Visiting Michigan as a Family

Beachy Backcountry (Sleeping Bear Dunes)

It was the first time in five years that we did not get rained or stormed on, huddled in a tent or hammock! This annual learning-journey tradition continues to churn out memorable moments. Josh and I...

Backpacking the Manistee River Trail

It was the first time in three years that we did not have severe weather to contend with on the annual nieces and nephews’ backpacking adventure. There were, however, plenty of other happenings...

MI Trail Towns

Mountain bikers, have you heard of Ishpeming, Negaunee, Big Bay, or Harbor Springs? Even my fellow Michiganders might be scratching their helmet right now. These new Michigan trail towns are all at...

Need a Lift? The Highlands

I inspected two diverse piles of clothing before shoving them in my overnight bag for our fall weekend adventure at The Highlands in Harbor Springs. One stack included a skort, a collared shirt, and...

Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Room to Ride

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is 1/3 of the state's land area, but only 3% of the state's population lives here. Being a troll (someone who lives below the Mackinaw Bridge), I crave the vastness and...

Mountain Bike the Mitten

Most avid mountain bikers that visit the Mitten roll into Marquette or Copper Harbor, both epic trail systems. Copper Harbor is an IMBA Silver-level ride center, and Marquette is just a little behind...