5 great places in Michigan for an outdoor adventure this summer

Looking for adventures in Michigan? The upper Midwestern state is home to some of the best outdoor activities thanks to its incredible varied landscape of lakes (plenty of them), forests, cliffs and beaches. From shipwreck snorkelling to stargazing, we pick five spots around Michigan to delight outdoor enthusiasts this summer…

Explore underwater Bay City, a shallow wreck at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (Jennifer Idol)

Combining the outdoors with fascinating marine history, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary preservers more than 100 shipwrecks of significant cultural heritage in Lake Huron, making it an important area for both historical and archaeological research. Take a tour on a glass-bottom boat which allows you to explore sunken ships without getting wet.

For those who’d prefer a closer inspection, from May to September the sanctuary maintains seasonal moorings for safe diving (of all levels) around the wrecks. There’s also plenty of shallow shipwrecks allowing snorkelling or kayaking from the shore.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Shutterstock)

This National Lakeshore owes its name to the stunning rock formations which tower up to 200m high on the southern shore of Lake Superior. With streaks of red, orange, blue and green, this is the most iconic area of the park, attracting many to hop in a kayak and take a closer look at the fascinating mineral walls.

Outdoor enthusiasts also come to Pictured Rocks to explore the 100 miles of walking trails. These will guide visitors to waterfalls, beaches, woodlands and even some cultural landmarks, with plenty of options of hour-long to day-long walks.

Milkyway in Michigan (Shutterstock)

Not every outdoor activity has to be done in daylight hours. Headlands is 550 acres of protected land sitting at the northern tip of the state, with more than two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline. It first became a Dark Sky Reserve in 2011, becoming the 6^th Reserve in the entire USA and 9^th in the world, and means the park will stay dark and protected forever. Take a stargazing trip and be amazed at how brightly the stars illuminate the sky, and if lucky, perhaps catch a viewing of the northern lights.

But that’s not all. Visit by day to explore the marked nature trails through the woodlands, where hikers and cyclists (and in winter, cross-country skiers) can experience the park’s beauty, and catch a glimpse of the local wildlife: bald eagles, ospreys, white-tailed deer, and sometimes even black bears.

Empire Bluffs Walk, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes (Shutterstock)

Situated on the northeast shore of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes became a National Lakeshore thanks to its incredible beauty. With large dunes, beaches, forests and ancient glacial phenomena, the landscape offers something for everyone. For those who like to explore on two wheels, follow the 20-mile heritage trail, the only paved multi-use trail in the park weaving it’s way through its top sights, including some unbelievable scenic lookout points. Afterwards, you can head to one of Sleeping Bear Dune’s wonderful beaches for an invigorating swim.

Light shining through the trees at Fernwood Nature Preserve (Shutterstock)

Away from the amazing Lakes, there’s still opportunities to be at one with nature in Michigan. Fernwood Botanical Gardens has an extraordinary display of colourful, cultivated flowers. But it’s the nature preserve which grabs our attention. Protecting endangered species of plants and animals, you can explore its 55 acres filled with dry and wet forests and carpets of wildflowers, while accompanied by the relaxing trickle of water from the countless streams and ponds. There’s a great selection of short trails to choose from – we suggest the Ecological Trail for seeing all the highlights!