Get Fit This Winter on the Forgotten Coast
The Forgotten Coast offers a growing list of opportunities for you to get fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle year-round. Since the calendar recently turned to January and many of us have health and fitness on our minds, we thought it would be fun to talk about the many indoor and outdoor fitness opportunities that come with the winter season here on the Forgotten Coast.
Health and fitness are two components of living a quality life. The Forgotten Coast, which encompasses the greater Thumb area of our mitten state, offers a growing list of opportunities for you to get fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle for yourself and your family year-round. Since the calendar recently turned to January and many of us have health and fitness on our minds, we thought it would be fun to talk about the many indoor and outdoor fitness opportunities that come with the winter season here on the Forgotten Coast. Here is a guide to help you get started.
Outdoor Activities
There is no shortage of outdoor activities to help you stay healthy and fit on the Forgotten Coast year-round. There are plenty of opportunities to hike, bike (fat-tire), snowshoe, or cross-country ski your way to better health. If you can tough the cold there is something truly magical about outdoor activities in a winter wonderland!
Hiking/Walking
Many of our communities offer walking trails and bike paths for your convenience, many of which can still be accessed throughout the winter months. There are nearby nature and hiking trails in addition to scenic country back roads which can boost peace of mind while working toward your health and wellness goals.
Cross Country Skiing
You can cross-country ski across the many open areas throughout the Forgotten Coast or pick a place that offers groomed trails. Here are a few to consider:
Sleeper State Park Day-Use Trails (refer to their Facebook for grooming status)
Check out the Lantern-lit Trail on February 3rd, 2024
Port Crescent State Park Day-Use Trails (refer to their Facebook for grooming status)
Huron County Nature Center - non-groomed
If you find yourself without equipment to Cross Country Ski, contact Port Austin Hardware in Port Austin about renting cross-country skis, poles, and boots. Their pricing is very reasonable!
Ice Skating & Hockey
Ice skating and hockey are iconic winter activities. If you are looking for an opportunity to skate or play you will find the Forgotten Coast offers both indoor and outdoor rinks for your enjoyment.
Snowshoeing & Fat Tire Biking
If you have snowshoes or a fat tire bike you can hit any of the many trails throughout the Forgotten Coast this winter! If not, you can stay at Dark Sky Lodge and Tavern in Port Austin and get a complimentary use of showshoes to access the Steel Bridge Trails located directly behind the property or nearby Port Crescent State Day Use Park or fat tire bikes for the nearby Huron County Nature Center and Sleeper State Park bike trails.
Sledding
Sledding can be a fun way to get a workout in with the whole family! Here are some fun places to go sledding on the Forgotten Coast.
Winter Disc Golf
Take in a round of disc golf on our local courses.
Indoor Activities
There are a growing number of fitness centers, gyms, personal trainers, and fitness classes being offered on the Forgotten Coast! It is impossible to list them all for you, but we thought we would talk about a few to get your imagination stirring. It seems that community Facebook pages have become a great source of information for more local fitness information. Chances are you will find a class or gym near you by doing a quick search online, but feel free to refer to the links below to help you get started.
Indoor Fitness Classes
Indoor fitness classes come in all shapes and sizes. From circuit training to tae kwon do, to yoga and beyond, fitness classes can offer motivation, accountability, fun, and variety to your fitness routine. Check out the list of fitness centers in the links below for more information.
Personal Training
There are many personal trainers throughout the Forgotten Coast who are available to help you reach your fitness goals. Here are some links to help you in your search.
Tumbling & Swim Classes for Kids!
The Tuscola County ISD is offering tumbling classes for kids ages 3 to 7 starting on January 17th. Visit tuscolaisd.org or visit Tuscola Technology Center Adult Community Education on Facebook. They will also be offering swim classes in the near future.
You may also want to check out Thumb Tumblers in Cass City.
Kindermusik for Kids!
Kindermusik classes include music and movement activities for all stages of development so that everyone is comfortable, engaged, and learning! Class is offered for ages 0 - 6. Learn more about Kindermusik.
Fitness Centers
Here are some links to help you find one that fits your health and wellness goals:
Education on the Forgotten Coast
The Forgotten Coast offers a diverse treasure trove of educational opportunities. You can choose from the familiar public or parochial school setting, one or two-room rural schoolhouses, or even a thriving home school co-op. With Michigan’s School of Choice Program you can choose which education best suits your child.
The Forgotten Coast offers a diverse treasure trove of educational opportunities for kids. You can choose from the familiar public or parochial school setting, one or two-room rural schoolhouses, or even a thriving home school co-op. Before we dive in, we need to talk about Michigan’s School of Choice Program. School of Choice allows students (and their parents) to choose which school they would like to attend regardless of where they live. Keep reading to learn about education on the Forgotten Coast.
Public Schools
There are many public schools throughout the Forgotten Coast, and because of School of Choice, you get the opportunity to choose the school your child can attend despite your location. In addition to this, the class sizes tend to be smaller than what you will find in larger cities, which can offer your child a sense of belonging and the ability to receive one-on-one help and instruction when needed. There are many public schools throughout the area and many schools stand out for academic excellence and are highly student-centered. The public schools also offer a wide variety of after-school activities and sports programs. To browse public schools on the Forgotten Coast we recommend visiting the intermediate school districts for each county and narrowing your search from there. See the links below.
Intermediate School Districts
The following intermediate school districts provide support services to local school districts throughout the Forgotten Coast area including educational and administrative services to schools for each county.
Home School
Michigan parents have the right to home-school their children. Parents can research reputable educational programming models that they feel best suit their child’s needs as well as determine the time commitment required to implement the learning program. To learn more about homeschooling in Michigan refer to the resources below.
In addition to homeschooling, you also can access homeschool cooperatives. A co-op offers a way to share teaching duties with others as well as an opportunity for your children to learn in a group and to make friends. One such homeschool cooperative is the Northern Huron County Homeschool Cooperative located in Port Hope at the Hope Activity Center. For more information, contact: phac.learningcurve@gmail.com. There is also a private Facebook Group called Homeschooling in Michigan’s Thumb worth looking into if you intend or have an interest in homeschooling your child. More resources can be found below.
Homeschool Information:
Local Homeschool Groups:
Parochial Schools
The Forgotten Coast also offers a variety of private schools offering religious education in addition to secular subjects. Huron County offers one Catholic school and four Lutheran schools. In Tuscola County, there are two Christian schools and three Lutheran schools.
