Northern Michigan

Amazing Autumn scenery, forests with lake, Fall colors, Aerial view.
Northern Michigan

Peak Times for Fall Color Across Michigan

The beautiful orange, red, and yellow leaves of fall are almost here! Find out when you should plan your color tour to make the most of the autumn splendor.

The UP Eben Ice Caves.
Northern Michigan

The Upper Peninsula’s Eben Ice Caves: Winter Hiking 101

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is full of surprises, including winter ice caves. Get helpful tips on how to hike properly in the winter.

Dune grass at Sleeping Bear Dunes
Northern Michigan

Protect Our National Parks

As the National Parks System celebrates it’s centennial, it’s important for visitors to know a few rules when visiting them.

Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis
Northern Michigan

Three Places To View Michigan’s Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are tricky to plan for and often unpredictable. Here are some tips and a few of the best places to view them in Michigan.

family hiking on trail in the woods
Northern Michigan

Hiking in Michigan: Where to Go and How to Start 

Hiking in Michigan? This comprehensive guide includes tips on what to pack, how much food and drink you’ll need and how to stay safe on the trail.

Man in action of pulling rope
Northern Michigan

Michigan Water and Boating: Summer Safety

Whether you’re on the water for a short period of time or the whole day, make sure you are practicing safe practices and are aware of your surroundings.

Northern Michigan

Your Guide to Finding and Cooking with the Elusive Morel Mushroom

Morel mushrooms usually grow in the wild and are rarely farmed. We share how to find them in nature and prepare them for a dish when you do.

Sleeping Bear Dunes and Lake Michigan
Northern Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Sleeping Bear Dunes is located in Empire, Michigan and has many natural wonders. Read about plans to celebrate this popular attraction’s 50th anniversary.

Turkey Trots in Michigan
Northern Michigan

Run for Your Dinner: Sign Up for Michigan Turkey Day Races

Make a dent in the caloric damage you’ll do on Thanksgiving with one of these fun community turkey runs.

Michigan Halloween
Northern Michigan

Tricks and Treats: Halloween Events for the Entire Family

Whether you are more of a trick or a treat person, these Halloween events across Michigan are certain to be fun for the entire family.

Image of two schoolgirls walking home from school.
Northern Michigan

Why Safe Routes to Schools Matter

In this guest post from Ty Schmidt, executive director of Traverse City-based non-profit organization Norte, learn why walkable communities are good for health.

Michigan Tourism
Northern Michigan

Tourism Pros Revitalizing Leelanau State Park Lighthouse

Michigan is blessed to have a booming tourism industry that gets by with a little help from volunteers in organizations such as Michigan Cares for Tourism.

Pasties cooling
Northern Michigan

The History of an Up North Staple: Pasties

Michiganders are known for loving their pasties, but how many of us know the story behind them? Discover the history here.

blueberry on plant
Northern Michigan

August Blueberry Festivals in the Great Lakes State

Learn more about the blueberry festivals happening in Michigan this August.

Staff of the After 26 Depot Cafe
Northern Michigan

Cadillac’s After 26 Depot Cafe: Serving Up Work Skills and Good Eats

The After 26 Depot provides great food to the Cadillac community and the restaurant employs adults with cognitive impairments and developmental disabilities.

Beautiful image of red cherries against green leaves and a blue sky.
Northern Michigan

MI Celebrates National Cherry Month

February is National Cherry Month. Learn how Michigan cherry producers contribute enormously to the nation’s supply and how the fruit is harvest and processed.

Smiling people holding 2019 sparklers
Northern Michigan

8 Places to Ring in 2019 Across Michigan

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are eight fun ways to ring in 2019 across Michigan.

Image of a baby playing on the beach with sand toys.
Northern Michigan

Sunscreen Dispensers: Healthy Trend Spreading Through Michigan’s U.P.

An organization called Just Believe is working to spread sunscreen dispensers throughout U.P. communities, in memory of a loved one lost to skin cancer.

Taquamenon Falls in summer
Northern Michigan

Must-Visit Waterfalls in Michigan

With scenic views, rolling waters and untouched wildlife, Michigan waterfalls offer a serene getaway that will satisfy anyone’s nature needs.

