Weekend Getaway: Discovering Michigan’s Fall Beauty

Every trip starts with an idea, and this one was no different. Planning a short weekend escape to celebrate my wife’s birthday amidst the breathtaking fall colors of Michigan’s wilderness took almost two weeks. Though the time was limited, the desire to combine natural beauty and meaningful celebration made it worthwhile.

Day 1: October 9th, 2020 – Starting the Adventure

The first day of our trip began early after we had completed work. We packed our bags, fueled by the excitement of a weekend getaway, and hit the road toward Escanaba, Michigan. The journey was long but filled with anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Arriving in Escanaba very late, we checked into a cozy hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s exploration. Despite the late-night arrival, the peaceful atmosphere of Escanaba set the tone for the trip.

Day 2: October 10th, 2020 – Exploring Fall’s Splendor

We started our day bright and early, leaving Escanaba, Michigan, with Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park as our ultimate destination for the day. The crisp morning air and anticipation of exploring more of Michigan’s fall beauty fueled our journey.

Stop 1: Preacher Park, L’Anse, MI

Our first stop was Preacher Park in L’Anse. Nestled amidst vibrant fall colors, this serene spot was the perfect place for a quick lunch. The golden leaves and tranquil atmosphere made it a photographer’s dream and an ideal location to pause and take in the beauty of the season.

Stop 2: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

From there, we continued to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, a highlight of the trip. Known for its rugged terrain and stunning vistas, the park offered us endless opportunities to immerse ourselves in nature. The vibrant hues of the foliage added a magical touch to our experience.

Driving Through Mastodon Township

While driving toward our next destination, we passed through Mastodon Township. This charming township, surrounded by picturesque landscapes, was a delightful surprise along the way. The natural beauty of the area left us in awe and eager for more exploration.

After a fulfilling day of exploring, we headed back to Escanaba for the night. The drive back gave us time to reflect on the day’s adventures, and the warm comfort of our hotel was a welcome respite after a day full of memorable moments.

Day 3: October 11th, 2020 – A Birthday Celebration in Nature

The final day of our trip was centered around memorably celebrating my wife’s birthday. We began our day early, leaving Escanaba, Michigan, and setting out for Kitch-iti-kipi. The day’s journey was filled with picturesque stops and meaningful moments.

Stop 1: Thompson Township, MI

Our first stop was in Thompson Township, where we enjoyed a peaceful morning and completed our breakfast. The small-town charm and beautiful surroundings set the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Clear Lake

On the way to our destination, we quickly stopped at Clear Lake. The tranquil waters and vibrant fall colors provided the perfect backdrop for some photography. It was a brief but rewarding detour.

Stop 3: Kitch-iti-kipi – A Magical Celebration

We finally reached Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. The crystal-clear turquoise water and serene surroundings made it an incredible spot to celebrate my wife’s birthday. We cut the cake amidst nature, creating a beautiful memory to cherish forever.

Heading Back Home

After the celebration, it was time to start our journey back home. The drive gave us time to reflect on the weekend’s adventures, the fall beauty we witnessed, and the special moments we shared. It was the perfect end to a memorable trip.