Journey Into Upper Michigan
After saying goodbye to lower Michigan, we embarked on our journey into Upper Michigan, which felt like an entirely different state! Surrounded by Great Lakes Huron, Michigan, and Superior, this region offers a secluded and serene escape perfect for anyone seeking nature therapy.
Crossing the Mackinac Bridge
The first step in reaching Upper Michigan involves crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge. Here are a few fun facts about this engineering marvel:
It’s one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, spanning five miles.
Nicknamed “The Mighty Mac,” it connects Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas.
Opened in 1957, it’s a critical link for residents and travelers alike.
Tips for Crossing the Bridge with an RV
Anticipate a Wait: We waited about 45 minutes due to traffic funneled down to two lanes because of construction. Summer is construction season in Michigan, so plan accordingly.
Check the Weather: High winds can make crossing tricky, especially with an RV. We were fortunate to have minimal winds during our crossing, making it much easier.
Use the Inside Lane: Although the outside lane might seem logical as the “slow lane,” the inside lane provides more stability for top-heavy vehicles like ours and gives extra reassurance.
Bring Your Camera: Don’t miss the chance to capture this iconic moment! Crossing the bridge is a milestone worth documenting, so make sure you have your camera at the ready.
St. Ignace: Our First Stop in Upper Michigan
Once across the bridge, we reached St. Ignace, a charming lakeside town where we stayed for several days. Our base was Lakeshore Campground, which had its pros and cons:
Pros: Stunning lakeside views, a private beach for the kids to explore, and a gorgeous view of the Mackinac Bridge, which lights up beautifully at night. Breathing in the salty lake air while watching the boys play on the sandy beach felt like pure therapy.
Cons: The sites were tight, and maneuvering our RV was challenging. David handled it like a pro, impressing even our neighbors with his parking skills. They complimented him, saying he drove like an experienced truck driver!
3 Must-Do Activities in St. Ignace
1. Get a Selfie with Paul and Babe, Then Hike Castle Rock
Start your adventure with a selfie alongside the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues before tackling Castle Rock. For just $1, you can climb to the top via a series of XX steps. The trail begins in a gift shop and winds up to incredible views of Lake Huron. The boys were a bit fussy, but we managed to wrangle them for a family portrait at the summit—a memory we’ll treasure.
2. Ice Cream and Fun at Wawatam Park
Head into town for a treat from the Double Decker Ice Cream Bus before letting the kids run wild at the sprayground in Wawatam Park. Don’t miss walking out to the Wawatam Lighthouse for stunning views of the water.
3. Picnic at Lakeview Cemetery
One of our favorite unexpected moments was discovering Lakeview Cemetery. Following a small path, we found a secluded picnic spot with breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and Lake Michigan. Eating our simple PB&J sandwiches while the boys played on the rocky shore felt magical. The laughter of the kids against the backdrop of the serene lake and majestic bridge made this spot feel like our little secret—just us and the peaceful cemetery residents.
Gateway to Mackinac Island
St. Ignace is also a hub for ferries heading to Mackinac Island. You can read all about our adventures on the island [here].
Have you been to Upper Michigan? What were your favorite spots? Let us know in the comments below!
