Worlds Largest combination for hunting success sto - Crucifix ries.

Winter Wonderland White is the color of winter in Cheboygan. Here, winters consist of lots of white, fluffy snow and clear blue skies, with very few of those gray days and melted slush that seem to frequent many suburban areas. Strap on the cross country skis or the snow shoes and head out into miles and miles of trails. The Black Mountain Recreation MACKINAW TODAY 2015 17 Road trips through Michigan’s beautiful upper and lower peninsula and waterfowl. Visitors can walk building, Camp 33, serving as the bridges to see and hear over 200 setting. kinds of birds and 50 kinds of ani - The Lower Falls, really a series of mals. Motorists can take the 7-mile five smaller plunges, are worth a look Marshland Wildlife Drive, while hik - too, and those with a sense of adven - ers and bikers get their choice of ture can rent rowboats from the park about 70 miles of dirt and gravel to get a closer look. We recommend roads for sightseeing. For more infor - spending plenty of time at the falls, mation, stop at the visitor’s center. since the combination of rushing After that, return to M-28 and water and scenery embody what the continue heading east for about 25 north country is all about. miles until you reach M-123, then Leaving the falls, stay on M-123 turn north into the town of New - until you reach the aptly-named berry. town of Paradise, on the shores of Continue northeasterly along M- Lake Superior. Turn left at the light 123, turning off at 4 Mile Corner to and travel about 12 miles north to see as many as 30 live American Whitefish Point. road Black Bears in a natural environment From the wreck of the schooner In - at one of the largest bear ranches in vincible in 1816 to the sinking of the the entire United States — Oswald’s Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975, the Bear Ranch. Then continue on along water off Whitefish Point has always M-123 until you reach Tahquamenon been regarded as one of the most Falls State Park. dangerous sections of the vast lake. The Upper Falls are very impres - It is known as the “graveyard” of the Whether you are deep in a forest, and head west out of town on US-2. sive and quite recognizable, drop - Great Lakes. skirting one of the Great Lakes, or The drive hugs the shoreline of Lake ping nearly 50 feet in a powerful Today, the remote spot appropri - passing through rolling farmland, Michigan, and beachcombers will be rush of water and mist. The second ately features the Great Lakes Ship - this area offers plenty to keep the ad - rewarded with many fine opportuni - largest falls (after Niagara) east of wreck Museum, an intriguing facility venturous wanderer content. ties to pull off and walk the miles of the Mississippi, the Upper Falls are focusing on the tragedy and heroism With its location in the Straits of sandy stretches. The road runs Mackinac, Mackinaw City is the per - through forests and past forested fect “base camp” for a variety of road bluffs that provide the driver with trips featuring plenty of sights and numerous open looks of the water. attractions along the way. This sec - Don’t forget to visit Garlyn Zoo tion of the Mackinaw Today will when passing through the hamlet of highlight three such trips — two in Naubinway. The walk-through park the Lower Peninsula, and one “up offers plenty of live native Michigan across.” The drives can be completed wildlife in their natural habitat, in in a day, or you may wish to add ad - addition to some exotic species. Then ditional routes and stops for a longer continue the drive west on US-2. journey. When you reach Manistique, turn These are some of our favorite right and head north on M-94 until stretches of road, but we readily you reach Shingleton and M-28. admit that part of the allure of a driv - Turn left onto M-28 and head north - ing trip is just making it up as you go west to Munising, passing through along. Wetmore. Whatever method you prefer, we In Munising, stop for a narrated hope that you will find the following glass bottom boat cruise of three routes and attractions appealing. Be shipwrecks on the floor of Lake Su - sure to take your time, and savor the perior near the Pictured Rocks. Also, sites, tastes and smells that abound. leave time to visit the Pictured Rocks Happy traveling. National Lakeshore, a park located on the shoreline of Lake Superior, Eastern Upper that includes spectacular cliffs, Peninsula Loop , waterfalls and lakes. The park can be seen either by boat via a Pic - easily viewable from a couple