Monday, September 14, 2015

Things to Do on Beaver Island: Little Sand Bay

Beaver Island is a downright mystery to most people.  They ask where I live and when I reply the responses range from…

"Are there beavers there?" to "Never heard of it."  to "Why?!?!"

I thought that if I started doing a Things to Do on Beaver Island segment of my blog people might be a little less confused…or not, whatever works. You'll probably notice that most of these things involve just (insert outdoor activity here) around in nature.  Honestly, that's just the majority of what there is to do here.  There are a few community events sprinkled throughout the year, but nothing super crazy.  For all of you outdoor enthusiasts though, it's a paradise!


Little Sand Bay Preserve is one of my favorite hikes on the island. Right past the airport there is a two-track trail that you can drive your car down.  A sign marks it for what it is. You drive a little ways back into the fields, but don't worry your car won't get stuck.  Another old, painted sign shows where to park.  I've never seen any other people out here hiking, so I don't imagine you'll be fighting for parking ever.  Next to the parking is an awesome abandoned house.  The house is from the original Mormon settlers on the island.



The trail is mostly a dirt path in the beginning and you'll traverse through some tall dune grass and abundant apple trees (feel free to snack).  The trail then heads into a winding, swamp-like section of the island.  Boardwalks dot the trail to help with the high water in some spots. It is very mossy with lots of fallen trees, which makes it seem like the Pacific Northwest or SE Alaska for a stretch.  Finally, the trees part and you are out on a huge, sandy beach with endless wildflowers.  It's pretty stunning to walk out of this dark and wooded trail only to be blinded by Lake Michigan. 


This trail comes highly recommended by me, especially if you are wanting a look into the islands many ecosystems.  It is also a popular birding trail and beavers are often seen building in the swamps, which is very cool!

Your turn…What are some of your favorite beach trails?
Currently listening to…New Slang - The Shins

14 comments:

  1. I don't have any favorite beach trails. I guess I had to venture out more.

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    1. Definitely! Beach trails are the best because they end with a reward :)

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  2. I haven't heard of Beaver Island either. Looks very pretty though!

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    1. It's a large island in Northern Michigan…kind of like Mackinac, but larger with more cars and less people. Haha.

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  3. Looks quite peaceful :) I don't have a lot of favorite beach trails anymore - by the time I say the word beach, the kids start dragging toys, chairs, etc and I hope for a close parking spot! LOL

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    1. Haha! I actually hiked the trail this week with my friend and her triplets. It's a bit of a feat to keep them out of the water and on the trail. Great spot if you can make it back there though!

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  4. Great island. A must visit for me. Thanks for sharing some photos and info of it.

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    1. Thanks! It's a very interesting place to live and visitors always seem to enjoy it. Keep it on the "must visit" list!

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  5. That is so pretty. My place is Tawas. I think I shall retire there.

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    1. Tawas is on my list of places to visit! Glad to hear you like it!

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  6. Looks like a real nice, and peaceful place. I love being outdoors.

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  7. I havent been to beaver island but being a yooper o have heard of its quaint uniqueness.

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    1. Always happy to hear from a yooper! The UP is one of my favorite places :)

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