River Raisin National Battlefield Park: Discover the Fascinating History of Michigan’s Involvement in the War of 1812
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River Raisin National Battlefield Park: Discover the Fascinating History of Michigan’s Involvement in the War of 1812

The River Raisin National Battlefield Park exhibits and shares sobering details about a series of battles and their aftermath in southeast Michigan during the War of 1812. The War of 1812 is more significant to our history than most people realize. You will find pertinent information at this free-to-visit National Park. Where to Begin The…

Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary: Where Tranquility and Adventure meet
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Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary: Where Tranquility and Adventure meet

Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary is 45 acres of woods, wetlands, mudflats, and shoreline along the eastern coast of the Michigan thumb. The sanctuary is a little hidden gem not far off the beaten path, but it feels like a secret garden leading to a private beach. Where to find Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary The nature…

rock ground with Lake Superior in background
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Explore the Wonders of Marquette with a Springtime Daytrip

Marquette, Michigan, is perfect for a Daytrip any time of year. Sometimes, travelers avoid the lakeshores in the colder months, but for those who venture out, they offer unique opportunities in the off-season. Scenic views are spectacular when the trees are bare of leaves. Parking is easier to find. Trails and attractions are less crowded….

Tip of the Thumb Winter Weekend Getaway Itinerary
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Tip of the Thumb Winter Weekend Getaway Itinerary

A Thumb Weekend Getaway is typical for Michiganders, but most visitors enjoy the beauty of the Thumbcoast of Michigan during the warm summer. While soaking in the sun on the sandy shorelines is a dream, we also like to visit summer destinations in the off-season. Read along and find out how to enjoy the Tip…

empty harbor with ice on the water and sun glowing above cracks in the cloudy sky

Winter Weekend in Lexington, Michigan: DIY Pub Crawl and more.

Read on to learn why Lexington, Michigan, is a wonderful choice for a quiet winter weekend getaway. Lexington rests at the edge of Lake Huron, 20 minutes north of Port Huron. Visiting this small harbor town in the winter is very different than what you find in the summer months. Our winter weekend was cozy…

snowy trail through the woods with a few footprints in the snow

January 2024 Walks Around Michigan

Hidden Gems Michigan made 12 outdoor walks around Michigan in January of 2024. The year started snowless and frosty, with a few dustings. Later in the month, we got a good snowstorm that left us with nice snow cover toward the end of the month. The walk posts will be photo-heavy with short descriptions of…

sign alongside the road that says Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area: Wooded Terrain for All Your Outdoor Plans

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in Metamora, Michigan, is full of beautiful wooded terrain for hiking, camping, and much more. This 723-acre park encompasses Lake Minnawanna. We have walked here many times over the past several years and have even used the park for senior photos. It’s one of our photographer’s favorite places. If you enjoy wooded…

fieldstone, mortar, and cement ruins covered in graffiti in the woods

Ortonville State Recreation Area: Pinnacle Point and Other Hills of Interest.

Ortonville State Recreation Area in Ortonville, Michigan, is nestled among what is known to locals as the “Hadley Hills.” This park spans over 5000 acres, with numerous activities within its boundaries. Every season fills this park with visitors enjoying a variety of outdoor sports. The DNR website has a map that indicates which activities are…

Tent, table, two chairs, hammock and string lights all set up in forested campsite

Port Crescent State Park: Sunsets, Stars, and Sand.

Port Crescent State Park near Port Austin, Michigan, sits near the tip of the thumb. Even though this State Park is on the “sunrise side” of the state, due to its location, you find stunning SUNSETS instead of sunrises here. Port Crescent State Park is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve and nestles right up…

looking up at a tree with white bark and yellow leaves against a blue sky

For-Mar Nature Preserve: Always something to experience here!

Our family discovered For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum about 15 years ago. It quickly became one of our favorite places. Even after we moved farther away, we made trips to walk the trails, stop in at the Visitor Center, and experience the fun things happening at this outstanding park. Finding For-Mar For-Mar Nature Preserve is…