of ob - surrounding shipping disasters on (250 miles, 1-2 days) tured Rocks cruise or by car, access - servation decks, which are accessed the lakes. ing the scenery by stopping and from the parking area by a short The area also includes a light - This tour starts with five of the hiking into scenic points. trail. One of these decks requires a house, with keepers quarters, a gift most beautiful miles in Michigan - a After leaving Munising, backtrack decent climb down (and subse - shop, a shipwreck video theater, and trip across the Mackinac Bridge. to Shingleton on M-28 and continue quently back up) a flight of steps. an observatory for migratory birds. Linking the two peninsulas, the heading east until you reach the Certain travelers may want to take The lengthy shoreline is perfect for “Mighty Mac” has been crossed by town of Seney. Once there, take a this into consideration. exploration and contemplation, and millions of visitors since its opening short detour by turning right onto If you’ve worked up an appetite, you will even be able to see the in 1957. M-77 until you reach the Seney Na - the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and rolling coastline of Ontario on a clear After paying the $4 passenger car tional Wildlife Refuge. Pub located at the Upper Falls, serves day. toll, you can enter downtown St. One of the largest in the Midwest, up a tasty meal and a selection of The featured museum attraction is Ignace by taking the first exit, or pro - this 100,000-acre sanctuary of wet - handcrafted beers. The atmosphere the Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial. ceed to the second ramp, exit 344, lands has an abundance of wildlife is rustic, with a restored logging Of the 6,000 ships lost on the Great 18 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 Lakes, the Edmund Fitzgerald ranks on the twisting stretch of asphalt. as the most tragic in terms of lost Resist that urge, since the road is sailors, 29, and tonnage. narrow, and there can be plenty of During the summer of 1995, the traffic during the peak of tourist sea - Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical son. Society, the Canadian Navy and the If you’re hungry, a stop at Legs Inn National Geographic Society raised in Cross Village or the General Store the bell of the Fitzgerald, honoring a in Good Hart is the answer. request by surviving family members M-119 eventually spills into Harbor to establish a permanent memorial at Springs, a quaint town with more Whitefish Point to remember their than its share of large houses, trendy lost loved ones. shops and eateries. The road contin - Next to the museum is the White - ues out of Harbor and meets up with fish Point Light. The original light US-31 just as you come into Petoskey. was constructed in 1849 and re - For those with limited time, this is a mained until the present tower was good place to turn left and head 35 built around 1900. The light, miles north back to Mackinaw City. and radio beacon were automated in If time isn’t a factor, turn right on 1971 and the light is the oldest active US-31, and follow it through Bay one on Lake Superior. View, and into the Gaslight District The museum is open until mid-Oc - — the heart of Petoskey’s shopping tober, and there is a small admission and dining district. fee. Continuing along US-31 south out Leaving Whitefish Point, our trip of Petoskey, the traveler soon passes heads south, back through Paradise Bay Harbor, the area’s newest and and eventually arriving at the Curley certainly richest development of Lewis Memorial Highway/Lakeshore communities. Drive. Follow this east along the lake, If you are interested in seeing eventually connecting with what’s inside, visit the Bay Harbor M-28. From there it’s a short drive Marina District, which offers upscale to I-75. shopping and dining, and is open to If you have extra time, a drive into the public. historic Sault Ste. Marie offers plenty Heading south on US-31, the route of dining and attractions. For an up- follows the Lake Michigan shoreline close look at Great Lakes freighters, into Charlevoix, another scenic vil - Home to about 5,000 people, Presque Isle Lighthouse, which at 113 be sure to visit the “Soo” Locks. lage, and on down to Traverse City, Cheboygan is an easy-going river feet is the tallest light structure on To get back to Mackinaw City, just known as the Cherry Capital of the town. the Great Lakes. It has also been fea - take I-75 south to complete this world. The road offers many views of Two attractions in Cheboygan