First, I have to mention that is was VERY windy no matter where we were on the UP. Made for a slightly chilly day as the high was only 58F.
We woke up and had egg bagels, cereal, and coffee. Vince undid the bikes from the rack as we didn't need them today. Theresa packed the coolers for lunch and travels and the kids, well, they just enjoyed the morning (as did Vince and Theresa).
Our first mini adventure was crossing the Mackinaw Bridge. Since there were high gusts all large vehicles, vehicles with trailers, and panel trucks had to be escorted across and speeds were kept to 25 MPH or less. It wasn't too bad in the van. Once over the bridge we were on our way to Oswalds Bear Ranch.
Now let me note to all that these stops and descriptions are somewhat unique as there was almost always no other family or person at the venue we went to all day!
The Bear ranch had three main viewing areas, one with cubs, one with males, and another with females. You could feed the bears (ie toss them apple slices) but we didn't really know that until we ran into another family that was doing it. You can read all about the mission of the ranch off of their web site. What we enjoyed best was feeding/holding/being a climbing tower for a cub. Each of us took turns getting a photo with the cub (even a short movie). The cub was very friendly and would munch on the treat then sniff you and climb you and look all over you (mostly your face since he was up on a stump) for any other treats/smells. The place was very clean and all the employees were more than friendly. I'd recommend it as a stop with or without kids.
Our next stop was Whitefish Point and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. The wind was strong here too. So strong the buildings were losing power on and off. We checked out the Museum, the Keepers House, the Launch building and climbed up the light tower. The displays were interesting as they had artifacts from the various wrecks in the area. They are the home to the bell from the Edmond Fitzgerald. They had short movie about the sinking of her as well as the task of retrieving the bell. The Lighthouse gave an awesome 360 view of area. We wandered out to the shoreline to go play in our third great lake of the day!
On our way to our next stop we took a break at the Berry Patch for a slice of homemade Blue Berry and Apple Pies. It was recommended and it was also worth it. Sherry is a great hostess and makes a mean pie.
From there it was off to our last stop(s). The upper and lower falls in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. We decided just to do the short hikes to each of the falls as it was getting late. The fall area was beautiful and the views wonderful. If we had more time we would have like to hike the park.
We ended up back at the cabin about 8:45PM. Vince started a fire (in the wind!) for the garlic bread while Theresa made spaghetti. The girls cleaned up and played cards until dinner. There wasn't much energy left by the time dinner was done. All in all a great day.
