Welcome, and thanks for checking us out! We are Gerret and Heather, the curious explorers and couple behind this travel blog. As Michiganders in our almost-empty-nest era, we’ve begun a mission to unearth the hidden treasures that our beloved state offers.
The Cross in the Woods.
Heather has lived in Michigan her whole life (she grew up in Muskegon), and Gerret transplanted over thirty years ago. We’ve raised our family here, work here, and love living here in Michigan – especially the hidden, less-explored corners of Michigan. With (nearly) grown children leading their (almost) independent lives, we started Hidden Gems as we begin charting a new chapter of adventure, seeking and exploring the out-of-the-way places in Michigan. For now, at least, weekends and evenings are a way to balance busy professional lives with the soul-expanding enjoyment of exploring the nooks and crannies of Michigan.
Hidden Gem.
Often our happiest moments are discovering places and the people who live there, who know the hidden lore of a place. There are so many of them here in Michigan, where it seems like every detour and winding road promises a chance to discover something extraordinary. Whether it’s a quaint roadside diner (looking at you, Honeybee Grille!), a tucked-away hiking trail (hi Sutherland and Seven Ponds!), or a hidden beach with sunrise, sunset, or even midnight views (Port Crescent’s Dark Skies observatory!) that leave you awestruck, we are on a mission to experience (and share) these gems.
From the Great Lakeshores to the Upper Peninsula’s largely untamed beauty, and the vibrant city life of Detroit to the serene landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes, we are venturing out to explore and share the secrets in our own backyard.
So, join us as we blend work, life, and the pursuit of the undiscovered. Our hope is to inspire you to take your own Michigan adventures, whether you’re a fellow Michigander seeking new horizons or an eager traveler planning an escape to the Mitten State.
Stay in Touch
Join our community of kindred spirits who appreciate the deep fulfillment of taking the road less traveled. So, fasten your seatbelts and come along as we look to find the Hidden Gems – the extraordinary behind the ordinary. Consider this our personal invitation to you – come along on our journey, and let us know about your own adventures!
Consider this our personal invitation. Let us take you on a tour of Michigan’s hidden gems and share with you the beauty and wonder found in the state’s quiet places and remote corners. If we can share a taste of it, then hopefully, you, too, will find a sense of peace and fulfillment in the wandering streams of life.