Monday 8/3: Day 2

Monday 8/3

     Woke up in big knob and went for a run down the entrance road. I wouldn’t call it awesome running, but it was cool, and gravel, so it worked fine. Not very hot this trip means less enticing swimming, but we jumped in afterward for good measure.

Kate mentioned that a guy leaving the beach on the path said “it’s just horrible” down there. She went down to find a very nice sand beach that looked almost the same as from our memories from 5 years ago. Dunked under despite the 64 degree air temps to clean off if nothing else. 

Hit the road around 11:30 bound for St. Ignace and mackinac island. Pulled up at just before 1 and the lady at the dock mentioned that if we hurried, we’d catch the 1:00, which we indeed did and were on our way to the island. The ferry was busy, but masks were required and most people wore them correctly.

The island was an absolute zoo when we got off. Again, a lot of masks, even outside on the street, but so many people that the main drag wasn’t really enjoyable. Not that I’m sure it would have been in normal times. It was kind of like bourbon street in terms of appearance and “dolled” up appeal. We found a sandwich shop on the water a little away from the mayhem and had a great lunch over looking the marina. 

Meandered down the path away from town, and found some awesome Adirondack chairs to lounge in and gaze at Lake Huron. Climbed some steps up the tall bluffs a little further down the path and took a nice wooded trail back down past the fort to town. I briefly considered visiting the fort, but it was 14$ and didn’t seem all that appealing at the time for whatever reason. A lot of cool history though. Occupied since 1780, I believe, and fought over during the war of 1812.

Found our way to the brewery in town and had a drink on the back patio. The beer was terrible, which I feared and also don’t say very often. I think I worry that in such a touristy area, you’re going to attract someone who thinks it’s a good business venture, rather than a passionate brewery that wants to try to make it into a career.

Caught the ferry back and checked into our hotel, which was right in the lake. Pretty cheap, too, at 110$. Did a quick double, then we grabbed dinner at the drfitwood off the main drag. Kate at the whitefish slab and I had perch. Both were awesome.

St. Ignace is also very touristy. The main drag is lined with fudge shops and motels.