Huron County Parochial Schools
Catholic: Our Lady of Lake Huron (Harbor Beach)
Lutheran: Christ the King Lutheran School (Sebewaing and Unionville), Cross Lutheran School (Pigeon), St. John’s Lutheran School (Pigeon), Zion Lutheran School (Harbor Beach)
Tuscola County Parochial Schools
Christian: Deford Christian Academy (Deford), Juanita Christian School (Vassar)
Lutheran: St. Luke’s Lutheran School (Vassar), St. Michael’s Lutheran School (Reese), Trinity Lutheran School (Reese)
Rural Schools
In a day and age where one and two-room country schoolhouses seem like a thing of the past, you may be surprised to find that a few can still be found on the Forgotten Coast! There are not one but five rural schools in Huron County that offer children a unique learning opportunity. The schools are mostly located throughout central Huron County in the upper thumb area of the Forgotten Coast and include Adams School, Big Burning School, Church School, Eccles School, and Verona Mills School. Learn more at huroncountyruralschools.com.
Technical Centers
Area technical centers offer residents of local school districts the ability to participate in career/technical programs and explore activities in preparation for employment or post-secondary education. Each county offers a wide variety of programs. Feel free to explore them more below.
Huron Area Technical Center (HATC)
The HATC offers 13 programs and 1 dual enrollment program such as:
Automotive Technology, CAD: Computer Aided Drafting (Architectural & Mechanical), Careers in Education, Construction/Building Technology, Cosmetology, Electrical Technology, Health Sciences, Hospitality/Food Service, Law Enforcement/Public Safety, Marketing, Power Technology, and Visual Communication.
Learn more about the Huron Area Technical Center.
Sanilac Career Center
The Sanilac Career Center provides Career and Technical Education opportunities for students from Brown City, Carsonville Port Sanilac, Crowell Lexington, Deckerville, Marlette, Peck, and Sandusky School Districts and offers 10 programs such as:
Auto Services, Biotechnology, Careers in Education, CDL Certification, Computer Technology, Construction, Culinary Arts, Digital Media, Engineering and Design, Graphics Communications, and Health Occupations.
Tuscola Technology Center (TTC)
The Tuscola Technology Center offers 19 programs such as:
Agriscience & Natural Resources, Art & Digital Design, Auto Body, Automotive Technology, CAD: Computer Aided Drafting (Architectural & Mechanical), Computer Technology Management, Construction, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Diesel Technology, Electronics, Graphics & Digital Imaging, Law Enforcement/Protective Services, Marketing & Business Management, Nursing Careers, Professions in Education/Early Childhood, Risk Management & Insurance, and Welding & Fabrication
Learn more about the Tuscola Technology Center
Special Education
Highland Pines School
Highland Pines is designed to serve as a centralized extension of the nine local school districts that make up the Tuscola Intermediate School District
The school provides services to those students from birth to 26 years who need highly concentrated special education and therapy services
In addition to the classroom, most students are involved in adapted physical education, aquatics, music therapy, activities of daily living, and community living
Huron Learning Center
The Huron Learning Center provides special education programs and services to students with a variety of special needs in Huron County, including moderate to severe cognitive impairments, severe multiple impairments, autism spectrum disorders, traumatic brain injuries, and severe emotional impairments
Students who attend the Huron Learning Center are between the ages of 3 and 26
Sanilac County Special Education Programs
The Sanilac ISD provides many special education services and programs for a wide range of impairments.
Learn more about the Sanilac ISD Special Education Programs and Services
Recap: Thumb Brewery 2021 Home Brewers Competition
Recently, Thumb Brewery hosted yet another successful event for their 2021 Home Brewers Competition. The Forgotten Coast Collective was invited to the award ceremony which took place on Saturday, October 23, 2021. We were beyond thrilled to find that Thumb Brewery had received 25 entries into the competition. Who knew the Forgotten Coast had such active homebrewers? Click to read more about the awards given.
Recently, Thumb Brewery hosted yet another successful event for their 2021 Home Brewers Competition. Congratulations to each of the homebrewers who entered and placed!
The Forgotten Coast Collective was invited to the award ceremony which took place on Saturday, October 23, 2021. We were beyond thrilled to find that Thumb Brewery had received 25 entries into the competition. Who knew the Forgotten Coast had such active homebrewers?
Dave Sattelmeier came out on top winning the “best of show” category for his Fresh Flowers IPA submission. Patrons will be able to taste this delightful brew in the Spring of 2022 when he joins head brewer, Nick Bowlby to reproduce this beer as a special release for Thumb Brewery. Dave also received a first-place award for his stout entry, Black Abyss.
In addition to Dave’s award-winning IPA, there were many additional awards handed out for various beer styles including browns and ambers, stouts, IPA’s, as well as an experimental style category.
Members of the Cass River Homebrew Club submitted and won multiple awards for their entries. Most notably, first place in the brown/amber category with their Urban Squirrel entry as well as first place in the experimental category with Tart Of Darkness, a dark sour beer.
The winners left with heavy bags of swag and gifts in addition to their medals. Overall, it was a successful event which left me feeling all the more hopeful for craft beverage makers (and consumers) here on the Forgotten Coast. View all the winning beers and their brewers below!
Finally, the event wrapped up with a podcast being produced right there in the brewery called Honestly Oversharing. The episode featured Mark, one of the owners of Thumb Brewery, and their head brewer Nick as guests on their show. Needless to say, it was pretty interesting to witness a podcast being produced in a brewery. To listen to the full episode, click here.
The Forgotten Coast is beyond grateful for Thumb Brewery as well as all the contestants and judges who made this event possible. More craft beer happenings are on the horizon. Thank you for having us!
BEST OF SHOW:
Dave Sattelmeier - Fresh Flowers (IPA)
BROWNS / AMBERS:
1ST- Larry & Lori Kula - Urban Squirrel
2ND - Damon Turner - Chef PB
3RD - James Standing - Irish Heavy
STOUTS:
1ST- Dave Sattelmeier - Black Abyss
2ND - Cass River Club - Black Out
3RD - Stu Johnson - Big Chewy
IPA'S:
1ST- Dave Sattelmeier - Fresh Flowers
2ND - Mike Perman - Fog Delay
3RD - Larry Kula - Amarillo Rye-sing
EXPERIMENTAL:
1ST- Larry & Lori Kula - Tart Of Darkness
2ND - Bob Whitefoot - O'runge D'Lite
3RD - Cass River Club - Signal The Drednaught
Re/Discover Huron County: A Place I Never Knew Existed Until Now
What comes to mind when you read the word sanctuary? Finding this word in the title of a place I never knew existed left me intrigued. One minute I am working at my computer logging info into a database about beaches and parks on the Forgotten Coast, the next minute my attention is so gripped by the discovery of this new mysterious location that I suddenly had an impulsive urge to see it for myself. Here’s how it went and why you should consider checking it out for yourself.
What comes to mind when you think of a sanctuary?
At first thought, perhaps you think of a place of protection and safety or maybe it lends itself to a more spiritual meaning. Regardless, finding this term in the title of a place I never knew existed left me intrigued. One minute I am working at my computer logging info into a database about beaches and parks on the Forgotten Coast, and the next minute my attention is so gripped by this new mysterious location that I suddenly had this impulsive urge to see it for myself.
Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary is an untouched parcel of wood and marshland that hugs the Lake Huron Shoreline, and more intimately, Whiskey Harbor, approximately 3 miles north of Port Hope at the end of Pochert Road. I must have driven by this road hundreds of times, and still, it remained unknown to me. There is no sign at the intersection of M-25 and Pochert road to distinguish its existence. That sign can only be found if you drive down the dead-end road and see it for yourself.
Until now, I never had a reason to drive down this road. Without the mystery of a nature sanctuary, it was simply just another road. Curious I took the fifteen-minute drive to the road less traveled, and where it led to was more than just a nature sanctuary, it was a place of adventure, a place of peace and solace, and in my experience, a place where one can truly be alone with nature in its most untouched form.
Setting out having only briefly read about the area on the Michigan Nature Association website and a single Google review, I was mostly unaware of what to expect. To help future adventurers on the Forgotten Coast, I am sharing my experience in hopes of giving others a greater understanding of what to expect when they themselves decide to make the trek.
Information About Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary
When you get to the end of Pochert Road there is a space just to the right to park one, maybe two vehicles. If you have never visited a nature sanctuary that is a part of the Michigan Nature Association, I would advise reading the sign. There is some information that will prove helpful to you along the way. Take a look at the blue trail marker that is posted on the sign as you will need to pay attention to those as the trail itself is not maintained. Take note that this hike is certainly not for everyone, and before setting out I highly encourage wearing hiking boots or shoes you can get wet, as some areas in the marsh are saturated. You might also want to wear long pants and bug spray.
When you are ready to set off on your adventure, take a left past the sign and cross the wooden bridge.
The half-mile trail is in and of itself an adventure. You will likely find yourself weaving over and under fallen trees and through thick brush and marsh grass. Keep a lookout for the blue trail markers as some places along the trail are almost incomprehensible due to the vegetation. Some of the trees which are marked have fallen. You can, however, distinguish the path if you take your time. The trail is mostly level aside from the fallen trees and debris. Approximately ¾ of the way there you will meet a natural bridge across a creek bed made of moderate-sized rocks you can use to step across and continue on the trail. It is really quite beautiful. Not long thereafter you will see a “trail ends” sign before the trail opens up to an absolutely breathtaking view of Whiskey Harbor.
This is truly the prize for making it to the end of the trail. There are approximately 75 yards of beach hugging the south side of the harbor for you to explore. You can find all kinds of stones, shells, and beach glass among the other debris on the beach. This is also an excellent place to see migrating birds and wildlife, or simply just watch the waves roll in.
Reflection
Could there really be a place I haven’t been to in this county, let alone a place so close to my very own backyard, and yet still be so naive to its very existence? The answer to this question has me pondering what else I have been so blind to for all these years. I was born and raised here, I have lived most of my adult life here, and still, there are new adventures that await just beyond my door.
The discovery of the Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary and my adventure therein have ignited an insatiable desire within me to rediscover Huron County and the greater Forgotten Coast with my daughter in tow. I look forward to our next adventure and the opportunity to share it with you. I hope you too will take an adventure on the Forgotten Coast and re/discover natural wonders not yet seen or known.
What to know before you go:
It is unfortunate, but there are no pets allowed in order to keep the area as untouched and protected as possible, which is understandable in my opinion.
Wear hiking boots or waterproof boots/shoes and long pants. Bug spray might be a good idea also.
Read the sign before taking the hike.
Take your time and take it all in. Do your best to follow the blue trail markers. Overall, the hike takes about an hour and a half depending on how long you explore the trail and beach.
This place has remained untouched for centuries, let’s ensure this place remains this way well into the future by leaving only footsteps.
For more information about Kernan Memorial Nature Sanctuary or others like it, visit Michigan Nature Association.
Michigan's Forgotten Coast is a Great Place for Children
The Forgotten Coast is an ideal place to raise your children. I know this to be true wholeheartedly from personal experience, both my own as a child growing up here and as a parent raising kids here now.
Growing up, I didn’t know how good I had it.
I had a huge yard with what seemed like more space than my imagination could fill. My parents kept a garden that I can remember “helping” with as I stuffed my face with fresh-picked strawberries. The woods were a short walk from our house and I can remember building forts with my friends and secretly guarding its location from our parents and older siblings. Deer feasting on the fallen apples in our backyard or grazing in the fields around our house, turkeys and pheasants that quickly crossed our path as we went by, and birds of all shapes and sizes were often welcome visitors, not to mention the many friends we had in the barn. Cows, calves (baby cows), pigs, and rabbits to name a few, were not only our furry friends, they gave us kids our first “job” as we learned to care for them as we were required to feed and water them regularly.
And then there were the seasons. Summer was always a welcome time of year as school would let out and our days were spent outside, camping, or at the beach. We had so many beaches to choose from that I can fondly remember visiting a handful each summer. Fall was another favorite time of year as it brought all the beautiful colors of the leaves and flowers changing, and game was always a welcome staple on our dinner table. In winter, we would turn the snow piles my dad would make from clearing the driveway into snow forts, and we thoroughly enjoyed sledding or ice-skating with friends. Spring always brought the feeling of things bursting to life again after a cold winter’s passing. I look back on my life growing up in the rural countryside of the Forgotten Coast and I can clearly see why I chose this life for our own children.
The Forgotten Coast is an ideal place to raise your children. I know this to be true wholeheartedly from personal experience, both my own as a child growing up here and as a parent raising kids here now. I am including a list of the reasons below. I hope this helps you as you consider whether or not to choose the Forgotten Coast here in the upper thumb of Michigan as your forever home or future home for your family.
Art & Culture
Areas throughout the Forgotten Coast are making great strides to continue to build on art and cultural experiences. From art installations to artists in residence programs, to live music and arts and crafts offerings, there is soon to be no shortage of arts and cultural opportunities for your family to enjoy and perhaps be a part of!
Education
Did you know that our area is known to have one of the greatest numbers of country schools in Michigan? We have more than 5 country schools! If that doesn’t interest your family, there are a variety of parochial and private schools in addition to the many highly-regarded public schools offering various curriculums, activities and opportunities. What about home-schooling? Yes, you can do that too. There are quite a few groups of parents who home-school their children and still get them together regularly for fun activities, as well as provide opportunities for learning and socializing.
Healthcare
You may be surprised to find that our area offers quite a plethora of well-organized and outfitted healthcare services, from EMS to walk-in clinics, to hospitals, primary care centers and beyond! We have nationally recognized healthcare systems known for their excellence in patient care, and typically, not a high turn around in care providers so you can build the kind of relationships you desire with your family’s physicians and caregivers.
Lack of Natural Disasters
We don’t experience a whole lot of natural disasters. Fires tend to be put out quickly, flooding has not imposed a huge risk for any of us other than those near the shoreline when the water was high (it is now receding), and when it comes to wind, it can be fairly windy here, but it is not like anything a hurricane can impose. Storms, we have recently had a few bad storms, in fact even a few tornadoes. This was the first time in my entire memory that something like this has happened here, and although it was no greater than an EF-2 and no one was greatly harmed, there was damage. What we saw afterward, however, is what I feel makes this area so special. We saw a great number of neighbors, residents, business and friends come together to support those who were affected. So although we cannot say nothing bad ever happens here, we can say we have the right people and services in place to help those in need.
