25 Michigan outdoor adventures that should be on your bucket list

By Metro Times editorial staff on Thu, Aug 10, 2017 at 6:39 pm

We often forget just how much our state has to offer beyond the realm of our everyday lives. Here, 25 escapes that will make you fall in love with Pure Michigan all over again. PS- We hope you read this in Tim Allen's voice.

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Turnip Rock, Port Austin
A 7 mile out-and-back kayak trip on Lake Huron takes visitors straight to this natural anomaly. As topsy-turvy as it may appear, we promise the stunning fixture won’t come crashing down on you.
Photo via IG user @jaglever

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Miners Falls
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
This waterfall in northern Michigan is beautiful to look at but the real adventure is climbing down to stand in it. Climb down the steep hill from the overlook to stand on the rocks only feet away from the falling cascade.
Photo via IG user @kalpithakl

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Ocqueoc Falls
Millersburg
Ocqueoc Falls is the largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula and also one of the only accessible ones. Go for a hike on the six miles of trails and then cool off by taking a dip in the falls.
Photo via IG user @acsfkinga

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Point Abbaye’
Aura
Walk to this remote spot on a few miles of trails and reach the lookout point of Point Abbeye’. After taking in the beauty of our great state, you can take the trail back, or for the more adventurous, the shoreline. Walk along the rock cliffs and great pines for a daring hike and probably a few beautiful pictures.
Photo via IG user @paprikaangel

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Black Rocks
Marquette
In addition to expansive hiking trails and beautiful views of northern Michigan, Black Rocks is known as one of the most popular cliff diving spots. If you’re daring enough, jump off of the rocks over 15 feet down into chilly Lake Superior.
Photo via IG user @peacock_cards_

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Laughing Whitefish Falls
Munising area
Named one of the tallest waterfalls in Michigan, Laughing Whitefish Falls is a must go to if you are in the Upper Peninsula. There is a mile-long trail that leads to the top of the falls and then a staircase you can follow to the bottom. If you are feeling really adventurous, you can try climbing at the bottom of the falls, however we do advise that you climb at your own risk.
Photo via IG user @happyvanman

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Northwoods Adventures
Iron Mountain
Northwoods Adventures offers the ultimate rafting trip down the Menominee River. The half day trip takes you over rapids that are sure to get your heart pumping. If you are looking for a calmer adventure, try SUP (stand up paddleboard) yoga on the waters of the Upper Peninsula.
Photo via IG user @caseyhansley

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Little Presque Isle
Marquette
This quaint spot in northern Michigan is known as the crown jewel of Lake Superior. With its beautiful sand beaches, cliffs and breathtaking views, this is the perfect place for hiking and exploring the lakeshore. The rocky cliffs reach the bottom of Sugar Loaf Mountain, which is another spot to explore if you are looking to expand your hike.
Photo via IG user @lzghiardi

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Crystal Mountain
Thompsonville
Crystal Mountain is home to Michigan’s only alpine coaster, the Crystal Coaster. Ride the chairlift up to the top before hopping on a cart that will take you down the 1,700-foot-long curved track. This resort also has an adventure course, a climbing wall, paintball, laser tag, a disc golf course and opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.
Photo via Yelp user Crystal Mountain

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Hogback Mountain
Marquette
Getting to the top of this popular summit is a great feat, even for the best of hikers. The strenuous hike will take you up twisting, narrow trails, over rocks, and through swampy areas. However, the views at the top are breathtaking and worth the long trek.
Photo via Google reviewer Greg Mowatt

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Platte River
Honor
While this may not be the craziest adventure you will go on, it will most likely be one of the most relaxing. After you pick up a tube at Riverside Canoes, this slow moving river will take you on a trip all the way to Lake Michigan.
Photo via IG user @what.katiedid

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Bald Mountain Recreation Area
Lake Orion
This recreation area is known for its picturesque fishing and swimming spots. If you are looking for a challenge, hike the 15-mile marked trail that contains some of the most rugged terrain in southern Michigan.
Photo via IG user @linden_today

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Traverse City State Hospital Tour
Traverse City
It might not be Halloween yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good scare at this old psychiatric hospital. Listen to the creaks and moans as you walk the halls during the guided tour that takes you into the depths of the hospital.
Photo via IG user @dwanschura

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Oak Park
Grand Ledge
One of few places for actual, outdoor rock-climbing in the lower peninsula, Oak Park is the perfect destination for the Planet Rock enthusiast in your life. But be warned: No instruction or equipment is provided in the city-owned space.
Photo via Google user devin cooper

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Miners Castle Rock
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore There’s tons to do at the most famous formation of Pictured Rocks. Beach-walking (with gorgeous views), trail-hiking, and kayak tours are all available. If you’re feeling extra gutsy, check out some of the formation’s natural caves.
Photo via TripAdvisor user Mrs P

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Fayette Historic State Park
Upper Peninsula
History buffs, this one is for you. Fayette is home to a modern campground, a harbor slips, a boat launch, a beach, and five miles of trails for hiking. Yet the park’s central draw comes from the remains of a historic townsite that are available for exploration.
Photo via IG user @ager_meister

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Tahquamenon Falls
Paradise
We know, we know: Everyone and their mother has told you to take this trip, but why not take their advice? With hiking trails of varying difficulties and camping sites abound, there’s no reason not to finally make the Tahquamenon Trek (can we trademark that?).
Photo via IG user @kawainanda

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Kitch-iti-kipi
Manistique
Better known as the Big Spring, this 200-by-40-foot body of freshwater is the largest of its kind in Michigan. Visitors may take a tour by raft across the crystal-clear water.
Photo via IG user @jaredevangelista

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Gallup Park
Ann Arbor
This Ann Arbor recreational area offers every activity imaginable, from hiking trails to fishing. Not only that, but its canoe livery offers canoe, two-person kayak, one-person kayak, children’s kayak, paddleboat, and rowboat rentals in addition to concessions, merchandise and “river-themed programs.”
Photo via IG user @lastnameeverfirstname

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Nichols Arboretum
Affectionately called “The Arb” by many, this University of Michigan-owned space is tailored to those who prefer the road less traveled. Every trail is uniquely scenic, and if you get lost, you only need to follow the Huron River upstream.
Photo via IG user @jakethesnakeroberts

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25 Michigan outdoor adventures that should be on your bucket list

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