Exploring The Marvels Of Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the second largest of the fresh water Great Lakes of North America. Stretching out an expanse of 22,500 square miles, the lake’s shoreline touches the four U.S. states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, acting as a hub of travel, commerce and recreation. Boaters, weekend campers and beach babes flock to its pristinely sand-fringed shores, while historic lighthouses, cobblestoned harbor towns and rocky bluffs overlooking shining turquoise waters draw crowds from far and wide.
The Lake Michigan waterfront has something for every type of traveler, with activities ranging from camping to sightseeing, pontooning to lighthouse-gazing, beachcombing to fishing. Boaters can cruise down the shoreline, exploring the dozens of charming towns that dot its banks – from scenic Door County in Wisconsin to Indiana Dunes National Park near Michigan City, Indiana. While cruisers, kayakers and paddleboarders flock to Michigan’s freshwater beaches, tourists and locals alike can explore a plethora of remarkable historical sites.
The Windy City, Chicago, Illinois is the most popular destination on Lake Michigan and it’s no surprise why. While the bustling city and all its wondrous attractions are too numerous to fit into one article, the lakeside views of the city alone are worth a visit. Whether standing at the top of Willis Tower, taking a stroll through Navy Pier or renting a kayak to explore the culturally-rich neighborhoods on the lake’s shore, one can easily understand why the Windy City charms millions of visitors each year.
Of course, for those who prefer to explore the lake’s many stretch of beaches, fishing is also a popular activity. There is no shortage of large, trophy-sized trout, salmon, walleye and whitefish, which can all be caught from Lake Michigan’s coast or from the piers and boats offshore. Whether you’ve chosen to fish from the shore, the boat or you’re a crazy enough to take a dip and dive for King Salmon, you’re bound to have a stunningly enjoyable time.
While a trip to Lake Michigan is incomplete without sampling the local suds. Home to an abundance of microbreweries and pubs, there is no shortage of places to imbibe. Whether drinking during sunset by the lake or nestled cozily in an endearing harbor town, there are plenty of places to sink back and enjoy a craft beer while drawing on the mesmerizing views of the expanse of blue waters.
Overall, Lake Michigan is the ultimate getaway. A choice of beaches, quaint villages, activities or attractions awaits the daring traveler, with something at every turn. Each sight boasting its own unique charm and historical significance and sure to satisfy any travel enthusiast and/or beer connoisseur.
Whether you’ve decided to take in the sunsets from the deck of a fishing boat or to take a leisurely stroll along the beach, there are a few things to consider before navigating Lake Michigan. First and foremost, it’s important to understand the lake’s current patterns and observe marine weather forecasts. Additionally, boaters should reference the resources available from local marinas, including navigation aids such as buoys and markers. There is also a variety of services and assistance aimed specifically at pleasure boaters and tourists, such as guided tours, equipment rental and even on-board charters.
One of the biggest issues that boaters face when navigating the lake is determining the appropriate travel route that accounts for marina and port locations, water depths and navigational hazards. As navigation charts and maps vary, it’s best to get advice from local professionals or knowledgeable friends. Navigating in unfamiliar waters can be tricky, but with a little bit of preparation, the journey can be a thrill.
Camping By The Lake
For those seeking to spend some quality time outdoors, camping along the lake is the perfect way to relax and experience the beauty of Lake Michigan up close. There are a variety of campgrounds located throughout the lake’s four states, ranging from tents to cabins to recreational vehicles. In particular, the Indiana Dunes National Park and the historic Headlands Park in Michigan, have become increasingly popular camping destinations.
Campers should familiarize themselves with the local regulations, rules and etiquette while visiting any of the state parks. This is of particular importance as parks and campgrounds near Lake Michigan typically become crowded, especially during summer months. However, with enough precautions and knowledge, camping by the lake can be a memorable and rewarding experience.
In addition to the camping areas, Lake Michigan is home to a variety of rustic cabins, cottages, resorts and lodges for those who prefer a less rugged outdoor adventure. Thus, regardless of the accommodation, campers should prepare in advance and make sure to bring along the necessary equipment and personal items, from food and water to insect repellents.
Safety Precautions While Visiting The Lake
Navigating, camping or simply taking a leisurely walk near Lake Michigan is likely to be a peaceful and pleasant experience, but there are some safety considerations that should be taken into account. For instance, since there are no lifeguards at most beaches, it is paramount to ensure that all beachgoers understand the basics of swimming, water safety and understand the water’s current. Additionally, it is essential not to underestimate the danger of jellyfish and other stinging sea creatures that may inhabit these areas.
Furthermore, during the hottest months of summer, those who opt for a dip would be served best by acclimating themselves in a lake-side pool available in many coastal towns, before venturing out and tackling the lake’s waves. Taking these precautions and applying some common sense will make the whole experience that much more enjoyable and safe.
Wildlife Along The Shoreline
The shoreline of Lake Michigan is home to a staggering array of wildlife, from aquatic plant life to most, if not all, types of terrestrial creatures. From tan game fish such as Lake trout and Chinooks, to waterfowl and nongame birds, pretty much every creature shares its habitat with the others peacefully. It’s not uncommon to spot Bald Eagles, who are known to hunt in the sky near the lake and can even be observed while they feed their young.
Moreover, the lake’s plant life, consisting of rare and endangered species, such as white cedar and wild orange orchids, can also be found along its expansive shores. Marine mammals, such as harbor seals and beluga whales, have also been reported to frequent its waters, with some enthusiasts regularly spotting them near the lake’s surface.
Lake Michigan is home to a whole range of underwater creatures, from turtles to small cottus, ballan wrasses and the barreleyes of the lake. The lake is also known for its high populations of introduced species, such as Eurasian Ruffe, an exotic freshwater fish native to Europe, and the vulnerable zebra mussel.
It should be noted however, that as with any body of water, the lake’s wildlife should be observed from a distance. Even from a safe distance, visitors of the lake can enjoy its abundance of underwater life while staggering their feet in the sand and take in the sights and sounds of its aquatic wildlife.
Beautiful Sights And Historical Landmarks By The Lake
The astonishingly-beautiful vistas of the lake extend beyond its beaches and crystal-blue waters inviting tourists to take in its postcard-like views. Be it an adventure in the solitude of nature or simply a relaxing and pleasurable getaway, Lake Michigan offers plenty of sights and landmark to explore.
The looming immense Sand Dunes in Indiana Dunes National Park and the exquisitely picturesque towns of Harbor Springs in Michigan and the quaint Grand Haven in the western side of the state are only just a few of the many exciting adventures visitors can discover. Along the way, visitors can explore and marvel at the Allerton’s 35-foot tall clock that overlooks the lake in Montague, Michigan or pass by the stunningly pink Victorian-style Minot’s Lighthouse in Cohasset, Massachusetts.
The lighthouses are a Lake Michigan staple, offering outdoor fun and access to miles of history. Boasting of nods to the region’s past, these lighthouses have seen hundreds of years of service, showcasing resplendent Old World architecture with modern updates. For example, the St. Joseph Pier South Pierhead Lighthouse, provides stunning lake views, while the Michigan City East Pierhead, standing at more than 1,000 feet long and 200 feet tall, has the distinction of being the longest pierhead lighthouse in the Midwest.
Outside of lighthouses, quaint harbors, abandoned railroad tracks, azure bays and a picturesque skyline all make for wonderful landmarks for visitors to explore and marvel at. Thus, whether returning to its shores every year or venturing out for the first time, Lake Michigan will undoubtedly provide visitors with endless opportunities to discover its alluringly hidden gems.
