Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Hello, friends and welcome back! It’s almost mid-July and we’ve been enjoying our summer as much as possible here in beautiful Northern Michigan. The kids camp in Bay View is in full swing and I’m so, so thankful that the weather is finally starting to warm up here in Petoskey. Our afternoons and evenings are spent on the boat and heading to the beach every chance we get and the kids love staying up late and I love them sleeping in!
(Photo Credit: Headland’s International Dark Sky Park)
If you’re looking for a fun summer night activity here in Northern Michigan I’ve been researching a unique new attraction welcome to everyone. Take an evening and head north to Mackinaw City, take a left and drive a few miles outside of town out toward Lake Michigan. You’ll find yourself at the Headland’s International Dark Sky Park. A gorgeous and remote stretch of 550 acres in Emmet county on Lake Michigan outside of Mackinaw City that allows visitors to view the night sky without any interruptions.
The Headland’s was established in 1950 and now boasts a guest house visitors can rent, a well-groomed trail system and is now one of 10 International Dark Sky Parks around the world. The park is open year round, 24 hours a day and admission is free. Camping is not allowed but visitors are welcome to stay the night and are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, snacks and beverages if they wish.
(Photo Credit: Headland’s International Dark Sky Park)
In the upcoming weeks Headland’s visitors can look forward to the following programs:
July 18 – A Little Night Music
July 22 – The Allure of Night Sky Photography
July 31 – Blue Moon Picnic
August 11 – Lights Out and The Perseids Picnic
Want to make a day of the park? It’s open 24 hours a day and the 550 secluded acres include over 5 miles of trails through secluded forest. Every 10th of a mile includes a sign that information and history on the planets and our solar system.
(Photo Credit: Headland’s International Dark Sky Park)
Spend the morning or afternoon hiking the scenic trails on the Headland’s property and then head into Mackinaw City for some dinner and shopping. Once dusk hits, head back out to the Dark Sky Park where you can view the planets and constellations in total darkness and pristine solitude.
We plan on heading to Mackinaw City next weekend for the Little Night Music event on the evening of July 18th. The kids love staying up late and this will be the perfect time to check the park out.
Have you been to the Dark Sky Park yet? If yes, what did you think?
