For the uninitiated, Mackinac Island (pronounced Mackinaw) is a 3.8 square mile island in the upper corner of Lake Huron. It is famous for its resort accommodations, notably the historic and aptly named Grand Hotel, as well as the fact that motor vehicles are not allowed on the island. Special exceptions are granted for construction and repair equipment, but to this day transportation is limited to bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and of course walking.

By the time I had gotten off the ferry at the end of my trip, my step tracker had clocked about 7.5 miles. I especially enjoyed the paths through the woods away from the more popular tourist areas. Did I mention that it was a perfect 69º day with a nice light breeze? I couldn't have ordered a more perfect day for visiting the island. Not to mention getting some nice snapshots. My dad has fond memories of his dad taking the family to stay at the Grand Hotel and the swim in the hotel pool, so of course I had to grab a couple of pictures for him!

Once off the ferry I headed back toward Iron Mountain on a gorgeous drive skirting the top of Lake Michigan. Even the rest stop was gorgeous with a short boardwalk to the beach. A great way to cap off the Upper Peninsula portion of my journey.

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Camping Must-Haves of the Day

Jackery Explorer 500

This 500w battery is at the heart of this whole trip. I have sleep apnea and require a CPAP machine to sleep, so none of this would be possible without this wee-beastie. It charges off the car while I drive, and keeps all of my other rechargable and plug-in devices up and going.

Battery Operated Fan

Even on cooler nights an enclosed car can get a little stuffy. This little rechargeable fan with three settings and built-in optional light has been a huge blessing.

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