Visiting Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan commonly refers to the Northern region of Michigan's lower peninsula, where over 95% of the state's population live. The northern land mass of Michigan is called the Upper Peninsula and contains nearly a quarter of the state's land area, but a small portion of residents. Linking the two peninsula's the Mackinac Bridge, or Big Mac, carries travelers along Interstate 75 across the straight of Mackinac. The longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere, the Mackinac Bridge measures between anchorages, not the length of the center span. By any measure, it is a beautiful sight, and the commercial and recreation gateway to Northern Michigan's amazing outdoor regions.

Fall is an amazing time to visit the seven million acres of pristine forests and lakes of the Upper Peninsula. St Ignace greets travelers to the land above the bridge, with a variety of fall events and activities. October 2010 brings the 2nd Annual Fall Colors Mackinac Bridge Race, downtown St Ignace's Autumn Apple Days and Great Pumpkin Roll and the final Bayside Farmer's Market. Called the Magical Harbor, St Ignace is home to the Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront. Located on the shores of Lake Huron on 11 acres of beautiful secluded land, this hotel is perfect for a getaway. With indoor and outdoor pools, spas, and views of Mackinac Island from your room's private balcony, there is no better setting.

An outdoor enthusiast's paradise Michigan Upper Peninsula is home to a variety of wildlife including birds and reptiles. Hunters will flock to the region the beginning of October, for the opening day of archery deer hunting season. The last half of November brings the firearm deer hunting season. The Ottawa and Hiawatha National Forests are part of the recreational forest land on the U.P., which also includes Michigan's highest peak – Mount Arvon.

Northern Michigan on the Lower Peninsula is also a land of amazing outdoor beauty and resources. Surrounded on three sides by the waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, the region offers seemingly endless recreational opportunities. Popular vacation destinations abound from the two lake town of Onekama, Traverse City on the Grand Traverse Bay and Mackinac Island.

Harbor Springs host its inaugural Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and kids race October 2010. This replaces the marathon, offering the community a more popular race. Sponsored by the Outfitter, the start and finish for the events is Zorn Park in downtown Harbor Springs. Petosky and other Northern Michigan communities celebrate the Eighth Annual CS Lewis Festival through November 22nd, 2010. This unique festival features scholars Dr Diana Glyer and Douglas Anderson presenting on the literary achievements of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien the weekend of October 22nd and 23rd.

The Best Western of Harbor Springs and the Best Western Inn of Petosky are ideal for lodging in the area. With comfortable rooms and reasonable rates, choose Best Western Hotels and enjoy your stay in Northern Michigan.

Northern Michigan Hotel Map