News & Fun in Michigan
Port Austin, is at the the tip of Michigan’s Thumb. The end of the road. From such a stance one can stand in the harbor and see a beautiful sunrise and sunset over Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay without moving an inch. Blessed with clear water, sandy beaches and dunes, unique rock formations, and the finest fishing anywhere.
Cute shops, a top rated farmer’s market, a variety of parks, camping, accommodations and visitor ‘fun stuff’ are all plentiful.
Travel West on M-25 and find the shoreline dotted with parks, beaches and recreational facilities. Head East and visit historic areas such as Grindstone City. Go back in time with in the the restored lumber town museum of Huron City. Take in the vista at Lighthouse County Park featuring historic Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse.
Huron County blocks off an public lake access point and boat ramp at Oak Beach County Park. Used for over 50 years by fishermen and kayakers. A group has formed to protest and seek improvements to the boat launch.
The accidental find of the Marshal Sandstone formation in Michigan’s Upper Thumb in 1834 gave rise to one of the areas first industries. Grindstone City became famous for its production of huge grinding wheels until a disruptive technology change slid the industry into obsolescence.
Port Austin Summertime Farmers Market is a great way to spend a morning sorting through trash and treasure.
Its also has some wonderful sites and smells to perk up your mood after a long week.
The name Pointe Aux Barques was coined by French sailors and voyageurs in about 1760. The name literally means the point of boats, This is because the rock formations at the tip of the Thumb looked like the prow of a ship. It was also known as a hideout for sailors.
The year is 1912. An exclusive modern resort community is opened at the tip of Michigan’s thumb with direct train service from Detroit. For over 100 years it has been a resort community.
We went looking for over a dozen free things to in Michigan’s Thumb. This are fun for the family and only cost your time and travel.
The next time you brush your teeth or wash your face you may be contributing to adding plastic into the Great Lakes.
The Port Austin Winter Carnival returns after a decade in hibernation. The weekend festivities at the tip of the Thumb begin Friday, February 5-7, 2021.
The past pandemic has caused folks to curtail travel. However a new interest in camping now giving families safe way to be outdoors and explore safely.
Also the Michigan DNR has worked with local companies that offer RV and camper rental delivery and set up services in Michigan’s State Parks. This allows outdoor camping for those who want the experience of staying in a camper but not the ownership of one.
