20 Attractions to Explore Near Huron-Manistee National Forests

Tippy Dam is an impressive example of engineering and construction. Built in 1940, the dam impounds the Big Manistee River and spans over 950 feet long and 44 feet high. Its reservoir holds nearly 22 billion gallons of water, making it one of Michigan’s largest dams. Not only does Tippy Dam provide a substantial amount of hydroelectric power to the surrounding area, but is also a popular spot for recreation including fishing, boating and camping.

The Manistee River Trail offers a diverse and beautiful experience for those seeking outdoor adventure. It is approximately 21 miles long, beginning in Marilla Township and ending in the village of Mesick. Along the way, you will encounter a mix of forests and meadows with scenic stops at the Big Manistee Wilderness area and North Country National Scenic Trail. Aside from just taking in the gorgeous views, you can also explore landforms like ancient beds of glacial till.

Hodenpyl Dam Pond is a hidden gem in Wexford County, Michigan. With its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings, it's no wonder that this place is a favorite among anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. As someone who has been to this pond multiple times, I can attest to its beauty and charm. The funny thing is, it always surprises me how this place manages to maintain its peacefulness despite the number of visitors it gets.

Pine Lake is the perfect place to spend your summer. you can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating as well as lounging on one of the beautiful beaches along its shores. It is a wonderful spot for soaking up some sunshine and having a picnic with friends or family. Nature enthusiasts will also love exploring the area, with miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. If you're looking for something fun to do during those hot summer days, Pine Lake is the perfect spot for recreation and relaxation.

The Bottle House Museum is a unique destination that promises a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Constructed with thousands of bottles, the museum building is an incredible sight to behold! Once inside, visitors are taken on a journey through time, as the interior of the building is filled with artifacts and displays chronicling the history of Manistee County. Speaking tours are offered at no additional cost, providing guests with an insight into the items on display.

Hodenpyl Dam Pond is a popular spot for both fishing and camping. The dam creates a shallow pond that provides a mix of warmwater species such as bass, panfish, and northern pike. Fishers can expect to find opportunities for trolling and ice fishing during the winter months. Camping on the shore of the pond is also popular: there are primitive sites available with no fee. From this unique area, you can see various migratory birds pass through.

Caberfae Peaks, nestled in the quiet town of Wexford County, Michigan, is a hidden gem for winter sports enthusiasts. With some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state, Caberfae Peaks boasts 34 runs and an elevation of 485 feet. But there's more to Caberfae Peaks than just skiing. The stunning views alone are worth a visit, and the lodge offers a cozy atmosphere with great food and drinks. Plus, the friendly staff will make sure your experience is top-notch.

The Mesick Historical Museum in Wexford County, Michigan is a delightful slice of local history that is definitely worth a visit. As soon as you step inside, you're transported back in time by their extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. From antique farm tools to quirky items like a butter churn made from a converted washing machine, there's something here that will appeal to everyone's sense of humor and curiosity.

Onekama Village Park is a great place to take your family and make wonderful memories. This impressive park offers something for everyone. With two tennis courts, a basketball court, an open-air pavilion with picnic tables, large fields for sports and gathering, and even a playground area, literally all ages are welcome to enjoy the park. And don't forget about the one-of-a-kind observation tower that overlooks 200 acres of lakefront property!

Crystal Mountain, is a popular vacation destination. From skiing and snowboarding during the winter to hiking, golfing, and mountain biking during the summer months, Crystal Mountain has something to offer for everyone. There are plenty of options when it comes to dining and lodging with restaurants ranging from on-site casual eateries to fine dining establishments as well as numerous accommodations for visitors.

Portage Lake is a 2.5-mile long inland lake located in Manistee County, Michigan. With a maximum depth of 71 feet, this serene and picturesque lake serves as a popular destination for boaters and fishermen alike. Known for its great food, breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere, it offers hiking trails that wind around the shoreline and numerous opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. Fishing is also popular here.

This isn't your average Michigan lake, folks. It's got everything you need for a perfect summer day - breathtaking scenery, crystal clear waters, and endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. And let's not forget about the rockin' pontoon parties that happen here on the regular. But don't just take my word for it, get out there and experience it for yourself. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Manistee Lake has become an increasingly popular tourist destination over the years. The lake is well-known for its spectacular natural beauty and vast array of outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is a great place for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and bird-watching. The surrounding lands are home to lush forests filled with diverse wildlife. In recent years, there have been numerous developments on the banks of the lake, including cabins and vacation rentals.

Orchard Beach State Park is a stunning and inviting site for nature lovers. In addition to being a popular swimming spot and picnic area, Orchard Beach provides miles of shoreline for visitors to explore. Popular activities like kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping and fishing are all ways that visitors can make the most out of their trip to the beach. Orchard Beach also offers disabled accessible trails so everyone can take part in outdoor exploration and adventure.

The S.S. City of Milwaukee provided a fascinating chapter in the local area's maritime history. Built at the beginning of the 20th century as a passenger and freight ship, it traveled through lake Michigan until 1942 when heavy storms damaged its mechanical system. The ship then became an auto carrier, operating between various ports around Lake Michigan until 1971. After that, it was left abandoned at the Manistee County Harbor for years.

The USCGC Acacia has a long and important history in Manistee County, Michigan. First launched in 1931, USCGC Acacia was used primarily for environmental protection on the Great Lakes. She was commissioned to control pollution and to protect the environment from transmittable diseases that may be found within water sources. Today, this vessel is preserved as one of the many shipwrecks within the Manistee County Waters Maritime Heritage Preserve.

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers 18 holes of stunning and diverse terrain. A treasure for golfers, the course features dramatic elevation changes and paths cutting through indigenous sand dunes, giving golfers spectacular views from nearly every hole. With a wide variety of tee boxes to accommodate any skill level and scenery fit for a postcard, it's no wonder that Arcadia Bluffs continues to be one of the most sought after golfing destinations.

This is a special area known as one of the state's best-preserved natural areas. This sprawling 3,436-acre site features a variety of ecosystems, including sand dunes, wetlands, rivers, meadows, and forests - all perfect for exploring! In addition to its fascinating landscapes, the preserve is home to numerous bird species and wildflowers. It also offers miles of trails throughout the preserve which you can take to see rocky bluffs and freshwater marshland.

This hidden gem of Wexford County offers a smorgasbord of recreational activities for the whole family. From lounging on the beaches to kayaking through the winding channels, Lake Mitchell has it all. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, hitch a ride on a jet ski or hop on a tube for some high speed thrills. And after a day of fun in the sun, be sure to indulge in some of the area's delicious eats. In my humble opinion, nothing beats a walleye dinner at a local mom-and-pop joint.

Arcadia Lake, is a picturesque vacation spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Tucked away in the forests of northwest Lower Michigan, this lake features 75 acres of sparkling blue water surrounded by rolling hills, sand dunes and tall forests. The lake is perfect for boating and fishing, with plenty of nearby hiking trails and recreation areas offering a range of activities for people of all ages.