Northern Michigan

From Traverse City to Alpena and points in between, the northern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is home to wonderful vacation destinations and plenty of natural beauty to explore. If you’re planning to be in the area, make a point to spend a day on foot, checking out some of the best hiking trails in Michigan.

The beautiful orange, red, and yellow leaves of fall are almost here! Find out when you should plan your color tour to make the most of the autumn splendor.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is full of surprises, including winter ice caves. Get helpful tips on how to hike properly in the winter.

As the National Parks System celebrates it’s centennial, it’s important for visitors to know a few rules when visiting them.

The Northern Lights are tricky to plan for and often unpredictable. Here are some tips and a few of the best places to view them in Michigan.

Hiking in Michigan? This comprehensive guide includes tips on what to pack, how much food and drink you’ll need and how to stay safe on the trail.

Whether you’re on the water for a short period of time or the whole day, make sure you are practicing safe practices and are aware of your surroundings.

Morel mushrooms usually grow in the wild and are rarely farmed. We share how to find them in nature and prepare them for a dish when you do.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes is located in Empire, Michigan and has many natural wonders. Read about plans to celebrate this popular attraction’s 50th anniversary.

Make a dent in the caloric damage you’ll do on Thanksgiving with one of these fun community turkey runs.

Whether you are more of a trick or a treat person, these Halloween events across Michigan are certain to be fun for the entire family.

In this guest post from Ty Schmidt, executive director of Traverse City-based non-profit organization Norte, learn why walkable communities are good for health.

Michigan is blessed to have a booming tourism industry that gets by with a little help from volunteers in organizations such as Michigan Cares for Tourism.

Michiganders are known for loving their pasties, but how many of us know the story behind them? Discover the history here.

Learn more about the blueberry festivals happening in Michigan this August.

The After 26 Depot provides great food to the Cadillac community and the restaurant employs adults with cognitive impairments and developmental disabilities.

February is National Cherry Month. Learn how Michigan cherry producers contribute enormously to the nation’s supply and how the fruit is harvest and processed.

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are eight fun ways to ring in 2019 across Michigan.

An organization called Just Believe is working to spread sunscreen dispensers throughout U.P. communities, in memory of a loved one lost to skin cancer.

With scenic views, rolling waters and untouched wildlife, Michigan waterfalls offer a serene getaway that will satisfy anyone’s nature needs.

Ever dreamed of living on Mackinac Island? One resident explains why she loves island living and what those considering a big move might want to consider.

The Mighty Mac turns 60 in 2017. Find out what it took to cross the Straits of Mackinac before the bridge’s opening in 1957.

Three state parks have taken the term “playground” to a new level … sea level! Learn how these destinations will ensure fun for all ages this summer.

A magical Michigan village located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan offers tourists a look back in time at Fishtown’s historical fishing community.

There is something about “unplugging” from busy day-to-day lives and then recharging in the Michigan backcountry.

On your mark. Get set. Hope. This annual fundraiser for the Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center includes events for everyone to participate in.

Ice climbing is a great way to get outdoors, be active and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery a Michigan winter can offer.

Feel the love this February by stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something new.

Michigan is beautiful, but beach season is short. If you’re craving warmth and water, you’re only a road trip away from one of these indoor water parks.

Try these Michigan themed crafts to bring the beauty of the fall season into your home!

Looking to up your Halloween game? Check out these real-life haunted destinations.

Michigan offers many unique excursions during the fall and Halloween season. Try one of these suggestions!

Walk to School Day takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017. Get tips from the organizer of Traverse City’s successful program, which has grown every year.

Located just minutes from the shores of Lake Michigan in Shelby, a lavender labyrinth attracts visitors from all over the world.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to hike in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Find out where to get started here.

Looking for your next Pure Michigan vacation destination? Alpena just might be the place!

Eating fresh, local ingredients is important for a healthy diet. Find out how Michigan food trucks can be part of yours.

A new Traverse City company is offering an adventurous way to tour the city and its various breweries.

If the friends you keep aren’t always up for the adventure you crave, a new Michigan social community aims to connect members with adventure and each other.

Swim Teal Lake benefits the U.P. Diabetes Outreach Network and welcomes champion swimmer Gary Hall Jr., who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1999.

Hammocks aren’t just for trees anymore. Enjoy hanging out in a new and improved way this summer.

Bikes and Mackinac Island are a perfect pairing. If your summer plans include an island trip, bring your bike or plan on renting one during your stay.

This gluten-free recipe attempts to make crumble bars healthier by replacing white sugar with a brown sugar, honey combination and chocolate with carob chips.

Read about some of the best summer backpacking trails in Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula.

Check out one of these park locations for free outdoor movie screenings this summer.

If you're looking to explore Michigan's state parks this summer but want to avoid the crowds, here are six hidden gems to check out.

Do you love Michigan's great outdoors? Got questions about camping, hiking, biking or more? Join the #MIBigGreenGym Twitter chat June 27 at 11 a.m.

Throw away some stress and get a low-impact workout in with a round of disc golf.

Staying at the Grand Hotel this summer? You’ll notice updated and refreshed spaces that welcome guests to the storied hotel’s 130th season.