tured on the Michigan Department memorable trip. lakes, orchards and wooded areas. worth a look are the U.S. Coast of Transportation’s state road map. For the return trip north, take Guard Ice Breaker Mackinaw, and About 100 miles south of Macki - Lake Michigan Loop M-72 (just north of Traverse City) the Opera House. naw lies the city of Alpena, which sits During the long, cold winter, the on Thunder Bay - a particularly (210 miles, 1-2 days) west to Kalkaska, and then turn left at US-131 for the drive north back to ship usually leaves port for a week at treacherous body of water, which has a time, though it can be gone for as claimed more than 80 shipwrecks. Starting in Mackinaw City, head Petoskey. This route takes you long as 30 days. To keep the water - All of these are protected in the west on Central Avenue and follow through the town of Boyne Falls, ways open for larger ships, the cutter Thunder Bay Underwater Preserve. the signs towards Wilderness State home of Boyne Mountain, a popular pushes the ice downward where it is From here the journey turns west Park. About six miles out of town, year-round golf and ski resort, and chopped up by a front propeller. along M-32 through a few small you will reach Cecil Bay Road. You continues the tour’s excellent array of The famous Opera House, a clas - towns, and on into Gaylord, which can either continue straight into the scenery, with rolling, forested hills sic, 582-seat structure that was orig - sits in the heart of Northern Michi - park, to explore much of its 8,000 and farmland. inally constructed in 1877, is often gan. Gaylord offers plenty of golfing, acres, or turn left and head for Gill From Petoskey, take US-31 north referred to as the “Jewel of the skiing and shopping to keep travelers Road. back to Mackinaw City, passing North.” Check the schedule for shows happy. Stop at any of the numerous When you reach Gill Road, turn through the towns of Alanson, Pell - and concerts that occur regularly. eateries in Gaylord for a pleasant right and continue west until you ston, Levering and Carp Lake. Along Continue south out of Cheboygan meal. reach Sturgeon Bay. the stretch of US-31 between Alan - along Lake Huron on US-23 to Leaving Gaylord, we head due This scenic shoreline provides the son and Pellston, make sure you stop Rogers City, where one of the world’s north on I-75 through the middle of traveler with plenty of spots to turn at the Dam Site Inn for country din - largest limestone quarries has been rolling hills and forests spread out in off and explore its dunes. This bay is ing with a panoramic view. It’s lo - dug into the earth. It measures three every direction. Indian River, an - a good spot to find some solitude, cated a mile and a half south of miles long and two miles wide, and other popular resort community, is and possibly even take a swim in Pellston, midway between Petoskey can be seen at Quarry View. bordered by two of the largest inland Lake Michigan for hearty travelers. and Mackinaw City. If detouring off US-23 between lakes in Michigan, Burt and Mullett. Continuing south, the road turns From Carp Lake, it’s an easy 7-mile Cheboygan and Rogers City, points of It’s another 25 miles from Indian into M-119, and thus begins one of jaunt back to Mackinaw City. interest might include a drive to the River to Mackinaw City, and our the best drives in the state. town of Onaway or a visit to Ocqueoc journey through northeastern Michi - Winding its way through a “tunnel Lake Huron loop Falls, one of only two waterfalls in gan is complete. of trees,” this stretch offers excellent (230 miles, 1-2 days) the Lower Peninsula. You can walk views of Lake Michigan and envelops from the parking lot to the falls in a the traveler in the foliage like no If you want to take in a large por - couple of minutes, or hike a portion See map on next page other place. tion of Lake Huron’s northern shore - of the Ocqueoc Falls Pathway. There With stops in Cross Village and line, this is the tour for you. are also grills and tables at the falls Good Hart, the road deliberately Leave Mackinaw City and head for picnics or cook-outs. keeps you from traveling too fast, al - south on US-23 to Cheboygan, Back on US-23, head south to though those with sports cars will be Mackinaw’s larger neighbor located Presque Isle, home of the New sorely tempted to “open it up a bit” 15 miles to the south. MACKINAW TODAY 2015 19

Rogers City Marina

Indian River Ocqueoc Rogers City Onaway

Hillman MUSIC in Mackinaw lenty of music is planned for through the Mackinaw Area Psummer evenings in Macki - Chamber of Commerce and sup - naw City again this year, and it all ported by local businesses. The begins Saturday, June 27 with a musical talent comes from all performance by Voices Without over America, with most per - Borders, featuring a group of 25 formers based in Michigan, at students from Hanoi, Vietnam least for the summer. The series and a few voices from domestic takes place on Saturday nights choirs. and some Friday nights, mostly in The Straits Area Concert Band July and August. has scheduled a full calendar of The Straits Area Concert Band Tuesday nights and the Music in performs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. in Mackinaw concert series is again July and August and includes slated for many weekend dates at local musicians, summer visitors the Roth Performance Shell at and some who drive from as far Conkling Heritage Park. as 100 miles away to play every - The venue for the one-hour musi - thing from marches and show cal performances is located on tunes to innovative compositions the shoreline next to the Straits written by members of the band. State Harbor, and will feature Some have had distinctly Michi - everything from percussion, folk, gan themes. jazz and more this summer. The concert line-up for 2015 is • Fri., July 24 • Sat., Aug. 8 There is no admission charge. listed below. Sunshine String Band Nessa The Music in Mackinaw program • Sat., July 25 • Tues., Aug. 11 is organized by volunteers Robin Connell & Paul Brewer Straits Area Concert Band • Tues., July 28 • Sat., Aug. 15 • Sat., June 27 • Sat., July 11 Straits Area Concert Band Phil Lynch Quartet Voices Without Borders Mackinaw Area Visitors • Fri., July 31 • Tues., Aug. 18 • Fri., July 3 Bureau Musicfest Bay View Festival/American Folk Straits Area Concert Band The Gratitude Steel Band • Tues., July 14 Music • Tues., Aug. 25 • Sat., July 4 Straits Area Concert Band • Sat., Aug. 1 Straits Area Concert Band Straits Area Concert Band • Fri., July 17 Cool2Duel Dueling Pianos • Sat., Aug. 29 • Tues., July 7 Genesee Valley Concert Band • Tues., Aug. 4 Dede and the Dreamers Straits Area Concert Band • Sat., July 18 Straits Area Concert Band More information can be obtained • Fri., July 10 Cherry Capital Men’s Chorus • Fri., Aug. 7 from the Mackinaw City Chamber of Mackinaw Area Visitors • Tues., July 21 Dance North Commerce by calling 436-5574. Bureau Musicfest Straits Area Concert Band 20 MACKINAW TODAY 2015

A nature lovers paradise lands has an abundant mix of wild flowers and trees, including maple, cherry, white By Dough Hagley Great Pileated birch, black walnut, tamarack, willow and aspen. Visitors to the Headlands may expe - he Straits area is a nature Woodpecker rience sightings of the many wild animals Tlover’s paradise. Prehistoric native to the area, including bald eagles, os - fossil corals, bivalves and even prey, white tail deer, wild turkeys, trilobites from the Devonian pe - and occasionally a black bear. riod (about 400 million years Easily accessed dirt roads run through ago) strewn among the beach the Headlands, and visitors are treated to pebbles, show us marine crea - outstanding views of Lake Michigan at tures of the remote past. Today, many points. Marked nature trails guide the great variety of habitats near hikers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers, and the Straits — dunes, swales, nature photographers to experience the park throughout the changing seasons. marshes, cedar swamps, jack The Headlands offers a facility for rental by pine plains, wet and dry mead - the public, and reservations are required ows, bogs and ferns, deciduous well in advance. The newly renovated forests — are home to an as - Guest House provides accommodations for Dark Sky Park Headlands tounding diversity of plants and 22 people in three levels. animals. Besides this building, don’t expect any lent choice. Mammals that might be seen designated picnic spots, fancy parking If you have a larger group — up to 24 peo - at any time include bats, deer, areas or camping accommodations. This is ple — there are also three bunkhouses flying squirrel, bear, porcupine, mostly untouched wilderness, so take ad - available in the heart of the campground, , opossum, , marigolds, Dutchman’s breeches vantage of what’s left in the area. including bunks, wood stoves and “outdoor In 2011, the Headlands was named as an ground squirrel, , and many others. In June, the plumbing.” International Dark Sky Park, just the sixth Wilderness has plenty of beach areas and beaver, muskrat, rabbits