Author: Kyle Hamilton

  • Summer Adventure in Northern Michigan, the Upper Peninsula, and Mackinac Island

    Summer Adventure in Northern Michigan, the Upper Peninsula, and Mackinac Island

    Trip Overview

    Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula deliver a quintessential summer getaway—lakeside charm, rich history, and pristine wilderness. On this trip, I explored scenic coastlines, hiked through lush forests, visited historic landmarks, and wrapped it all up with the timeless beauty of Mackinac Island.

    Whether you’re a Midwest local or flying in from afar, this region has the perfect mix of nature, nostalgia, and new discoveries.

    Most Memorable Moments

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Towering dunes overlook Lake Michigan with jaw-dropping views. The Dune Climb is a must—challenging but worth it.

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Kayaking along these colorful sandstone cliffs was a highlight. The turquoise water almost makes you forget you’re in Michigan.

    Mackinac Island – No cars, just horse-drawn carriages and bikes. The fudge shops are iconic, but it’s the Victorian charm and coastal breeze that make it magical.

    Logistics & Practical Information

    Accommodation

    • We stayed in a mix of cozy lakeside inns and rustic lodges—each had its own charm.
    • On Mackinac, we stayed at The Mackinac House and found it to be really lovely.

    Transportation

    • We drove our car for the trip and then the passenger ferry to/from Mackinac.

    Notable Food

    Activities

    • Hiking Sleeping Bear Dunes
    • Biking the perimeter of Mackinac Island
    • Visiting lighthouses and historic forts
    • Having a drink on the Grand Porch of the Grand Hotel

    Tips for Travelers

    • Summer is peak season—book accommodations early.
    • Pack for varied weather: warm days, cooler nights.
    • Take the ferry to Mackinac early in the day to beat the crowds.
    • Bring water shoes if you plan to swim or kayak.

    Reflections & Final Thoughts

    This trip was a refreshing blend of nature and nostalgia. There’s something uniquely peaceful about the forests of the Upper Peninsula and the timeless charm of Mackinac Island. Northern Michigan may not be the first place people think of for summer adventures—but it absolutely should be.

  • Camping in Wilderness State Park, Michigan

    Camping in Wilderness State Park, Michigan

    We packed our bags, loaded up the car, and headed north to experience the raw beauty of Wilderness State Park. From setting up camp amidst towering trees to exploring crystal-clear lake shores and conquering (sort of) mighty peaks, this trip was a true adventure filled with laughter, good food, and breathtaking scenery.

    Trip Overview

    Our escape took us to the aptly named Wilderness State Park in the northern reaches of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. We spent several days immersed in nature, focusing on classic camping experiences – setting up a cozy basecamp, cooking over an open fire, and exploring the park’s diverse landscapes through hiking. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activity, proving that sometimes the best adventures are right in your own backyard.

    Most Memorable Moments

    This trip was packed with moments that will stick with us. Some of the highlights that stick with me:

    • Lake Michigan’s Beauty: The sheer clarity and vibrant blue of Lake Michigan took our breath away. It felt more like a tropical paradise than a Michigan lake! I really enjoyed swimming around in the water – even though we ended up being chased by a flying bug of some kind for most of the time!
    • Card Game Antics: Evenings weren’t just about the fire; they involved some friendly games and enjoyable discussion.
    • Car rental: We rented a car for the trip to simplify some logistics. Comically enough, we were given a luxury sedan which didn’t quiet fit in with the trip vibe. It might have been returned dirtier than when we got it.

    Logistics & Practical Information

    Accommodation

    Transportation

    • Rental car & hiking!

    Food

    • Basic camp food (watch the video for more!)

    Activities

    • Our main activities were hiking the various trails within the park and enjoying the beautiful shoreline of Lake Michigan. Swimming, stargazing, and simply relaxing by the campfire were amazing.

    Tips for Travelers

    Based on our experience at Wilderness State Park, here are a few tips if you’re planning a similar camping adventure:

    • Get a camp site next to the lake: the park has a few sites that are further back from the lake. If at all possible, try to get a site that’s lakeside.
    • Check the Weather: Michigan weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly.

    Reflections & Final Thoughts

    Wilderness State Park truly lived up to its name, offering a refreshing escape into the Michigan wild. The stunning natural beauty, the simple pleasures of camping, and the shared experiences made this a truly memorable trip. It was a reminder of the joy of disconnecting from the everyday and reconnecting with nature and with each other. If you’re looking for a beautiful and accessible camping destination in Michigan, we highly recommend adding Wilderness State Park to your list.