For residents of the Upper Peninsula – we proudly call ourselves “Yoopers” – springtime often requires patience if we are not one of the lucky ones to trek to a warmer climate during the winter. We wait for the temperatures to rise and the snow to melt.
We wait for the mud to dry up. We start our little seedlings for our garden and nurture them with everything we’ve got so they stay warm and grow into healthy plants.
We listen to reports from our lower peninsula counterparts about warm weather, green grass, daffodils and tulips in bloom, and the need for a simple light jacket.
Spring in the U.P. can feel like one of contrasts. A sunny, warm day can be followed by overcast skies and snow the next day. As Yoopers, we know better than to put away our cold weather gear as soon as the snow melts because it’s not unheard of to get a snowstorm in April or May. We know patience. And then, boom, summer has arrived!
Spring is a great time for people who want to sneak in a long weekend without the crowds and the bugs. This time of year in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can be joyful and full of activities that elude those who only visit in the summer or winter months.
Here are some of my favorite activities that offer fun experiences during this time of year:
1.) ROCK HOUNDING
If you’re a rock hound or want to check out the availability of rocks on the Lake Superior shoreline, now is a great time. You have the pick of the crop before the crowds make it here after Memorial Day.
2.) YOOPERLITE HUNTING
If you want to try your hand at finding the elusive Yooperlites you will need a special UV light and go hunting at night.
3.) WILDFLOWER HUNTING
Are you interested in checking out the spring wildflowers? In my opinion, nothing compares to the beautiful trillium that blooms for a short time in May. The trillium is protected, so take only pictures.
4.) FORAGING
Does foraging for wild edibles interest you? Late April and May is an incredible time for hunting for morel mushrooms and our favorite wild leeks, or ramps as they are sometimes called.
Foraging for wild edibles can be done on state land, but there are some restrictions which are outlined in the links.
5.) MUSEUMS AND LIGHTHOUSES
This is a great time to visit these places since the weather is cooler, and if you happen to catch a rainy day on your visit, it’s nice to have some indoor activities. Most of these places don’t open until Memorial Day, but you can still take a drive and check out some of the sights. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Paradise opens on May 1st and is a must-see destination.
6.) SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
This is also a must-see. A part of the US Forest and Wildlife Service, The refuge has a rich history of offering the public a chance to educate themselves and enjoy nature and wildlife. They open on May 15th and have many programs available throughout the season. May is the best time to see migratory birds. There is no charge to visit the refuge.
7.) GRAND MARAIS
One of my favorite places to visit. You can experience the beauty of Lake Superior with the amenities of shopping and dining. Here you’ll be able to access the beach if you’re interested in rock hunting. This is a great day trip as there’s lots to see and do in this town. And if you’re dressed and ready to take a hike, Sable Falls is a very short drive away from downtown Grand Marais and is a must-see as far as waterfalls.
8.) HIKING
If you want to meander off the beaten path and check out a lesser-known area for hiking and wildflower hunting, the Two Hearted River Forest Preserve will not disappoint.
This list is just a small offering of sightseeing in the area where you can capture the essence of spring in the Upper Peninsula. Most of these activities are free of charge and are suitable for any age. There is much more to see and do here in our beautiful neck of the woods, but as far as spring activities are concerned, you can’t go wrong with what I’ve outlined above.
I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to share your experiences and discoveries in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Springtime.
And if you need a place to stay while in the area, you can book with us here!
More later,
Nancy and Don