Brian Walters

Music on the Mountain 2026: Full Lineup Announced

Last year’s return of Music On The Mountain was a resounding success, leading to this year’s eight shows. The performances have moved to Wednesday nights at the top of Bay Mountain, The Homestead’s ski hill, with the same stunning backdrop: Evening sunset over Lake Michigan’s sparkling waters. The…

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Follow the Flight: Spring Birding Around Sleeping Bear

Each spring, northern Michigan becomes a crossroads for migrating birds returning to the Great Lakes region. Forests fill with song, wetlands come alive with activity, and open grasslands host species rarely seen elsewhere in the state. For birdwatchers and nature lovers alike, it’s one of the most…

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The First Day of Spring

It’s the first day of spring in Northern Michigan. Usually, this time of year brings a certain kind of excitement. The kind where you wake up to a little more sunlight streaming through the window, the sun stays awake past its recent 5 pm bedtime, and the snow starts to melt just enough to reveal…

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Hoth – or Pyramid Point?

In the winter, Pyramid Point trail in the Sleeping Bear Dunes turns into Hoth, and I highly recommend it, Star Wars fan or not. The easy, serene trail of summer transforms into a wild, untamed frontier in the winter. The experience is like none other – and by that, I mean, you might spend some time…

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Inside Winter Delights

There’s something to be said for getting outside in the snow – but there’s also a lot to be said for sitting inside cozy, warm, and dry – with a mug of hot cocoa (or maybe knitting needles!) in your hands. Here are a handful of ideas on how to get out and see people this winter – with minimal…

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The gift box to savor (or fight over!)

These foodie gift boxes will bring your loved ones the joy of Leelanau County – and a tiny scuffle over THAT cheese or THAT cherry treat - so, brace yourself. Here’s a handful (mouthful) of yummy options to get your gift list done for the season – and done well. All of these businesses offer a wide…

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