North Manitou Island offers breathtaking views of Michigan’s national lakeshore and a true backcountry camping experience.

Experience more Michigan destinations this summer without spending a lot of money through the Michigan Activity Pass program.

Start the Cycle is a Marquette-based organization that pairs kids with mountain bikes and mentors, with the goal of instilling confidence.

If you enjoy Short’s Brewing Company’s Soft Parade, a fruit rye ale, you’ll love this summery salad featuring a vinaigrette made with the popular beer.

Meet the Blue Cross Blue Shield #MIKidsCan Champion of the month, Caleb Neubecker of Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

Add Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring to your travel bucket list, pronto. Here’s everything to know before you go.

Looking for a new way to get outside with your dog during the winter months? Check out skijoring.

Every season is the right season to explore the Black Rocks at Marquette’s Presque Isle Park.

Generations of local youth have honed their ski jumping skills at the Ishpeming Ski Club. Find out why the sport continues to be a draw.

Goalball levels the playing field for visually impaired athletes. Here’s a look at how it’s played.

Chocolates and flowers? Yawn. Be adventurous as you plan this year’s big date.

Want to get away from it all? Bundle up and find your new favorite quiet winter recreation spot in Michigan.

Ten reasons we love Michigan, in celebration of our state’s 180th birthday.

Take back your vacation time this year by planning a getaway closer to home. These tips will get you started.

From Marquette to Detroit, Michiganders have no shortage of festive community events to choose from as they ring in the New Year.

Michigan cyclists are pushing for expanded laws to keep them safe on the road. Here’s what they’re doing and how you can help.

The Fresh Coast Film Festival debuts in Marquette this week, with more than 50 adventure-filled documentaries and short films. Find out what’s in store.

A Healthier Michigan team member Lucy shares tips from her first visit to a Michigan farmers market. Here’s what she discovered.

Our September champion is a deserving seven-year-old who’s committed to living an active, healthy lifestyle. Meet Arianna Maldonado.

Find out why running insiders think the Marquette Marathon should be on your running bucket list.

Check out these tips and tricks so you’re not really “roughing it” before your first big camping trip.

Find out how you can celebrate the National Parks’ centennial right here in Michigan.

Hundreds of bicycle races are taking place this summer, but ones in August look particularly interesting.

Grilled pizzas are an easy meal in the summer. Try this recipe for a gourmet-style pizza.

The new millennial trend, hanging a hammock between two trees, is changing the way Michiganders relax, camp and sleep. Have you tried one yet?

Have some fun in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this summer at these family-friendly events – all for free!

There are plenty of delicious and unique ways to preserve your cherries without the typical methods such as canning or preserving as a jam. Here are some ideas.

Summer’s just about here, which means you’re ready to plan a perfect summer stay-cation. So where should you go?

Here are five unique Michigan downhill ski locations to hit the slopes at and enjoy the snow before the weather takes a turn for the warmth of spring.

From our Petoskey stones to the Mighty Mac, Michiganders take pride in the many things that make our state so unique. Here are some you may not know about.

When the snow starts flying, it’s time to head outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s how to make the most of a Michigan winter.

The Healthier Michigan team shares some small business favorites in this roundup of Michigan shops and companies to consider for your holiday gift list.

Travel around Michigan and you’ll come across example after example of amazing public art. Here are six you shouldn’t miss.

Are you afraid of the dark? Embrace it at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, one of fewer than 30 such designated parks in the world.

Fayette Historic State Park in Manistique recently got a makeover courtesy of the group Michigan Cares for Tourism.

Michigan isn’t just home to lost of great craft beer. These local distilleries create unique made-in-the-Mitten-state whiskey, gin, vodka and more.

A pink concrete mixer draws stares and raises breast cancer awareness in Traverse City. Here’s how it got started.

Get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of Michigan in the fall with a special week devoted to celebrating Michigan’s trails.

Tackling your first Iceman Slush Cup in November? Make the most of your fall training with these tips!

The 87th annual Upper Peninsula State Fair starts Monday. This year’s theme is “Mother Nature’s Open House,” and a week of family-friendly fun is planned.

Chuck Gaidica gives tips about taking a hike at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

Sending kids to Michigan summer camps can get them to be physically active, allow them to meet new friends and try new things while being outside.

There are so many things to do over the summer in Michigan, it’s hard to keep track of them all. That’s where this list comes in.

Spending a weekend sleeping under the stars can help you relax and reconnect with nature. Here are eight spots to give it a try in Michigan.

Did you know, thousands of kids around the world participate in triathlons each year? In fact, USA Triathlon

Tim Brick, owner of Brick Wheels in Traverse City, shares his top picks for riding in and around the city.

Michigan Cares for Tourism is cleaning up Sturgeon Point Lighthouse just in time for its Memorial Day weekend opening. Read about why you should check it out!

Looking for eco-friendly duds in Michigan? We’ve got you covered across the state.

Olympic curler Debbie McCormick recently visited Traverse City to compete in the Cherry Bombspiel tournament. She gave a pep talk to students while in town.

Debbie McCormick is an Olympian-level curler. She’ll be in Traverse City this week for the Cherry Bombspiel tournament.