After our event filled first day of camping my friend had to go home. I, on the other hand, headed north. My plan was to explore Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula, this time on my own. (You can click on any photo to see it larger.)

My first stop was the tip of Michigan’s mitten, at the state park that once was a campground. When I was a kid my family camped there, almost under the Mighty Mac, the five mile bridge that spans the Straights of Mackinaw between the Lower and Upper Peninsulas. Whenever I can I try stop there and walk where we once walked and where people walk now days, marveling at the bridge and the water, the ferry boats and the freighters that go by.

I remember us swimming in these waters. Taking the canoe out and paddling beneath the bridge, my dad telling us we had canoed from Lake Huron all the way to Lake Michigan! It was very cool, and I think of it every time I’m up there.

Once I made it across the bridge I started toward my destination at the Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Along the way I passed beautiful beaches, but, turning inland, I also noticed my favorite things, barns….

…and farmland. You know me. I had to stop and catch a few images. No matter where I am, when I see old barns I just have to stop if there’s somewhere safe to park.

Once I got to the park and set up on my large campsite…

…I decided to take a walk. There was a one mile trail down to the lower falls. Sounded like fun and after studying the map I headed out down the trail…

…which got narrower and less obvious. It was getting late and I realized I’d have to maneuver the trail back to the camp after dark. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. I scurried back feeling foolish and drove the one mile around the corner to the lower falls.

I still had a nice walk along a beautiful boardwalk back to the falls.

And they were pretty in the late evening light.

I enjoyed this little girl who was talking nonstop to her dad who was listening intently. She was excited about everything. I bet she slept well that night!

And just before I headed back a red canoe showed up for a little fishing. I thought for a bit that there was a sheltie in the boat, but I think it’s a border collie. The boat glowed in the quiet light. Most of us tourists had left and this couple had a quiet evening to enjoy.

I left them to it and headed back to my camp and a good night’s sleep. Right after a hot shower, one of the advantages to camping in state parks!

Lake Superior tomorrow. Stay tuned.