Image of Mackinac Island taken from Fort Mackinac.
Northern Michigan

Island Living: For Mackinac Full-Timers, A Different Way of Life

Ever dreamed of living on Mackinac Island? One resident explains why she loves island living and what those considering a big move might want to consider.

mackinac bridge
Northern Michigan

Across the Straits: The Iconic Mackinac Bridge

The Mighty Mac turns 60 in 2017. Find out what it took to cross the Straits of Mackinac before the bridge’s opening in 1957.

Children play at the Water Warrior Island aquatic park
Northern Michigan

New Floating Playgrounds for Your Next Family Day Trip

Three state parks have taken the term “playground” to a new level … sea level! Learn how these destinations will ensure fun for all ages this summer.

Fishtown pictured on a summer day with the Leland River's aqua blue waters gently rolling over the historical dam and mixing with the pristine waters of Lake Michigan
Northern Michigan

Go Back in Time at Northern Michigan’s Fishtown

A magical Michigan village located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan offers tourists a look back in time at Fishtown’s historical fishing community.

Best hikes in Michigan
Northern Michigan

Tales from the Trail: Favorite Michigan Hikes

There is something about “unplugging” from busy day-to-day lives and then recharging in the Michigan backcountry.

Image captures runners in motion from a perspective of their lower legs and feet.
Northern Michigan

Hope Starts Here Challenge Supports Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center

On your mark. Get set. Hope. This annual fundraiser for the Upper Michigan Brain Tumor Center includes events for everyone to participate in.

Northern Michigan

How to Start Ice Climbing in Michigan

Ice climbing is a great way to get outdoors, be active and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery a Michigan winter can offer.

Northern Michigan

Michigan February Bucket List: 10 Ways to Warm Up the Shortest Month

Feel the love this February by stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something new.

Two kids coming down a water slide
Northern Michigan

Make a Splash at Michigan’s Indoor Water Parks

Michigan is beautiful, but beach season is short. If you’re craving warmth and water, you’re only a road trip away from one of these indoor water parks.

Front porch decorated for fall
Northern Michigan

DIY Michigan Crafts to Decorate Your Home for Fall

Try these Michigan themed crafts to bring the beauty of the fall season into your home!

Northern Michigan

Haunted Michigan: Make Supernatural Plans for a Memorable Halloween

Looking to up your Halloween game? Check out these real-life haunted destinations.

night time scene with string lights and a red arrow with a sign attached to it.
Northern Michigan

Beyond the Pumpkin Patch: Fall and Halloween Activities to Explore Across Michigan

Michigan offers many unique excursions during the fall and Halloween season. Try one of these suggestions!

Northern Michigan

8 Tips to Start a Successful Walk to School Day in Your Neighborhood

Walk to School Day takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017. Get tips from the organizer of Traverse City’s successful program, which has grown every year.

Northern Michigan

Best Hiking Trails in Northern Michigan

Start planning your Northern Michigan hiking adventure here.

lavender labyrinth cherry point farm
Northern Michigan

West Michigan Farm is Home to a Spectacular Lavender Labyrinth

Located just minutes from the shores of Lake Michigan in Shelby, a lavender labyrinth attracts visitors from all over the world.

Northern Michigan

Where to Hike in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to hike in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Find out where to get started here.

Northern Michigan

Have an Old-Fashioned Family Vacation in the Alpena Area

Looking for your next Pure Michigan vacation destination? Alpena just might be the place!

Northern Michigan

Eat Healthier at Food Trucks with These Choices

Eating fresh, local ingredients is important for a healthy diet. Find out how Michigan food trucks can be part of yours.

Northern Michigan

A New Kind of Tour: Kayak, Bike and Brew

A new Traverse City company is offering an adventurous way to tour the city and its various breweries.

Northern Michigan

Want More Adventurous Friends? Try MiTribe

If the friends you keep aren’t always up for the adventure you crave, a new Michigan social community aims to connect members with adventure and each other.

Northern Michigan

U.P.’s Swim Teal Lake Event Welcomes Champion Swimmer

Swim Teal Lake benefits the U.P. Diabetes Outreach Network and welcomes champion swimmer Gary Hall Jr., who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1999.

Hammocraft on a lake.
Northern Michigan

What’s a Hammocraft?

Hammocks aren’t just for trees anymore. Enjoy hanging out in a new and improved way this summer.

