Michigan's "Little Finger" and "Tip of the Mitt" region is a year round recreational wonderland, where world-class golf and winter sports have replaced the logging operations that brought settlers to the area.
In July, I made my way to Gaylord, Michigan, which is home to Treetops Resort.  I went to Detroit to Traverse City, MI by plane, and then on to Gaylord which was a 75-minute car ride northeast from Traverse City.  

During the drive to Gaylord, I saw Lake Michigan, as well as the rugged natural charm and gorgeous landscapes that resonate so well with the state's tagline: Pure Michigan.  I was surprised by the abundance of locally-produced fudge shops in the area...these people must REALLY love their fudge here.  Plus, I had one of the best shuttle drivers ever...Pat Sheridan.  This guy had me laughing the entire car ride...what a comedian!  I'll never forget him.

I arrived at Treetops Resort, which is situated on 3,500 acres of pristine Michigan soil.  The property is beautiful.  In fact, when Travel Michigan filmed the Pure Michigan Campaign they came to Treetops.  The resort boasts 81 holes of championship golf designed by golf greats Robert Trent Jones Sr., Tom Fazio and Rick Smith.  Treetops is home to a full-service spa, conference and meeting facilities, indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpools, along with a variety of dining and accommodations options, and award-winning children's programs with a fully-certified daycare facility on site.  Plus, they are well known for their winter ski programs for families.

My first morning in Michigan was spent rafting on the Sturgeon River.  Three of us were sent off on our inflatable raft with some oars and a half-concocted plan as to how we'd work together as a team.  Much to my and Chelle's surprise, we actually did pretty well.  The river was relaxing enough for us to take in the natural beauty but provided enough action that kept us entertained.  Many thanks to Big Bear Adventures for a fun morning.

After our rafting expedition, I served as cart girl and beer opener as the others played Treetops Resort's Threetops Course, which is considered the Best Par-3 Course on Earth by some.  Designed by Rick Smith, his first par three course received national recognition since it opened, and it consistently ranks as the #1 par three course in America by Golf Magazine, Golfweek and Golf & Travel. It's perhaps the most recognized par three course in America. For a number of years, Threetops hosted the ESPN Par 3 Shootout.

Later that evening, we made our way to Downtown Gaylord to attend the Gaylord Alpenfest, which has been one of Northern Michigan's most unique and fun festivals for 47 years.  This annual Swiss-themed festival is held in July with live music, Queen's Pageant, parade, carnival, food and drinks.  Why Alpenfest?  Gaylord's sister city is Pontresina, Switzerland, which is a tourist community of about 1,800 people.  This 850-year-old village is located at the foot of the majestic Bernina Peaks.  With live entertainment and wacky contests (Ladies Best Ankles and Men's Best Knees), Alpenfest is great fun!
After a relaxing morning at the resort and a wonderful massage at the spa, we were ready for some fly fishing on one of Michigan's gorgeous rivers.  We met up with Phil Croff from CC Guide Service so I could try my hand a fly fishing.  Just putting on the waders proved challenge enough for me, but with my new fashion statement (waders are sexy), I was ready to catch some fish.  We ended up with no fish (although I had a big bite), but we had a great time fishing until midnight under a full moon in one of Phil's handcrafted row boats that was beautiful.  

I quickly realized that my trip to Northern Michigan was too short.  Treetops is currently undergoing a massive renovation, so I will be anxious to see the final result.  If you are looking for summer or winter time fun in Northern Michigan, be sure to check out Treetops.  Summer rates (one night, one round of golf and breakfast) starts at $97/person and winter rates (one night, ski and breakfast) starts at $79/person. Both rates are based on double occupancy and based on availability. 
Many thanks to everyone who made my very first trip to Michigan a memorable one!