We have often been inspired by great Michigan writer Jim DuFresne, a veritable fountain of information and clear, concise information about great trails in Michigan. A great resource for hikes in Michigan, available on iTunes®, is Jim DuFresne's excellent book, Explorer's Guide: 50 Hikes in Michigan.
A Pleasant Peninsula.
Surrounded by the Great Lakes, Michigan is truly a natural wonderland for family travelers. To be a true Michigan Family Traveller, be sure your children know these fun facts about Michigan.
It was granted official status as a state on January 26, 1837.
The way to remember the five great lakes is HOMES:
Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior
The official motto of Michigan: "If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you."
A peninsula is a body of land surrounded by water on three sides-Michigan actually has two peninsulas- an Upper Peninsula and a Lower Peninsula!
State Parks!
The State Park system is phenomenal. Trails, beaches, camping. Family friendly and affordable. Check out the directory of information for the Michigan State Parks System.
"And the trees reached heavenward and our souls did soar..."
Four seasons of family adventure and togetherness.
Huron Clinton Metroparks
Located in the Metro-Detroit suburbs, this park system is perfect for picnics, bike riding, walks, and swimming-in convenient locations. From Kensington to Stony Creek, you can't go wrong!
Only have 3 hours to spend at Kensington Metro Park? Read this post for great ideas on how to spend it!
City and County Parks
Many counties have their own parks that feature playgrounds, picnic areas. Some even feature camping. The Alcona County Park is a down to earth get away in the Huron National Forest that features camping, fishing and kayaking on the Au Sable River. While Hines Park is a Wayne County Park in metro Detroit extending from Dearborn to Northville and features picnicking, paved biking and walking trails and playgrounds-but no camping. So, be sure to check each park for hours and features.
Looking to go for a walk in a suburban setting? Check out this walk at Dearborn's Ford Field.
Dark Sky Park
Michigan is open to one of the nation's few Dark Sky Parks. Located in the northern lower peninsula, the Headlands International Stark Park is perfect for star-gazing. Their 2017 schedule of events is now out!
National Parks, Forests and Lakeshores
From the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Parks and Lakeshores to Isle Royale to Lumberman's Monument in the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan has many great national treasures.
Want to read about biking at Maybury State Park, located in Northville, Michigan? Read this post from Michigan Family Travel.
Interested in going for a family friendly hike at Island Lake State Recreation Area in South Lyon, Michigan? Please read this post.