Northern Michigan

Why Biking Mackinac Island is a Michigan Must

Bikes and Mackinac Island are a perfect pairing. If your summer plans include an island trip, bring your bike or plan on renting one during your stay.

Cherry, Coconut, Carob Chip Crumble Bars
Northern Michigan

Cherry, Coconut, Carob Chip Crumble Bars

This gluten-free recipe attempts to make crumble bars healthier by replacing white sugar with a brown sugar, honey combination and chocolate with carob chips.

Northern Michigan

The Best Trails to Backpack in Northern Lower Peninsula

Read about some of the best summer backpacking trails in Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula.

crowd of people watching movie outside
Northern Michigan

2017 Movies in the Park Roundup

Check out one of these park locations for free outdoor movie screenings this summer.

people swimming in a shallow waterfall
Northern Michigan

Hidden Gems: Six Michigan State Parks to Visit This Summer

If you're looking to explore Michigan's state parks this summer but want to avoid the crowds, here are six hidden gems to check out.

A man watches the sunset on a lake
Northern Michigan

#MIBigGreenGym: Michigan Outdoors Twitter Chat June 27

Do you love Michigan's great outdoors? Got questions about camping, hiking, biking or more? Join the #MIBigGreenGym Twitter chat June 27 at 11 a.m.

Northern Michigan

Why You Should Give Disc Golfing a Spin

Throw away some stress and get a low-impact workout in with a round of disc golf.

white rocking chairs on a sea foam green deck
Northern Michigan

New Suites, Renovations Greet Guests for Grand Hotel’s 130th Season

Staying at the Grand Hotel this summer? You’ll notice updated and refreshed spaces that welcome guests to the storied hotel’s 130th season.

Manitou Island
Northern Michigan

A Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking Michigan’s Manitou Islands

North Manitou Island offers breathtaking views of Michigan’s national lakeshore and a true backcountry camping experience.

Explore Michigan
Northern Michigan

Best Summer Ever: Explore Michigan Art, History, Adventure and More

Experience more Michigan destinations this summer without spending a lot of money through the Michigan Activity Pass program.

Start the Cycle
Northern Michigan

Cycling to Confidence: Marquette Organization Builds Kids Up with Bikes

Start the Cycle is a Marquette-based organization that pairs kids with mountain bikes and mentors, with the goal of instilling confidence.

Cucumber and Strawberry Salad with Short's Soft Parade Vinaigrette
Northern Michigan

Cucumber and Strawberry Salad with Short’s Soft Parade Vinaigrette

If you enjoy Short’s Brewing Company’s Soft Parade, a fruit rye ale, you’ll love this summery salad featuring a vinaigrette made with the popular beer.

Caleb Neubecker
Northern Michigan

#MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Caleb Neubecker

Meet the Blue Cross Blue Shield #MIKidsCan Champion of the month, Caleb Neubecker of Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

Kitch-iti-kipi
Northern Michigan

Why Kitch-iti-kipi is a Must-Visit Michigan Natural Attraction

Add Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring to your travel bucket list, pronto. Here’s everything to know before you go.

skiing with dogs
Northern Michigan

Skiing with Dogs? Check Out Michigan’s Trails While Skijoring {Video}

Looking for a new way to get outside with your dog during the winter months? Check out skijoring.

hiking to black rocks
Northern Michigan

Why Hiking to Marquette’s Black Rocks is Worth It

Every season is the right season to explore the Black Rocks at Marquette’s Presque Isle Park.

Ishpeming Ski Club
Northern Michigan

Jump to It: Ishpeming Ski Club Helps Kids Stay Active Through the Winter

Generations of local youth have honed their ski jumping skills at the Ishpeming Ski Club. Find out why the sport continues to be a draw.

goalball
Northern Michigan

Goalball: Fast-Paced Game Growing in Popularity for Visually Impaired Players

Goalball levels the playing field for visually impaired athletes. Here’s a look at how it’s played.

have a valentine's day adventure
Northern Michigan

Cancel Your Reservations: Plan for Adventure this Valentine’s Day

Chocolates and flowers? Yawn. Be adventurous as you plan this year’s big date.

Michigan's best quiet winter recreation spots
Northern Michigan

Tahquamenon and Beyond: Michigan’s Best Quiet Winter Recreation Spots

Want to get away from it all? Bundle up and find your new favorite quiet winter recreation spot in Michigan.

