Embracing Life in Northern Michigan: A Native’s Hidden Gem

I feel incredibly fortunate to live in beautiful Northern Michigan, where I am blessed with an every-day front row seat to the simplistic and comfortable life that I love to write about on a daily basis. The peaceful surroundings of our family farm contribute to a quiet, rustic, and simple way of life that resonates deeply with me. It’s in these serene moments that I find inspiration, and I often ponder how different things would be if we had chosen to live in a bigger, more urban area. Undoubtedly, the aesthetics and pace of life would not align with the picturesque and tranquil existence that we cherish here.

The Natural Beauty

One of the most enjoyable reasons to live in Northern Michigan is its stunning natural beauty. The region is home to pristine lakes, dense forests, and rolling hills. The Great Lakes, particularly Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, give endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and beachcombing. In the fall, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. We are quickly coming into my absolute favorite time of year, which I’m sure I share with every other Northern Michigan native. Fall in Northern Michigan is one of those events that you can’t describe; you just have to see it. I’m pretty sure that even God the Father looks down and says, “Oh my, but that is pretty…” Cool days, chilly nights, apple cider and doughnuts, bonfires, football, and fall color tours are just a few of the things that embody fall in Northern Michigan. The trees blaze with color, seeming to compete, seeing which one can put on the most beautiful display. The air turns crisp, scented with the smells of wood smoke, apples, pumpkins, and local baked goods. Local farms come alive with corn mazes, pick-your-own pumpkin patches, apple cider and doughnut tastings, and apple picking. Every year, Mother Nature really puts on a show and we are all fortunate enough to see it.

Small Town Charm

Northern Michigan is dotted with quaint small towns that exude charm and hospitality. Places like Traverse City, Petoskey, and Charlevoix are known for their picturesque downtowns, local shops, and friendly communities. Traverse City, for instance, is famous for its cherry orchards and the annual National Cherry Festival, which attracts visitors from all over the country¹. Petoskey, with its historic Gaslight District, offers a delightful mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences¹. The privilege of living in a small Northern Michigan town is something that can be taken for granted, especially for someone like me, who has lived up here my entire life. We who live in the Northern Lower Peninsula (trolls) sometimes wish to live in the “true North”, the Upper Peninsula. of Michigan. Towns like Escanaba, Garden Corners, Paradise, Marquette, Seney, L’Anse, just to name a few, bring the idea of Northern Michigan living to a whole new level. Growing up in northern Lower Michigan, many weekends of my childhood were spent in all of these places in the Upper Peninsula, especially Taquamenon Falls State Park. The natural beauty exhibited there is nothing short of amazing and well worth the visit.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the outdoors, Northern Michigan is a four-season playground. In the winter, the region becomes a haven for snow sports enthusiasts, with many ski resorts and snowmobile trails. In the warmer months, hiking, biking, and camping are popular activities. The expansive network of trails and pathways offers breathtaking views of the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to serene lakeshores. The crystal-clear waters of the Great Lakes provide ample opportunities for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The region is also home to numerous charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and history waiting to be explored. Whether it’s indulging in delicious local cuisine, browsing through artisanal shops, or attending lively cultural events, Northern Michigan offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with its towering sand dunes and scenic trails, is a must-visit destination, captivating adventurers and photographers with its striking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Word from a native: if you want to camp in Northern Michigan, make your reservations early. Most campgrounds up here are extremely busy all spring/summer/fall as our warm weather is sometimes short-lived.

Conclusion

Living in Northern Michigan is about embracing a lifestyle that values nature, community, and simplicity. It’s a place where you can enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, the warmth of small-town living, and the opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you’re looking for a place that offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, Northern Michigan may just be the perfect place to call home.

Have you ever visited Northern Michigan, or are you considering making it your home? I’d love to hear your thoughts!