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Month: July 2023

Distilleries of the Upper Peninsula

Whiskey tasting at distillery

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, also known as the U.P., is known for its rugged landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. While the distillery scene in the U.P. is still growing here are a few distilleries located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Great Turtle Brewery and Distillery – Mackinac Island Offering private label gin, vodka, whiskey, rum, and beers. Brewing and distilling is done off the island because of the infrastructure they cannot brew on site. Les Cheneaux Distillers – Cedarville 2 locations in Cedarville offering vodka, rum, gin, whiskey under the Straits label. They also have a brewery with 10 different… Read More »


Distilleries of Northern Michigan

Copper stills. Distilleries of Northern Michigan

 Northern Michigan is known for its scenic beauty, it is also becoming known for the distilleries that produce a wide range of spirits. Please note that it is always a good idea to check their current status and visiting hours before planning a visit. Distilleries of Northwest Michigan Northwest Michigan is home to several distilleries that offer a variety of spirits. Please note that it is advisable to check their current operating status and visiting hours before planning a visit: Ethanology – Elk Rapids All spirits are crafted in Elk Rapids using ingredients from family-owned farms. They offer vodka, gin,… Read More »


Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail Bike Ride

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a scenic trail located in northern Michigan. The trail runs through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The National Park offers stunning natural beauty and views. The trail is a multi-use pathway that is handicap accessible and is designed for pedestrians, wheelchairs, skiers, and non-motorized vehicles such as bicycles. It provides an excellent way to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Some areas have steep grades and there are warning signs on the trail. Make sure to read over the trailhead’s signs, they provide… Read More »


Fun on West Grand Traverse Bay

Downtown Traverse City and Clinch Park Marina

  West Grand Traverse Bay is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. West Bay is part of the larger Grand Traverse Bay. The Bay is situated in the northwest region of the Lower Peninsula. Traverse City sits along its shoreline. West Grand Traverse Bay is a large, deepwater bay that stretches about 32 miles in length. It has sandy beaches and a scenic shoreline. The bay is separated from the main body of Lake Michigan by the Old Mission Peninsula. The Peninsula extends northward into the bay, creating two distinct arms known as the East Arm and the… Read More »


Betsie Valley Trail

Betsie Valley Trail Bike Ride

The Betsie Valley Trail is a popular recreational trail located in Benzie and Wexford Counties in Michigan. It is a multi-use trail that follows the route of the former Ann Arbor Railroad line, offering a scenic and accessible pathway for walkers, runners, cyclists, and other outdoor enthusiasts. For 90 years (1892-1982) freight cars were carried across Lake Michigan on car ferries to Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula. The passenger service was discontinued in 1951 and freight service in 1985. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) bought the rail corridor in 1998. The Betsie Valley Trail is owned by the… Read More »