and lovely and rare orchids appear. such park in the United States and the a boat ramp, but perhaps its best aspect is many species of mice and voles And the summer wildflowers ninth in the world. The designation has led the amount of unspoiled forests and Lake with luck. are no less spectacular, with a to a variety of programs being offered there Michigan shoreline which exist within its Birders are blessed here too. cast of literally hundreds in for stargazing enthusiasts. wide boundaries. The Straits is a staging point for every imaginable color: brilliant And don’t forget to visit McGulpin Point Waugoshaunce Point sits at the far west - migratory raptors in the spring; red Indian paintbrush; sky blue Lighthouse, which is adjacent to the Head - ern end of the park — just keep following they can be seen circling far forget-me-not; goldenrods; pur - lands recreational park. the main road through the park until it above Mackinaw City in April ple fireweed; pink, blue and Headlands can be reached by going west on turns to dirt and eventually dead ends. and May. Other notables include white asters; brilliant yellow Central Avenue to the T-stop at Wilderness With its lonely open spaces and miles of the extremely endangered pip - puccoons; and silver-leaved Park Drive. Turn left, travel about a quarter undeveloped shoreline, this may be one of mile and turn right to enter the park. ing plover, which lives along the Pitcher’s thistle. the best places in Northern Michigan to truly get away from it all. A hike out to the shoreline and can be observed The Straits puts on a glorious • French Farm end of the point reveals a number of with binoculars but should autumn show, too, with red, or - French Farm Lake is an undeveloped in - smaller islands, which are inaccessible — never be approached; and the ange and yellow maples, deep land lake just two miles south of Mackinaw unless you’ve brought a canoe or are eager great pileated woodpecker, with red oaks, sparkling yellow aspen City. Two public access sites are available for a swim. its red crest and 30-inch and beech, brilliant sumacs and but be sure to bring a small boat without a Back in the heart of the park, an excellent wingspan that you can hear even the fluffy-looking golden motor. This lake is great for bass, pike and network of hiking and mountain bike trails hammering even from a long needles of larch (or tamarack), bluegill. run throughout the park, and maps and in - distance. Dozens of other bird Michigan’s only deciduous A wildlife-flooded area, French Farm Lake formation can be obtained from the park species migrate to mate and conifer. may be the least utilized of the three office. spend the summer in the biolog - Visit us at any time of year, wilderness areas — at least by tourists, any - , black bears, deer, coyotes, rac - way. Locals have always known about its ically rich environs of the from the quiet, snow-filled coons and porcupines join a large bird pop - excellent fishing and hiking trails. ulation, which includes loons and bald Straits. forests of winter to the spring, Camping is allowed, although there are eagles, all of whom call this area home. Some of the greatest delights summer and fall, teeming with no rest rooms and few amenities. To reach Wilderness State Park, head west found on the north shore of the vibrant life. It would take years The 900-acre area offers small boat ac - on Central and keep following the signs. It’s Lower Peninsula are the wild - of observation to see all of the cess points, and a portion of the North about eight miles from downtown Macki - flowers. May brings trilliums, natural wonders the Straits area Country Hiking Trail, which extends from naw City to the park entrance, and there is trout lilies, spring beauty, has to offer. New York to North Dakota, runs through a motor vehicle fee required even if you starflowers, hepatica, marsh here, as well as through portions of Wilder - aren’t camping. ness State Park. The trail is marked with blue diamond markers, and in French • Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park Farm, the rolling trail takes hikers to a dam Finally, while not an undeveloped area Wilderness Areas and eventually a footbridge that crosses the such as the ones listed above, visitors can Carp River after some 3-1/2 miles. also find excellent hiking trails at Historic f one of your priorities is to • The Headlands To reach French Farm, continue south on Mill Creek Discovery Park, south of Mack - Itruly “get away from it all” on Established in the late 1950s