10 reasons we love michigan
Northern Michigan

Happy 180th Birthday, Michigan!

Ten reasons we love Michigan, in celebration of our state’s 180th birthday.

Plan a Michigan vacation
Northern Michigan

Don’t Waste Your Time Off this Year

Take back your vacation time this year by planning a getaway closer to home. These tips will get you started.

celebrate new years in michigan
Northern Michigan

Hello, 2017! Ways to Celebrate the New Year in Michigan

From Marquette to Detroit, Michiganders have no shortage of festive community events to choose from as they ring in the New Year.

Michigan cyclists pushing for safer laws
Northern Michigan

Cyclists Pushing to Make Michigan Roads Safer

Michigan cyclists are pushing for expanded laws to keep them safe on the road. Here’s what they’re doing and how you can help.

Fresh Coast Film Festival
Northern Michigan

Celebrate Michigan Outdoors at Marquette’s Fresh Coast Film Festival

The Fresh Coast Film Festival debuts in Marquette this week, with more than 50 adventure-filled documentaries and short films. Find out what’s in store.

Farmers market vegetables
Northern Michigan

What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Michigan Farmers Market

A Healthier Michigan team member Lucy shares tips from her first visit to a Michigan farmers market. Here’s what she discovered.

Arianna Maldonado
Northern Michigan

#MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Arianna Maldonado

Our September champion is a deserving seven-year-old who’s committed to living an active, healthy lifestyle. Meet Arianna Maldonado.

Marquette marathon
Northern Michigan

Why the Marquette Marathon Should Be On Your Running Bucket List

Find out why running insiders think the Marquette Marathon should be on your running bucket list.

How to camp
Northern Michigan

Camping 101: What You Need to Know

Check out these tips and tricks so you’re not really “roughing it” before your first big camping trip.

100th anniversary of national parks
Northern Michigan

Happy 100th Birthday to the National Park Service!

Find out how you can celebrate the National Parks’ centennial right here in Michigan.

Michigan bike races
Northern Michigan

Michigan August Bicycle Races You Need To Know About

Hundreds of bicycle races are taking place this summer, but ones in August look particularly interesting.

cherry goat cheese naan pizza
Northern Michigan

Grilled Cherry, Goat Cheese and Arugula Naan Pizza

Grilled pizzas are an easy meal in the summer. Try this recipe for a gourmet-style pizza.

Hammocks in Michigan
Northern Michigan

Hangin’ in Hammocks: A Michigan Guide

The new millennial trend, hanging a hammock between two trees, is changing the way Michiganders relax, camp and sleep. Have you tried one yet?

Michigan's best parks
Northern Michigan

5 Free Summer Events in the U.P.

Have some fun in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this summer at these family-friendly events – all for free!

cherries in baskets
Northern Michigan

Celebrate the National Cherry Festival All Year Long

There are plenty of delicious and unique ways to preserve your cherries without the typical methods such as canning or preserving as a jam. Here are some ideas.

Lesser-known Michigan lake towns
Northern Michigan

9 Under-the-Radar Favorite Locales for a Mitten-cation

Summer’s just about here, which means you’re ready to plan a perfect summer stay-cation. So where should you go?

michigan ski resorts
Northern Michigan

5 Michigan Ski Locations to Hit the Slopes at this Winter

Here are five unique Michigan downhill ski locations to hit the slopes at and enjoy the snow before the weather takes a turn for the warmth of spring.

What makes Michigan unique
Northern Michigan

5 Fun Facts About Michigan

From our Petoskey stones to the Mighty Mac, Michiganders take pride in the many things that make our state so unique. Here are some you may not know about.

Make the most of a Michigan winter
Northern Michigan

Winter is for Adventure: Four Ways to Enjoy Michigan Outdoors this Season

When the snow starts flying, it’s time to head outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s how to make the most of a Michigan winter.

local shops for holiday gifts
Northern Michigan

Shop Local for Holiday Gifts

The Healthier Michigan team shares some small business favorites in this roundup of Michigan shops and companies to consider for your holiday gift list.

the art of Michigan
Northern Michigan

The Art of Michigan: Public Displays of Creativity Around the State

Travel around Michigan and you’ll come across example after example of amazing public art. Here are six you shouldn’t miss.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Northern Michigan

The Magic of Northern Michigan’s Dark Sky Park

Are you afraid of the dark? Embrace it at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, one of fewer than 30 such designated parks in the world.