Low Cost of Living
Property and homes here tend to be way below that of the national average or what you find in the cities or in suburbs. Less money being spent on housing and essentials gives your family more opportunities to increase your quality of life. I can get behind that, how about you?
Nature & Parks
If you’re like me, spending time in nature is an incredible way to learn about the world around you, to relax and unwind from the stresses of everyday life, and to keep your mind and body healthy. Here, nature is as close to your backdoor as possible and considering where you choose to live you could be minutes from the lake or woods. Children growing up here are sure to have no shortage of nature or outdoor recreation activities to choose from growing up. There are also a ton of parks to visit, many within walking distance.
Quality of Life
I feel like there is no better place to lay down roots than a place that gives you the opportunity to pursue life, liberty, and happiness for yourself and your family. If happiness for you means a big beautiful garden or fire pit, or possibly to raise a bunch of chickens in your backyard, or heck, even to paint your house pink, I think you won’t find much trouble from the powers that be to stop you. Now, I know there is no place on earth without blemish, but here it seems that is few and far between. Of course, like anywhere there are factors that could play a role in those pursuits, like living in town versus out of town for example, but the overall consensus is that you can make many of your dreams come true when it comes to raising your children, caring for your home and property, and building a life here on the Forgotten Coast.
Sense of Community
To feel like you belong in a place that looks out for one another is what it feels like living in a community in the Forgotten Coast. Neighbors look out for neighbors, friends help friends, and most importantly when you or your family really needs a hand, you would be hard-pressed to not find someone or an organization or a community to band together to give you the hand up you need. From spaghetti dinners to cornhole tournaments, raffles and beyond, I have seen how our communities have come together time and time again to support local families and causes when tragedy strikes or a need arises.
Safety
I have never felt an innate sense of fear living here, and I feel this to still be true to this day. I know I can send my children on the school bus without fear of their return or whereabouts. I trust their educators and our community which looks out for each other. If you look at the data, you will find that our crime rates are much lower than the national average. We have full-time police departments and very well-trained fire departments in place to continue to ensure the safety of our communities and families.
Kids can be Kids
Last but not least, I really feel that kids can be kids on the Forgotten Coast. In a world and a time when society and the internet can have such a great influence on kids to grow up too quickly, the Forgotten Coast offers a haven and wide-open spaces for kids to run, play, and have an imagination. If this is important to you, you will certainly find it here.
Making Michigan's Forgotten Coast My New Home ❤️
Read about Diana’s journey moving to the Forgotten Coast as she details how she found her dream home to build on this next and new chapter of her life. Welcome to the Forgotten Coast, Diana!
Life is about love and loss.
Home is about finding your place in the world that affords you the peace to endure those losses.
I’m a “Mitten Girl” born and raised. Loud and proud. Strong but sensitive. When troubles came my way... I ran... I ran to the water. I ran home. Not to the place I was raised. Not to the place I was living. I ran to the Harbor.
But not just any harbor... I ran to Harbor Beach, Michigan.
On the south side of town, I sat at Williams Inn, picking from homemade selections at their soup and salad bar. Staring at a huge framed print of Princess Diana. How often I’m told I share her likeness. How fitting I share her name. I thought of her boys losing her as I was now losing my mom.
“Promise me, you’ll find your new happy,” my mom said to me at her bedside on hospice. Together, we’d sat at numerous doctor offices and hospital waiting rooms over the last decade. She, the last, of several loved ones to pass. I’m lost in thought.
Just then, Jenny, a kind server assures me they won’t begin to charge me rent until I’ve stayed at least 4 hours. An unexpected smile spreads across my face and soothes my soul.
Next, I overheard a customer nearby speak of the long walk home across the street and my attention is drawn to homes nearest the shoreline. I reach for my phone inquisitive of what homes on Huron go for around these friendly parts when the list of those on the market graces my screen.
My heart be still.
In disbelief, I whisper, “I could afford to live here?” to my surprise.
I called the Harbor Beach Inn, where Carl, the kind owner of a quaint motel, turned the heat on in my room preparing for my arrival. He gave me specific directions on where to find his location and what stores would be nearby and still open for necessities once I arrived. The next day, he encouraged, should I be interested to make Harbor Beach my home to ask locals of homes they may know will come on the market this spring.
I ran home to pack a bag and pets. He allowed me to stay with my two little dogs in tow. I booked a week, during which time, cruising town, I spotted a woman carrying a boxed flat-screen television set into a Lion’s Hall. I burst through double doors to find a room full of women scrapbooking. Tables of snacks and a couple of children enjoying the spoils.
I poked fun saying, “this must be where they keep the wild women.!” We shared a laugh and then I shared with them my interest to relocate. They ran down a list of potential realtors, listings, and locations, when suddenly someone said, “she’s a stitch, put her in next to Lou!”
Lou.
Yes, there next door to Lou, stood the home of Mary whose heavenly homecoming had come almost a year ago.
In the days to come, Mary’s daughter and son would share the sweet estate where they grew up. We would sit at the dining table in the kitchen sharing similarities of our youth, of losing our fathers then and our mothers now.
It wasn’t long before we’d reached an agreement and a storage unit I’d secure before I skipped out of town to pack and list my home an hour and a half away. Locals would recommend builders, power washers, roofers, and inspectors. I’ve never been more readily aided and checked upon to be sure I had what I needed.
It’s been a month now that I’ve been making my house a home. Playfully dressing up details Mary passed unto me. I’m even happy to report, I’ve accepted an offer as I proofread today!
So should you consider a move to the thumb...
I bid you to consider the beach. Harbor Beach.
I’ll leave singing the praises of its schools, homes, farms, and businesses to its natives.
I’m honored, for the opportunity, to sing praise for its people!
For it’s the people of Harbor Beach who continue to heal my heart.
🏡
- Diana Lea Egan
The Thumb got a lot cooler over the last decade
I grew up just west of the Forgotten Coast area, and “The Thumb” (as it’s usually called) was often the butt of jokes. It still is sometimes, but those jokes are wrong…it’s getting a lot cooler over here.
When I was growing up the Thumb was the butt of a lot of jokes…but times have changed and the joke’s on anyone still sleeping on what’s going on in the Thumb!
Our infrastructure is fantastic and our property prices are far more affordable than most of Michigan’s coastline (for now). If you’re an investor or developer looking for a growing area, a creative looking for a fantastic home base, a nature lover who wants easy access to water & wildlife, or just looking for a relaxed lifestyle for you or your family, Michigan’s Forgotten Coast just may be for you!
Fresh From the Farm - Home Cooking on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
If you love to cook, you’ll really love how many fresh, local ingredients are at your fingertips on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast
If you love to cook, you’ll really love how many fresh, local ingredients are at your fingertips on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
Farm fresh eggs
Local fresh grown produce can be found in just about every nook and cranny here on the Forgotten Coast. Our roots are steeped in agriculture, meaning you can’t really go but a few blocks or miles without seeing something growing. Whether its fields ripe with corn, sugar beets, soybeans or wheat for what sometimes seems like miles, farmers markets brimming with all sorts of fresh selections, a neighbor’s backyard garden, or the occasional chicken crossing, local produce is pretty much everywhere you look.
If you’re into fresh produce and protein like I am you too will find the Forgotten Coast to be ripe with opportunities for creating healthy, sustainable, and delicious meals. With access to truly local and fresh produce being so close to your very own kitchen, the limits to creating your own farm-fresh menu are few.
Depending on where you settle whether in-town or out-of-town, you can have the choice to grow your own fruits and vegetables, raise your own farm animals, as well as find what you need from local markets, farm stands, friends, or even by foraging. Let’s not forget about hunting and fishing. The area boasts an abundance of options to source wild game and fish for your freezer/table.
GROW YOUR OWN
From a few pots on your back porch to a large garden, fruits and vegetables tend to grow well here on the Forgotten Coast. I have been an avid gardener here my whole life. Growing up on a small farm just south of Harbor Beach, my hands have been in the dirt since I was a little sprout. What I particularly enjoy about gardening here is that we have seasons. Busy seasons with plenty of planting, weeding, and harvesting (spring-early fall), and quiet time to reflect, plan and prepare for another season ahead (late fall-winter).
The Forgotten Coast is unique because our nearby coastal water provides for an interesting growing climate. Around the lakeshore, and in some areas inland, the plant hardiness zone is 6a (-10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit) while some areas are considered 5b (-15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit). This is because water, especially large bodies of water like the Great Lakes, absorbs and releases heat easily. Lakes tend to act as a great heat source throughout the winter months and also tend to smooth out seasonal changes providing for fewer temperature extremes. There are other factors that can affect growing fruits and vegetables in the area, including microclimates. If you want to geek out, research the Port Huron Moraine. Moraines are typically rolling landforms, higher than the surrounding countryside.
In my experience, we typically have an average 130-150 day window for growing outdoors depending on how close you are to the lakeshore. Areas that are 25 miles or closer to the shoreline seem to embrace that longer-growing window. This gives you plenty of opportunities to grow a variety of plants. Fruit trees like apple, pear, peach, and cherry trees tend to thrive here, along with most berry plants. Grapes are also a good candidate for growing, especially hybrid, cold-hardy varieties. Vegetables of all colors and varieties grow very well here. Plants that take longer to grow (such as peppers and tomatoes) should be started indoors in early spring, or purchased from a local nursery as transplants for greater success.
Harvest is always a particularly exciting time and typically happens mid-late August through early October, depending on which varieties you choose to grow. Sweet corn can be shucked and frozen to be enjoyed in the cold weather months, tomatoes canned and put to use in a variety of ways. Potatoes and other root vegetables can be stored and eaten well into the late spring of the next year if kept in cold storage. It is not uncommon to find cold rooms in the basements of older homes in the area or even the occasional root cellar.
Growing your own fruits and vegetables gives you the ability to truly customize your very own farm-fresh menu. Grow the types and varieties that you particularly enjoy, and feed your family year-round by preserving your harvest. The Forgotten Coast is ripe with farm-fresh opportunities for growing or consuming!
FIND WHAT YOU NEED, LOCALLY
If growing your own produce is not an option, then you can typically find more than what you need at local farmers markets, farm stands, or even from neighbors. Our farmers markets typically run from Mid-May through Mid-October and offer all kinds of seasonal produce. The Port Austin Farmers Market has been recognized as one of Michigan’s top ten Farmers Markets by Michigan’s Official State Travel Guide and regularly has 150 vendors if not more every Saturday throughout the season. At this market, in particular, you can find a nice range of produce, plants, cheese, local and organic meats, as well as fish and seafood. There are a number of other local community farmers markets throughout the Forgotten Coast happening weekly.
Beyond farmers markets, you can find locally grown produce and farm-fresh staples at many farm stands or from local growers throughout the area. You can find anything from fruits and vegetables to farm fresh eggs, honey, maple syrup, cider vinegar, and beyond. It is also common to find local beef farmers who offer opportunities to buy directly from them.
In addition to farmers markets and local growers, the area offers a number of stores dedicated to selling produce, meat, dry goods and more to help you fill in the gaps for your perfect farm-fresh menu.
RAISE YOUR OWN
Local pork
The Forgotten Coast is wide open with possibilities to raise your own livestock. You can find that some villages and towns are zoned so you can have your very own backyard flock of chickens. If you choose to live in a more rural area, you can find ample space to create your own farm and raise whatever livestock fits your fancy.
HUNTING & FISHING
This area is home to a wide variety of hunting and fishing. If wild game and fresh fish is what you seek there are so many options for you to choose from on the Forgotten Coast. Deer, wild turkey, pheasant, grouse, and waterfowl such as ducks, are all commonly sought-after wild game that brings a variety of protein options to your table. To learn more about hunting seasons and licenses visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website. Fishing is also extremely popular on the Forgotten Coast. You can find freshwater fish like trout, salmon, walleye, large and small-mouth bass, whitefish, and perch to name a few. Valid licenses are required for both hunting and fishing, see the Michigan DNR Website for more information.
FORAGING
Last but not least, foraging on the Forgotten Coast is an exciting, healthy, and cost-effective way to enhance any locally sourced menu. From Morel hunting to picking wild asparagus and beyond, there are many delicious and treasured finds to seek out and cook up. State land, which we happen to have an abundance of here on the Forgotten Coast, provides ample opportunities for foraging. You can learn more about what you can and cannot forage on public lands on The Department of Natural Resources website. You can also get permission from a friend or neighbor to forage on their property.
Regardless of the path you choose, you won’t be alone in your endeavor to create your own farm-fresh way of life.
You will find many friends here, including me! Many of which will be willing to share not only wisdom and helpful tips but a helping hand along the way.
Underrated: The Sky of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast
On Michigan’s Forgotten Coast you can the sun rise and set over Lake Huron. Once it’s away for the night you’ll be treated to a star filled sky all the way to the horizon in every direction!
Light pollution is minimal, the landscape is flat, and we’re surrounded by Lake Huron…the sky is a huge feature of our area.
When I moved out of Michigan one of the first things I missed was our gorgeous sky. I think a lot of us who grew up here don’t appreciate it like we should…I mean it’s the same sky everywhere, right? No, it’s not. Well, technically it is but the view is vastly different. Factors like light pollution, landscape, and air pollution don’t allow you to see that sky like you can on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
One of the unique features of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast is that you can see the sun rise and set over Lake Huron!
Even beyond the lake, in many places here you can see to the horizon (or close to it) in every direction. The landscape is flat, we don’t have a ton of tall buildings, the roads are straight…you’re often in a full dome of sky all around you. You can watch interesting cloud formations and see storms rolling in from miles away.
At night you can be surrounded by that dome of sky when it’s full of stars (and planets!). Lay back and view the full Milky Way, and sometimes even the Northern Lights!
If you’re looking for a great spot to check out the night sky, visit the Dark Sky Preserve at Port Crescent State Park!
Top 10 reasons we made Michigan's Forgotten Coast our work from home base.
Grab your laptop and work by Lake Huron or cuddle up by the fireplace and watch the snow…Michigan’s Forgotten Coast is a fantastic place for you to work from home.
We know a lot of people are newly working from home & we’re here to let you know our experience of working from home on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast for the last 10+ years.
It’s pretty awesome actually. Do we miss some city stuff? Yes, of course. But, with the lower cost of living here, we can actually travel a lot more. I smell another article on that topic. 🤔
There are also things here that you don’t really get in a larger city, which is why our area has a strong tourism industry. It’s also gotten a lot cooler around here in the last decade with a whole lot of art & music coming to the area. Hey, that sounds like another article too! 😉
Many of you may already be getting used to the “work from home” deal, so we don’t need to explain how great it is to have zero commute and how much time & money that saves. So, we’ll focus more on what makes it nice to work from home on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast specifically.
#1. Lake Huron
Lake Huron at Jenks Roadside Park
Sure, it is one of the largest fresh water supplies in the world, but beyond that Lake Huron provides a vast amount of activities, is home to diverse wildlife habitats, and is a beautiful backdrop all year long.
#2. The surrounding nature & access to it
Hiking at Port Crescent State Park
As mentioned in our 1st reason, Lake Huron provides a home to a diverse ecosystem. You’ll find all sorts of waterfowl and predatory birds fishing in the lake including bald eagles, golden eagles, falcons, hawks, geese, seagulls, swans, ducks, and a lot more.
There are hiking trails, bike trails, state game areas, and several other ways for you to get out in this natural landscape. Some of our cities & villages have those access points to nature trails right in town!
If you’d like some links to parks & outdoor activities in the area, click here.
#3. Walkability
Vassar rail trail
Walk or bike to most everything you need. The grocery store, hardware store, boutiques, restaurants, bars, dr. offices, gym, yoga studio, the library, city hall, beaches, parks, schools, churches, and most other things you might need are just blocks away in the cities & villages of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast!
#4. Broadband access & general infrastructure
Installation of fiber broadband
Many rural areas don’t have great access to broadband, but we do. Being digital workers, that was extremely important to us when we moved to the area. Our cities and villages are well connected. We were one of the 1st places in the country to have lit fiber in the ground!
#5. Cost of living
Port Austin Farmers Market
When we first moved here, we were a bit taken aback on how inexpensive certain things were here. It’s not quite what it was 10 years ago, but it’s still an inexpensive place to live.
#6. Community involvement
Huron County Community Foundation Mini Grant Event
Our communities are small and need participation from a broad cross section of the citizens to be viable. You’ll find open arms at most community organizations. You’ll also see those organizations doing good in your community on a regular basis. When you help with these organizations, you can see the direct impact you’ve made in your community. It feels good.
#7. Access to fresh, local, food products
Reduce your carbon footprint AND get great quality local meat & produce.
We mentioned earlier that having a large amount of local agriculture helps keep food costs down. What we didn’t mention is how good it is! The carbon footprint from such a local economy is also something to take pride in, but is often less appreciated by those who have been living that way their whole lives.
#8. Connection to the City or Village itself
City of Harbor Beach collecting leaves.
You can watch your tax dollars at work as the city works on cleaning the streets, fixing the sewer, planting trees, or building a new park for the citizens. It’s right there, every day. You can see it.
#9. Safety & security
Croswell & Worth Township Fire Departments
The communities on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast have well equipped and well trained first-responders.
If we have some sort of issue, everything we need to solve it is right around the corner. Most of our communities have local police, firefighters, doctors, vets and more!
#10. Seasons
Harbor Beach Lighthouse as Lake Huron starts to freeze
It’s nice to be back in a place that has 4 very distinct seasons after living in areas where they don’t.
There’s something truly magical about living through such drastically different seasons throughout the course of the year, and the change of seasons helps to make the year feel a bit longer and more enjoyable.
Those are our top 10, but there are other things we didn’t mention that would make other people’s list.
Like the benefits to those with children. We have great school systems, and if you live in the city, your children can walk to school. Speaking of children, you don’t really have to worry about them playing in the neighborhood, and if you want to take them to the park or the playground, those are generally just a short walk away.
A personal favorite that didn’t make the list; it’s not the cookie cutter, soul crushing, sameness of the suburbs. Houses are all unique and most are really well built. There are no HOAs telling you what to do with your home. We don’t have strip malls everywhere and a Starbucks on every corner. Actually, we have 0 Starbucks. Some of our cities and villages have a fast food chain or two, but we’re mostly a place of mom & pop restaurants…and all types of businesses actually. When we travel back through suburbs, we sometimes long for the variety of food & and businesses they have…but the sameness and strip mall blight are a huge turn off. You won’t find much of that around these parts.
If you've never seen the Great Lakes in person...
I was born & raised on the Great Lakes, but I’ve lived many other places and quickly realized most people have no idea of the size or impact of the Great Lakes. I’ve been lucky enough to be with multiple people on their first visit to a Great Lake…it’s hard to grasp until you see & feel one. Let’s just run through a few quick things…
Get your sticker here and support the National Museum of the Great Lakes
If you didn’t already know, the Great Lakes are the largest freshwater system in the world.
The five Great Lakes - Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie and Ontario - span a total surface area of 94,600 square miles and are all connected by a variety of lakes and rivers, making them the largest freshwater system in the world.
Sunset over Lake Huron in Port Austin
Most of us that grew up on the Great Lakes take them (at least a little) for granted. My experience is mostly with Lake Huron on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast, but I’ve also spent a good amount of time on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Sorry Eerie & Ontario, I don’t know you very well but we’re glad to have you in the group.
We Great Lakes people expect that the rest of the country knows as much about them as we do…which isn’t the case at all. When I lived in the deep South and Midwest, I found myself having to explain the Great Lakes to friends & coworkers quite often. “I mean, they’re just lakes, right?” Absolutely not. Not like any lake you’ve seen before anyway. Why not?
Size
This is an easy one to explain but I don’t think most people get it until they see them in person.
You can’t see across them. They can have beaches and crashing waves. They can feel more like an Ocean than the kind of lake most people are used to...just without the corrosive salt and sea life that can kill you. 😜
Oh yeah, you can even see them from space!
Great Lakes From Space
Fresh Water
If the Great Lakes were salty, they’d be considered seas. But instead, they’re one of the world’s greatest supplies of fresh water. What does that mean for us? It means we aren’t going to run out of drinking water any time in the foreseeable future. We know there are places in the west and midwest where water is hard to come by. That’s not a fear for us.
One of the things Michigan is known for is great beer. Great water helps make great beer! Affordable great water helps make more profitable brewers. If you’re interested in brewing on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast, find more resources and reasons why we’d be a good fit here.
Elk Street Brewery in Sandusky
Waves
“It’s not like you can surf on a lake.” I heard this often when I lived near the Atlantic coast. It’s not true of course, there can be HUGE waves on the Great Lakes. Large enough to sink ships in fact. People tend to underestimate the power of the Great Lakes, it’s always best to be cautious and respect them.
You can visit many of those ships that succumbed to the power of the lakes right here on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast. Most you will need diving gear to see, but there are a few that you can see from the surface!
Those same waves and storms that sank ships also carved out some really cool rock formations right here on Lake Huron including the iconic Turnip Rock.
Lake Huron waves in Port Sanilac
Beaches
“You must have imported the sand.” Another one I heard often. When you’re used to small lakes with muddy shores, the idea of a sugar sand beach on “just a lake” doesn’t quite compute. But, as we’ve said, a Great Lake isn’t “just a lake”. The volume of water, the weather patterns, and erosion over time have created unique coastlines.
The state of Michigan has a huge number of beaches. Both sandy and rocky coastlines, including right here on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast. Find more information & links to our beaches here.
Enjoy the beaches of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast
Weather
The Great Lakes effect the weather quite a bit. As weather systems pass over the Great Lakes, they can pick up moisture and drop it when they hit the land mass again. One of the terms we’re all familiar with here in our day to day weather forecasts is “lake effect”. I’m not sure there is another place in the US (maybe even the world) where the lakes effect the weather in the same way.
Here on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast, we’re a peninsula…surrounded by Lake Huron on the East, North and West. We don’t tend to get the amount of lake effect snow that the west side of Michigan does, but if the wind turns and comes from the north or east, we most certainly can. But, my favorite benefit of Lake Huron is in the Fall when it’s still warm from the summer and acts like a little space heater to the coastline. It really helps us ease into winter a little more nicely than the interior parts of Michigan.
Lake effect snow
Commerce
Shipping & trading on The Great Lakes helped our area become prosperous long, long ago. It’s why (along with agriculture) we have all these little cities and villages with great infrastructure. Even today, you can sit on the shoreline and watch huge freighters go by loaded with cargo.
If you want to know about the ship, where it’s from, or what it’s carrying, there’s an app for that. ShipFinder | FleetMon | VesselFinder | MyShipTracking | MarineTraffic
Lake Huron is active shipping & trade route.
Border
I always found this one a little odd, but it seems like a lot of Americans don’t know that most of the Great Lakes provide a natural border with Canada. Or for that matter, that parts of Canada are south of parts of the US. For example, from my house on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast, I have to drive about an hour due south to get to the nearest border crossing in Port Huron. In fact, Canada (Ontario) stretches all the way down to Detroit. We always find it fun to hop across the boarder for some dinner and a night out in a different country.
Canada is just across Lake Huron
Of course, there are many more reasons that differentiate the Great Lakes from other lakes. What’s your favorite?
Want to learn more about the Great Lakes?
12 Reasons Why the Great Lakes Are Better Than the Ocean - Thrillist
10 Great Lakes Fun Facts You May Not Know - Pure Michigan
Great Lakes Fast Facts - Sea Grant
Facts and Figures about the Great Lakes - United States Environmental Protection Agency
Great Facts About the Five Great Lakes - Live Science
Great Lakes Facts - Shipwreck Explorers
Largest Lake in the World & Largest Lake in the United States - Geology.com
Nature is Nearby on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
Nature is all around and easily accessible on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast!
You’re never far from access to the natural world & its creatures when you call Michigan’s Forgotten Coast home.
Lake Huron provides a home to a diverse ecosystem. You’ll find all sorts of waterfowl and predatory birds fishing in the lake including bald eagles, golden eagles, falcons, hawks, geese, seagulls, swans, ducks, and a lot more.
Obviously, there’s “fish in them there waters” including walleye, salmon, yellow perch, lake trout, sturgeon, whitefish, bass, pike, and more! Fishing is a big draw for tourists to our area and is an activity beloved by many of our citizens as well.
Beyond Lake Huron, you’ll find a vast amount of nature in area forests & farmland. TONS of large whitetail deer, beavers, coyotes, raccoons, rabbits, pheasants, wild turkeys, and recently we’ve even found lynx hanging around. Needless to say, hunting is another attraction for tourists and passion of our locals.
There are hiking trails, bike trails, state game areas, and several other ways for you to get out in this natural landscape. Some of our cities & villages have those access points to nature trails right in town!
If you’d like some links to parks & outdoor activities in the area, click here.
Affordable Living on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
There are many ways living on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast can save you money…but there are also a ton of things to do here!
Let your money go further while living the lake life.
When we first moved here, we were a bit taken aback on how inexpensive certain things were here. It’s not quite what it was 10 years ago, but it’s still an inexpensive place to live.
Housing costs may be the biggest and most noticeable cost savings. Not just housing itself, but insurance, taxes, etc all tend to be lower on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
You can keep food costs down here too. There are no Whole Foods or boutique grocery stores. There are plenty of roadside farm stands and farmers markets. Our summers & soil are perfect for gardening at home. Canning & preserving are commonplace in the area. You can buy meat in bulk, fresh from the farm around the corner. It’s takes a little while to adjust and learn how to take advantage of some of these things, but once you get into it there’s no going back. You can’t beat that “fresh from next door” food.
Part of what helps keep down the cost of living is that there aren’t a lot of high priced activities to spend your money on. Going out tends to be a much more reasonable proposition here. It’s unlikely you’re going to drop over $100 on dinner & drinks in a night out for two. You’re not going to lay down $500 on a family outing to the ball game on a regular basis. Personally, we save that money so we can do fancy things when we travel. We hunker down and get work done when we’re at home and we live large when we explore other communities…or at least larger than we could if we had the living expenses of those communities.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do here!
There are a ton of FREE outdoor activities like biking, hiking, paddlesports, birding, stargazing, fishing, etc. We’ve always had great historical museums like the Frank Murphy Museum, Thumb Octagon Barn, Port Austin History Center, Marlette Train Depot, and many more! Find out more about local beaches, parks, campgrounds, and other outdoor activities here.
Beyond those activities, the area has embraced arts and culture much more over the last decade. It’s common to find live music in several communities during summer weekends. We have art fairs and festivals. We have large scale barn art projects from renowned artists, and smaller scale community placemaking arts projects. It’s getting cooler here all the time!!
Walkable Communities of Michigan's Forgotten Coast
Walk or bike to most everything you need in the communities of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
Leave your car in the driveway, walkability is a huge benefit of life here.
Walk or bike to most everything you need. The grocery store, hardware store, boutiques, restaurants, bars, dr. offices, gym, yoga studio, the library, city hall, beaches, parks, schools, churches, and most other things you might need are just blocks away in the cities & villages of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast!
Many of our small cities and villages have dedicated walking & bike trails through the community or into natural areas surrounding it. Some even have trails that lead all the way to another community!
Lake Huron
Lake Huron is by far the biggest asset to the communities of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast. She provides drinking water, outdoor water activities & tourism, feeds our crops, provides habitat & food for our wildlife, and moderates our weather…there’s a lot to Lake Huron.
Lake Huron surrounds and defines Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
If you haven’t experienced Lake Huron (or any Great Lake) before, think of it more as a fresh water sea than a lake. It’s HUGE. You can’t see across it in most places and the weather on the open lake can get wild enough to sink ships. In fact, our area has many shipwrecks you can dive and even a few you can see from the water’s surface!
It has beaches, both sandy and rocky versions. There are cliffs & cool rock formations. We have many lighthouses on the shoreline and in the lake itself. Our communities have created harbors with break walls, piers, fishing platforms, and several parks on the shores of the mighty lake.
If you love swimming, kayaking, waterskiing, sailing, fishing, scuba diving, duck hunting, or just watching the sun rise & set over the water, Lake Huron on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast is where it’s at!
If you’d like some links to parks & outdoor activities in the area, click here.
4 Seasons of Fun on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
Enjoy the ever changing landscape of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast as we rotate through four distinct seasons.
It’s nice to be back in a place that has 4 very distinct seasons after living in areas where they don’t.
Summer
Summer is most peoples favorite season. Our summers can be hot…like 90’s+ at some points. That’s not something people from elsewhere realize about Michigan’s Forgotten Coast. It’s a fantastic time to enjoy all Lake Huron has to offer as the temperature of the lake is at its highest. We’re full of tourists and our communities are bustling. Beaches, boating, picnics, and community events…it’s a vibrant time here.
Fall
Fall is probably the 2nd favorite season around here. Lake Huron is still warm from the summer months and that helps keep our air temperatures a little warmer than other places as far north as we are. The farms are harvesting. The fall colors are stunning. The pumpkin patches and cider mills are in full swing. High school football is underway (that’s very important here). Our people are anticipating the cold winter and trying to soak up as much outdoor activity as possible.
Winter
Winter gets a bad rap around here. If you can work from home like us, it’s really quite beautiful. Falling snow has such a peaceful quality. Driving in it can be a bit dicey, but we have great county and local resources to deal with the snow and ice. But, forget that part. Winter hiking or snowshoeing is amazing. It’s so quiet and tranquil. You may catch a snowy owl hanging out or some deer foraging in the woods. Many people enjoy ice fishing…if you’ve never seen that before, check it out…it’s a trip. If the lake is frozen enough for ice fishing, you may also be able to get out there and ice skate or snowmobile. Or, if you don’t want to get out in the snow, sit by the fireplace with a cozy blanket and just enjoy the view. There’s plenty to do all winter long!
Spring
Spring tends to be a wet & muddy time as the snow melts and the ground thaws. It’s time for our farmers to get those crops in the ground. After that long grey winter, seeing the first blooms of spring on the trees or in the fields is a welcome site. You’ll see local kids out in their t-shirt & shorts as soon as it’s over 40 degrees, ready to get out of the house. Once the flowers start blooming, we all know our favorite season is just around the corner.
Safe & Sound on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
Help is just around the corner in the cities and villages of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
No need to worry, help is just around the corner.
The communities on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast are prepared to help in an emergency but they’re also well equipped for the day to day medical needs of the citizens.
A very important part of our communities are our well equipped and well trained volunteer fire fighters who are ready to jump into action whenever they’re called to duty. Be it a car accident, medical emergency, or barn fire in the dead of winter. These folks are heroes in our communities.
We have the kind of local policing that engages our communities. The kind where the officers live with us and know our citizens. I’ve lived in many places where this is not the case and I must say it’s one of my favorite things about the area.
We have a hospitals and doctors offices in most of our communities or nearby.
Many of our communities also have dentists, opticians, and other healthcare professionals.
If we have some sort of issue, everything we need to solve it is right around the corner!
High Speed Broadband & Infrastructure
The cities & villages of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast have great infrastructure just waiting for you!
The infrastructure on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast is ready.
Many rural areas don’t have great access to broadband, but we do. Being digital workers, that was extremely important to us when we moved to the area. Our cities and villages are well connected. We were one of the 1st places in the country to have lit fiber in the ground!
One of the local communities (Sebewaing) has its own village owned ISP and also provides energy to its citizens. Even though we have strong storms & winds in our area, we’ve never lost power at our house. Not once. The outlying communities have, but in our small city, we haven’t in 10 years.
Our city also processes our own drinking water and waste water. Most of the water processing plants in the area are under capacity, so we have lots of room to grow!
Community Connection on Michigan's Forgotten Coast
In the cities and villages of Michigan’s Forgotten Coast you can watch your tax dollars at work as the DPW works on cleaning the streets, fixing the sewer, planting trees, or building a new park for the citizens. It’s right there, every day. You can see it.
Feel the connection to your city or village itself.
You can watch your tax dollars at work as the DPW works on cleaning the streets, fixing the sewer, planting trees, or building a new park for the citizens. It’s right there, every day. You can see it.
You can also very easily interact with your local government. The mayor lives a couple blocks up the street. A couple city councilmen live within two blocks and the rest are within about 10 blocks. They’re available to the citizens and take our concerns to heart.
The ability to be part of the civic and non-profit organizations is another way to be directly involved with and take pride in the community in which you live.
Get Involved in Your Community!
Our communities are small and need participation from a broad cross section of the citizens to continue to be viable and grow. You’ll find open arms at most community organizations on Michigan’s Forgotten Coast.
Community involvement is an integral part of continuing to make Michigan’s Forgotten Coast and even better place to live & work.
When we lived in a larger city, it felt like we were disconnected from of a lot of local government & organizations. We were young and a bit of outsider weirdo creative types…it didn’t feel like we were invited to the table. Not who they were looking for. That may not have been the reality, but that’s how it felt.
That’s not the case here. Our communities are small and need participation from a broad cross section of the citizens to continue to be viable and grow. You’ll find open arms at most community organizations. You’ll also see those organizations doing good in your community on a regular basis. When you help with these organizations, you can see the direct impact you’ve made in your community. It feels good.
That’s the same case with our local governments. As a transplant, it’s probably not going to be easy to run for a local office but you definitely can have access to your local government and have your voice heard. The council meetings don’t tend to be crowded affairs. The elected officials will live very close by. Their kids will be in school or sports with yours. You might be part of the same community organizations or church. If you prove to have some insight or could help the city government, you may be appointed to a commission or a board or something to help the local government. We see that pretty often.