Wilderness Park Drive past the entrance to inaw City about four miles along US-23. your vacation to the Straits when Roger McCormick hired a Headlands. At the end of the road turn left This area, operated by Mackinac State area, then one of three wilder - helicopter and dropped 50- and take an immediate right (before going Historic Parks, sits on about 650 acres of ness areas near Mackinaw City pound sacks of flour to mark up the hill) into French Farm. mostly undeveloped land. Visitors are can do the job nicely. the boundaries of a property he treated to a working sawmill, and miles of The Headlands, French Farm desired to purchase, the Head - • Wilderness State Park trails through beautiful northern Michigan and Wilderness State Park are lands of today is as pristine as it Wilderness State Park is one of the most forests. only minutes from downtown, was then. Containing approxi - popular in the state, and for good reason. A unique way to get to the park is to take yet offer the visitor a myriad of mately 550 acres of woodlands, With thousands of acres, it has plenty of the developed trail which runs from Mack - recreational possibilities more than two miles of unde - backcountry to get lost in, but still has an inaw City to Cheboygan along the west side throughout the year. veloped Lake Michigan shore - abundance of camping sites (250) and cab - of US-23. Beautiful foliage, abundant line and many species of rare ins available. The trail is suitable for hiking and biking wildlife and lots of room to ex - and endangered plant life, the A good bet if you want more seclusion is and crosses the entrance to Historic Mill plore make the these wilderness property is now managed by one of the several trail-side cabins which Creek Discovery Park, passing through areas near Mackinaw City a Emmet County and is open to sleep up to eight people. If a secluded expe - woods along what was once a railroad great choice. the public as a park. The Head - rience is a must, these cabins are an excel - track. MACKINAW TODAY 2015 21 Camping Offers 70 sites. Located on the north end of , Petoskey State Park is situ - ated on 303 scenic acres and offers a beautiful sandy beach on the bay. The park has two separate modern campgrounds. Tannery Creek offers 98 Wilderness State campsites, and Dunes offers 70 campsites. Park Several state forest campgrounds are also available in the area with more Offers 250 modern sites. rustic camping amenities. They can be located by visiting • Wilderness State Park www.michigan.gov/dnr. There are also several private campgrounds around offers visitors a variety of the Mackinaw City area. Call the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce for year-round recreational more information. activities within its more than 10,000 acres, in - Please note: You may see Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park and cluding 26 miles of beau - Mill Creek Historic State Park included in listings of area parks; however, tiful Lake Michigan they do not offer camping. shoreline, numerous trails, six rustic cabins and three rustic bunkhouses. There’s a Dinner served until 10 pm playground, boat launch, programs and chances to ski, swim, hike, fish, hunt, 231-436-7911 nature watch, picnic and bike. The park is located in Emmet County, 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, at 903 Wilderness Park Drive. The phone number is 323 E. Central Ave., 231-436-5381. Mackinaw City Cheboygan State Park Offers 76 sites. • Cheboygan State Park has a system of well-marked trails that provide access to scenic Lake Huron vistas and glimpses of rare wildflowers. Modern camp - ing, rustic cabins, and teepees are all available, as well as trout fishing on the Little Billy Elliot Creek and fishing on Duncan Bay. There’s a picnic shelter, KEYHOLE playground and chances to ski, swim, hike, hunt and bike. The park is located KEYHOLE in Cheboygan County, four miles east of the city of Cheboygan, off U.S. 23. The phone number is 231-627-2811. BARBAR && GRILLGRILL

Aloha State Park Good Food ~ Good Times Offers 278 modern sites. • offers modern camping on beautiful Mullett Lake, the cen - ter of the Inland Waterway. Campsites are near the park’s boat launch for those traveling this route. Aloha is close to many of Michigan’s most famous 2 Locations travel attractions at the Straits of Mackinac. There’s a playground, picnic shel - to serve you! ter, handicap facilities and a swimming area. The park is located five miles south of the city of Cheboygan, off M-33. The phone number is 231-625-2522.

