St Ignace, Michigan

Straits of Mackinac out our front window

The Mackinac Bridge
A suspension bridge spanning the Straits of Mackinac to connect the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.  At 5 miles in length the Mackinac Bridge is currently the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world.  All suspension bridges are designed to move to accommodate wind, change in temperature, and weight. It is possible that the deck at center span could move as much as 35 feet (east or west) due to high winds. This would only happen under severe wind conditions. The deck would not swing or “sway” but rather move slowly in one direction based on the force and direction of the wind. After the wind subsides, the weight of the vehicles crossing would slowly move it back into center position.

Bridge View Park

During the construction of the Mackinac Bridge in the 1950’s, five men unfortunately lost their lives.

Our 1st Pastie
Pronounced pass-tee
These were first introduced to the UP in the mid 1800's by immigrants who came to work in the mines

Lake Huron from downtown St Ignace
Wawatam Lighthouse 

Saturday night fireworks over Lake Heron

Mackinac Island here we come

Everyone's bringing their bike

This side of the bridge we are on Lake Heron 

Now we are on Lake Michigan

The Island

Miniature Golf course 

Mackinac Island State Park, which is approximately 74% of the island's total area.
The park was first established as Mackinac National Park in 1875, which was the second national park established in the United States after Yellowstone National Park. In 1895, it was transferred to the state, which was the first state park in Michigan.

The Devil's Kitchen

The Grand Hotel

opened July 10, 1887

Mission Point Resort

Spotted a bald eagle on our morning bike ride to Bridge View park and back

"Big Mac"

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

View of the bridge from Mackinaw City

Kinda wanted to eat here but we were in search of the best pastie

and we found it

got an extra dozen for the freezer

Northern Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees along M-119 is one of the area’s most iconic attractions. The magical, scenic road winds from Harbor Springs to Cross Village. The Tunnel of Trees, ranked among the most scenic roads in the nation.

Tunnel of Trees becomes a narrow road that runs 20 miles along a spectacular bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, with especially sharp twists at Devil’s Elbow and at Horseshoe Curve. Along the way, you’ll find unique shops, must-try local restaurants, spectacular scenery and fascinating historical spots.

Good Hart, Michigan

Checking out the Eclipse with their special glasses

Harbor Springs, Michigan

I guess this saved them from having to repaint the center line

Legs Inn

Listed as a state of Michigan Historic Landmark 

Family owned and operated for over 90 years

Named for the cast iron stove legs that adorn the roof ’s rail

Part restaurant and part art gallery.  

Whimsical creations made of tree stumps, twisted limbs and root, natural sculptures of driftwood.

One of the remarkable things about Legs Inn is its success in spite of its remote location. It is located in tiny Cross Village, nearly 20 miles north of Harbor Springs, at the end of the Tunnel of Trees.

Authentic Polish food

Golabki (cabbage rolls), kielbasa and sauerkraut and pierogies

Old-Fashioned Polish Berry Szarlotka

Built on a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan