“Up North” means something different to every Michigander. For some, it’s all about long summers at lakeside cottages in the northern reaches of the Mitten. For others, “Up North” conjures images of the Upper Peninsula — waaay north — in all its splendor. No matter what going up north means to you, here are a few thoughts we’ve all had during our northward treks.
1. "Are we there yet?"
If you're trekking up north from anywhere below Michigan's midpoint, it's going to feel like a long trip. Besides, when you're excited to reach your destination, car rides seem to drag on for decades.
2. "Why haven't I been here before?"
Trips up north are always full of new discoveries and breathtaking unseen views. You'll find yourself wondering how you've lived your whole life without experiencing some of Michigan's most incredible natural wonders.
3. "Are you sure we're not in Canada?"
Is that a moose you've spotted?! Yep. Get far enough north in Michigan, and you'll swear you've somehow ended up in Canada.
4. "Remember when... ?"
For many Michiganders, going up north is a family pastime. Whether you're at the cottage where you spent your childhood summers or your long-visited campground in the woods, going up north usually means a trip down memory lane.
5. "Can we stop for a pasty?"
If you're venturing all the way to the Upper Peninsula, it's nearly impossible to avoid the pasty shops that line your long drive northward. Drop in for one (or five).
6. "Where are all the people?"
Michigan's northern wilderness is beautiful, but sometimes you're reminded that it's just that -- wilderness. Once you cross into the U.P., you might drive for hours without spotting any humans at all.
7. "This is beautiful."
Whether it's your first or 500th time going up north, Michigan's natural beauty will undoubtedly take your breath away.
8. "I scream for ice cream!"
Nothing hits the spot more perfectly after a day of up north adventures quite like a good ol'-fashioned ice cream cone. Luckily for you, Michigan has no shortage of sweet dairy shops.
9. "Is that snow... in May?!"
Michiganders are used to unpredictable weather, and it's no secret that winter lingers a bit longer in Northern Michigan. If your northerly travels take you to the far-reaches of the Upper Peninsula, be sure to pack a pair of gloves -- just in case.
10. "I don't want to go home."
After a glorious week of tubing, sunning, and cooking out at the cottage up north, nothing sounds less appealing than returning to "real" life.
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