Putting on the Michigan mitten
Heading to the Great Lakes has been a feature of this year’s planned route since the beginning. Our reasoning has been partly to bypass the mid-west, partly to get some of that ocean-feeling, even without an ocean nearby. It has been working flawlessly, and we have both been enjoying the much nice climate all the way up here. There has been a bit more rain recently which is a plus, and the temperatures have cooled enough that we even felt the need to run our furnace a few times already.
We entered into Michigan from the South, only getting an hour or so up the cuff of the mitten before finding our spot for the week. Van Buren State Park just outside of South Haven, Michigan is where we called home. Nothing really special about either place compared to others, but it was nice to feel ‘away from it all’ again. Although, Kerri and I did get into the town itself for an afternoon, exploring their local marina, lighthouse, and ice cream shop. The dogs got their first (and second) chance at a beach in some time as well.
The work weeks slipped by quickly and next thing we knew we were packed up and on our way North. We have a lot of miles and places to cram in before our arrival at Voyagers National Park so we are maximizing the travel days to their fullest.
If you are still up there, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is worth a hiking visit in the U.P. We like the Escarpment Trail. http://www.mymichigantrips.com/wp/escarpment-trail-porcupine-mountains-hikes/
Thanks John. I must say, Kerri and I both agree that we wish we had more time scheduled for Michigan. Not only is it a beautiful state, the people are very relaxed and welcoming. We have passed by many small towns and parks that we wish we could stop and hang out in, but out planned trip in Voyagers has kept us on the move. I may have to return to Michigan in the future.