Northern Michigan is chalk full of diverse attractions that can be enjoyed by all, young and old, big or small; for common vacationer or wandering traveler the breathtaking scenery is a sight to behold. So pack your bags, come visit and enjoy Michigan’s wondrous outdoor sports or just simply pull up a chair and relax. From its lakeshores, to the spectacular burst of fall foliage, Michigan has such unforgettable scenery. Below I showcase some of my favorite places for sightseeing in Northern Michigan .
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Nestled in the Leelanau Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is rich in natural beauty and loaded with outdoor activities. One can scale the monstrous sandy dunes which peak at 400 feet high to view the breathtaking lakeshore. During spring, summer and autumn months one can swim, hike, canoe or picnic at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The dunes, shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago are rife with legend, diverse terrain and splendid beauty. The surrounding community has wine shops, food, art galleries and music. One will deeply enjoy this wonderful experience.
Grand Traverse Bay
Grand Traverse Bay is a bay located within Lake Michigan. Traverse City, the world’s cherry capital, is located at the southernmost region of the bay. Northport, Suttons Bay and Bowers Harbor all provide surrounding delights for year round visitors. The bay houses public marinas where one can traverse the bay by boat or swim at one of the areas public beaches. In West Bay, near Traverse City, thrill seekers can view the bay from the unique perspective of parasailing. No previous experience is needed to parasail, however weather conditions must be kept in mind. There are numerous water sports, mini golf courses and restaurants near the bay.
Mackinac Island
For those of you who wish to travel further north to a legendary place, Mackinac Island is for you. Rich in local history, Mackinac Island houses no motorized vehicles; there are plenty of horse drawn carriage tours and bicycle rentals. The island is open to guests from early May through October. The island’s attractions include, The wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, Arch Rock, a breathtaking natural limestone formation and Mackinac Island’s claim to fame, the stunning Grand Hotel, to name a few.
Kitchitikipi Springs
Kitchitikipi Springs is one of the Upper Peninsula ‘s major attractions. It is Michigan ‘s largest freshwater spring. The round pool measures 300′ by 175′ and is around 40’ deep. One can see right to the bottom of the clear emerald spring. There is an observation raft that guides park visitors to spectacular views overlooking the freshwater. The raft is on a cable visitors can pull to guide themselves over the fast flowing spring. The name Kitchitikipi is said to have many meanings in the Chippewa language, ranging from “The Great Water” to “Sound of Thunder.”