Michigan cares for tourism
Northern Michigan

Historic Upper Peninsula Site Gets Makeover from Tourism Pros

Fayette Historic State Park in Manistique recently got a makeover courtesy of the group Michigan Cares for Tourism.

Michigan distilleries
Northern Michigan

7 Michigan Distilleries to Lift Your Spirits

Michigan isn’t just home to lost of great craft beer. These local distilleries create unique made-in-the-Mitten-state whiskey, gin, vodka and more.

team elmer's pink cement mixer
Northern Michigan

Pink Concrete Truck Drives Breast Cancer Awareness in Traverse City Area 

A pink concrete mixer draws stares and raises breast cancer awareness in Traverse City. Here’s how it got started.

Michigan Trails Week
Northern Michigan

Take a Hike: Michigan Celebrates Miles of Trails

Get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of Michigan in the fall with a special week devoted to celebrating Michigan’s trails.

Bell’s Iceman Cometh Challenge
Northern Michigan

Training Tips to Tackle Your First Iceman Slush Cup

Tackling your first Iceman Slush Cup in November? Make the most of your fall training with these tips!

U.P. State Fair
Northern Michigan

U.P. State Fair Showcases Nature’s Beauty and Bounty

The 87th annual Upper Peninsula State Fair starts Monday. This year’s theme is “Mother Nature’s Open House,” and a week of family-friendly fun is planned.

Northern Michigan

Chuck Gaidica: Hiking the Silver Lake Sand Dunes for Good Health

Chuck Gaidica gives tips about taking a hike at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

Northern Michigan

#MIKidsCan Camp: 6 Great Michigan Summer Camps

Sending kids to Michigan summer camps can get them to be physically active, allow them to meet new friends and try new things while being outside.

Northern Michigan

25 Reasons to Be Happy You Live in Michigan During the Summer

There are so many things to do over the summer in Michigan, it’s hard to keep track of them all. That’s where this list comes in.

Michigan parks
Northern Michigan

Eight Parks, Forests, Lakes & Beaches for Summer Camping

Spending a weekend sleeping under the stars can help you relax and reconnect with nature. Here are eight spots to give it a try in Michigan.

kid swimming
Northern Michigan

iSwim, iBike, iRun Helps Kids Become Triathletes

Did you know, thousands of kids around the world participate in triathlons each year? In fact, USA Triathlon

biking traverse city
Northern Michigan

The Insider’s Guide to the Best Biking Near Traverse City

Tim Brick, owner of Brick Wheels in Traverse City, shares his top picks for riding in and around the city.

Sturgeon-Point
Northern Michigan

Sturgeon Point Lighthouse Getting Makeover In Time for Memorial Day

Michigan Cares for Tourism is cleaning up Sturgeon Point Lighthouse just in time for its Memorial Day weekend opening. Read about why you should check it out!

green-clothes
Northern Michigan

Wear Your Conscience: 5 Michigan Shops to “Green” Up Your Wardrobe

Looking for eco-friendly duds in Michigan? We’ve got you covered across the state.

curling superstar
Northern Michigan

#MIKidsCan: Curling Superstar Shares Positive Message with Traverse City Students

Olympic curler Debbie McCormick recently visited Traverse City to compete in the Cherry Bombspiel tournament. She gave a pep talk to students while in town.

Northern Michigan

Olympian Debbie McCormick Shares Her Curling Secrets

Debbie McCormick is an Olympian-level curler. She’ll be in Traverse City this week for the Cherry Bombspiel tournament.

Pure-Michigan
Northern Michigan

Pure Michigan Campaign Closing In On a Decade of Luring Visitors to the State

As the Pure Michigan advertising campaign approaches one decade, see how it’s working to bring visitors to the state.

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
No Personal Healthcare Advice or Other Advice
This Web site provides general educational information on health-related issues and provides access to health-related resources for the convenience of our users. This site and its health-related information and resources are not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the care that patients receive from their physicians or other health care providers.
This site and its health-related information resources are not meant to be the practice of medicine, the practice of nursing, or to carry out any professional health care advice or service in the state where you live. Nothing in this Web site is to be used for medical or nursing diagnosis or professional treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding a health condition. You should not disregard medical advice, or delay seeking medical advice, because of something you read in this site.