Make your way to the northern end of the Lower Peninsula, known affectionately “Up North” but not to be confused with the Upper Peninsula. You’ve arrived in Northern Michigan, a region that’s loved by locals and a sought-after vacation destination.
Traverse City has made its mark as the Cherry Capital of the World for over 100 million reasons. That is, over 100 million pounds of tart cherries and 50 million pounds of sweet cherries come out of the Grand Traverse Region every year. The National Cherry Festival is truly a Pure Michigan event, dedicating a week of celebrations to all things cherry.
Once those cherry-ful festivities are over, summer is still in full swing in Northern Michigan:
Climbing the Sand Dunes
A trip to this region isn’t complete without visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a majestic 71,000-acre park that encompasses 35 miles of Lake Michigan’s eastern coast. See how dramatically the sand dunes rise, some topping over 450 feet, and set your sights on climbing the sandy slopes for panoramic views of the lake and lush forests.
Visiting a Winery
The lake effect that creates the right growing conditions for cherries and apples has also led to Michigan’s burgeoning wine industry. One of the pioneers and the largest commercial winery in the region is Chateau Grand Traverse, part of a wine trail that meanders along the Old Mission Peninsula. The Leelanau Peninsula has more than 20 wineries and tasting rooms stretched over three trails: Sleeping Bear Loop, Northern Loop and Grand Traverse Bay Loop.
Paddling the Au Sable River
As long as the sun is shining, you’ll find canoers, kayakers and fly fishers navigating the 130-mile-long river. The clear, shallow waters flow slowly into Lake Huron, and local outfitters from Grayling can set you up with all the gear you need on a guided excursion. Mid-July is a time to celebrate in the town of Grayling, home to the AuSable River Canoe Marathon and Festival.
Exploring Shipwrecks
Stories of the Great Lakes also linger below the surface. Sail from Alpena to peer into the shipwrecks of the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary through a glass-bottom viewing well. There are an estimated 200 shipwrecks in Thunder Bay, in what’s known as Lake Huron's Shipwreck Alley, but only about 100 of them have been identified. Learn the tales behind the wrecks and marvel over lighthouses on this 2.5-hour journey.
Touring Small Towns
Up North, you’ll find a string of communities where natural beauty meets small-town charm. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Frankfort has a thriving surfing scene alongside summer vacationers visiting the Frankfort lighthouse and strolling the historical downtown. Picturesque Leland has a prime location between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau. Walk the shoreline in areas like Van’s Beach or North Beach in search of Leland Blue stones — which are, in fact, byproducts of Michigan’s past smelting industry, churned up by the ocean into a beautiful glassy blue hue.
Playing in Torch Lake
Speaking of blue, you’ll be astounded by the Caribbean hue of Torch Lake. It’s the deepest inland lake in the state, plunging as far as 310 feet in some areas and averaging 111 feet (it’s deeper than Lake Erie). Spend a day out in the sun while canoeing, paddleboarding or casting a line in the crystal-clear waters for freshwater fish. A meal at Dockside Restaurant comes with great people watching and clear views of the sunset over the water.
Take the Ferry to Mackinac Island
Sitting precisely between the Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula, Mackinac Island is a worthy stop whether you’re a lifelong Michigander or a first-time visitor. Even a single day is enough to check it off your bucket list, but you’ll likely want to spend more time diving into this magical island. Take a bite of world-famous Mackinac Island fudge, made fresh before your eyes. On this car-free island, bike riding on 70 miles of paved and natural trails is an effortless way to catch the views. Catch waterfront views as you ride the perimeter on the M-185 roadway, or take a tour of landmarks like the historical Fort Mackinac and the famous Grand Hotel.
There’s so much more to explore, from the beautiful waterways of Gaylord to the sandy beaches of Charlevoix. Find your next summer adventure in Northern Michigan.
