Mountain & Trail News

    Many Summer ‘Go Get Outdoors’ Events Still Left to Enjoy in Michigan State Parks

    There’s still plenty of summer left to Go Get Outdoors and enjoy the events taking place in Michigan’s state parks. The following programs are scheduled from mid-August through the end of the month. Reservations are recommended but not necessary. To learn more, call the individual state parks.

    U.P. Muzzleloaders Offer a Look at the Past at Baraga State Park

    Learn how our forefathers went about their daily lives during the 1830s Rendezvous from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Baraga State Park, sponsored by the U.P. Muzzleloaders. Watch the art of tomahawk throwing then try it yourself (must be age 10 and older to participate). Learn how to start a fire using flint and steel, how to make rope and how to make buckskin clothing and accessories, then see if you can do it yourself. The park is located at 1300 US-41 South in Baraga (Baraga County). For details, call the park at 906-353-6558.

    Geocaching 101

    Catch on to the newest game in town by taking the Geocaching 101 instruction being offered at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 19 at Indian Lake State Park, 8970 W County Road 442 in Manistique (Schoolcraft County). The world is your game board in this family fun game that’s all the rage. Geocaching is a modern twist on treasure hunting, using GPS equipment to assist in finding containers around the park. For details, call the park at 906-341-2355.

    Fishing 101 at Indian Lake State Park

    Join representatives from Rapid River Knifeworks and learn everything you ever wanted to know about catching a fish. A Fishing 101 program will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Indian Lake State Park, 8970W County Road 442 in Manistique (Schoolcraft County). After the training course, try your knowledge and beginners’ luck at the fishing tournament that follows. No need to bring equipment. Loaner gear will be provided. For details, call the park at 906-341-2355.

    Learn Fishing and Fire Building at Van Riper State Park

    Smokey the Bear will be at Van Riper State Park, 851 County Road AKE in Champion (Marquette County) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 to offer tips on how to build a fire and put it out safely. You can also learn to fish during a Fishing 101 program taking place that day. Bring only yourself; equipment will be provided. For details, call the park at 906-339-4461.

    Kayaking 101 at Indian Lake

    Dip into paddling and learn how to navigate the waters during a Kayaking 101 program set for 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27 at Indian Lake State Park, 8970W County Road 442 in Manistique (Schoolcraft County). Instructors will go over safety and assist in learning this fun and popular sport. For details, call the park at 906-341-2355.

    The events are free unless otherwise noted; however, a Recreation Passport is required of all vehicles entering the parks. The Recreation Passport has replaced motor vehicle permits for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas and state-administered boating access fee sites. This new way to fund Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities also helps to preserve state forest campgrounds, trails, and historic and cultural sites in state parks, and provides park development grants to local communities.

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