Burt Lake State Park

Offers 300 sites. • Burt Lake State Park is located on the southeast corner of Burt Lake, with 514 S. Huron 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline. Visitors are welcome to enjoy camping, boating,    Mackinaw  City fishing, sight-seeing and many more activities in the beautiful area. There is a Michigan 49701 boat launch, mini cabin rentals, a playground, a picnic shelter and a store. Open May thru October Restaurant and shopping is available in nearby Indian River. Mackinaw City is Mackinaw Bridge about 30 miles north on I-75. The phone number is 231-238-9392. N N. HURON AVE. L O U

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Michigan’s TRAIL System

orthern Michigan is home to hundreds of miles of fantastic trails Navailable to a variety of users north of the 44th parallel. Visitors can access hiking trails, biking trails, snowmobile trails, ski trails, horseback riding trails, ORV trails and water trails. Many visitors to northern Michi - gan have remarked that these are some of the best trails in the country. The Top of Michigan Trails Council advocates and facilitates the develop - ment of a network of multipurpose recreational trails in northern Lower Michigan. A total of 180 miles of the 288 miles of trail in the Top of Michi - gan’s inventory run along old railroad corridors. “Trunk Line” trails are non-motorized (except for snowmobiles), multi-purpose trails that can or - dinarily be used for running, hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, snowmobil - ing and equestrian activities. Some of the trails in the area include Black Mountain Recreation Area, the Alpena Bi-Path, the Alpena to Hillman Trail, the Boyne City to Char - lvoix Trail, the Boyne Trail, the Burt Lake Trail, the Huron Sunrise Trail, the Little Traverse Wheelway, the North Central State Trail, the North Eastern State Trail, the Petoskey City Trails, the North Western State Trail and the Rogers City Spur Trail. Except where noted, the trails are “dedicated,” meaning that they do not share the right of way with automobiles, motorcycles, etc. There are some segments where snowmobiles and horses are prohibited and others where activities such as in-line skating and road bicycling are impractical because of the rough trail surface. Some are suitable for smooth surface activities extending to the use of baby strollers. In general, Top of Michigan Trails Council trails can accommodate hybrid bicycles. In winter, cross country skiing and show-shoeing are permitted, but are only suitable in areas where snowmobiles are prohibited. However, some stretches of the trails tend to be windswept and icy during much of the winter and may not be groomed. Don’t forget that even though the trail descriptions seem to be written mostly for bicyclists (about 2/3 of users ride bicycles), the trails are open for all appropriate uses as indicated.

Here is a breakdown of a few of the specific trails:

Photo by Xiaohong Zhou MACKINAW TODAY 2015 23 North Central State Trail (Gaylord to Mackinaw City) Burt Lake Trail This beautiful 61-mile trail, newly resurfaced with crushed limestone in When complete, the trail will be an 18-mile east/west connector between the fall of 2007, has become one of the premier cycling trails in the Mid - the North Central State Trail and the Northwestern State Trail. The trail west. Its flat terrain makes for easy bicycling through an area of great and will be a separated, ten-foot-wide crushed limestone pathway for non-mo - diverse natural beauty. Most users’ highlights will include the valley of the torized recreation. The first phase, 5.1 miles in length, has been completed Sturgeon River and its tributaries and the section north of Topinabee along and begins at Maple Bay Campground, passing through the Chaboiganing the west side of Mullett Lake. Besides the terminal towns of Gaylord and Preserve and running north along the non-lake side of West Burt Lake Mackinaw City, Vanderbilt, Wolverine, Indian River, Topinabee and Road to Hogsback Road. The first phase was funded by a Transportation Cheboygan also offer plenty of amenities. The improvement to the old rail Enhancement grant of $473,325 from the Michigan Department of Trans - corridor was made possible by a nearly $2 million federal trail enhance - portation, a grant of $398,500 from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust ment grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation in 2005 and Fund and $140,000 in personal contributions to fulfill the required local the cooperation and contributions from governments and individuals match. Major donations were received from the Burt Lake Preservation along the way. In 2008, the trail was named as one of the top five autumn Association, Tri-County Bicycle Association DALMAC Fund, the Petoskey- destinations in the nation by Rails to Trails Conservancy. Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, Hospitalists of Northern Michigan, and more than 120 individual donors. North Eastern State Trail The construction of the 71-mile North Eastern State Trail (NEST), for - Huron Sunrise Trail merly known as the Alpena to Cheboygan Rail-Trail, is now complete and Stretching six-miles north along Lake Huron from Rogers City, Huron- open for use. The NEST surfacing project started in April 2011 in Cheboy - Sunrise is one of northern Michigan’s most beautiful trails. There are many gan and the contractor, Rieth-Riley Construction, completed the trail sur - good trailheads along the lakeshore in Rogers City. Currently the trail ends facing from the City of Cheboygan to Hawks in Presque Isle County (except at the Forty Mile Point Lighthouse, a distance of eight miles from Rogers for 1.5 miles between S. Ocqueoc Road and the Village of Millersburg). City. To the southeast, the long-term goal is to find a way through the The NEST was constructed with a 10’ wide packed crushed limestone sur - Michigan Limestone Operations quarry to a railroad right of way called the face with two foot shoulders, similar to what was used on the North Cen - Rogers City Spur and a link to the Alpena to Mackinaw City Trail. tral State Trail (NCST) that runs from Gaylord to Mackinaw City. Included The Huron Sunrise Trail has many amenities in town in in the surfacing will be new safety signs, access control and mile marker and at Forty Mile Point. On the north side of town is the Vogler Conserva - posts. The trail use, determined by the DNR, will stay the same; it will be tion Area, a 270-acre forested property that includes several more miles of open for all non-motorized use year round and snowmobiles from Dec. 1 trails for hiking and mountain biking. through March 31. There are many more trails that can be found throughout Northern This project is a true collaboration between two state departments, local Michigan. More information on specific trails can be found by visiting the government and a non- profit organization. The Michigan Department of Top of Michigan Trails Council website at www.trailscouncil.org, by visiting Natural Resources (DNR) which owns and manages the trail, has been www.upnorthtrails.org or by contacting the local Chamber of Commerce. working with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) which completed the engineering for the project and is responsible for project oversight. The Top of Michigan Trails Council (TOMTC) helped create the funding package for the trail project including 60% through a Federal Transportation Grant, 20% from MDOT, 15% from the DNR via the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant and 5% from local units of government. STAR LINE MACKINAC ISLAND’S Those traveling along the connecting trails between Alpena and Cheboy - gan are following the path that was first made possible by the lumber in - HYDRO-JET® FERRY dustry and the need for transporting the timber, by rail. Most of the clearing and building of the railroad took place in the late 1800s.

North Western State Trail Discover the natural beauty and quaint small towns along “The Fishing Line” from Petoskey to Mackinaw City along the North Western State Trail. The trail runs along the former Grand Rapids and Indiana line of Pennsyl - vania Railroad (once known as “The Fishing Line”) that opened in 1882 and continued in some areas until 1992. The North Western State Trail is 32 miles from M-119 in Petoskey to the trailhead in downtown Mackinaw City. The 10’ wide asphalt trail is 7.5 miles, from M-119 at Spring Lake Park to downtown Alanson. The unim - proved section of trail from Alanson to Mackinaw City, 24.5 miles, is dirt, sand and gravel, but the DNR is improving it during the summer of 2015. Improvements will make the trail (with a 10-foot-wide, packed crushed limestone surface) more accessible to nonmotorized users in the warmer months without snow, except in Pellston, where the trail surface will be as - Star Line is the only Fast, Frequent, Fun and Friendly, Hydro-Jet phalt. Once construction is completed, the trail will continue to be open Ferry service to Mackinac Island. People of all ages enjoy the year-round to all nonmotorized users, and open to snowmobiles Dec. 1 to exhilarating ride on our boats, which produce the unique March 31. When complete, it will connect Petoskey to Mackinaw City. The new trail segment will connect Alanson, Brutus, Pellston, Levering, Carp Water-Jet rooster tail. Lake and Mackinaw City to Petoskey and Harbor Springs. “High Tail It” to Black Mountain Recreation Area Mackinac Island today! With more than 30 miles of trails, hikers and skiers have their choice of routes for every skill level. Special pathways have been constructed for the traditional diagonal skier and the skate-skier. Pathways range from “Easy” to “Most Difficult.” Skiers may find themselves gliding under majestic pines, taking in views of Black Lake and, under the right conditions, even getting a glimpse of Lake Huron. Trail users travel through a number of forest types and are able to see what a managed forest looks like in its vari - ous stages of regrowth. Four separate parking lots provide skiers and hik - mackinacferry.com ers access to the pathway loops which best suit their abilities or interests. 24 MACKINAW TODAY 2015 Straits of Mackinac Mackinac Bridge to Upper Peninsula Colonial Michilimackinac Lighthouse Information Mackinaw City Lake Michigan Parking & Welcome Center Center Lakeshore Park Colonial Old Mackinac Point GUEST Michilimackinac Lake Huron MAP Straits Alexander Henry Historical Pathway Depeyster Park Bridge Observation Point Sinclair N o y r r t

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