Most Michiganders have never been to the Upper Peninsula or at least never further than Mackinac Island. It’s a strange and mysterious place to us fudgies, full of ghost towns, great empty beaches, dense bear-and-wolf-filled forests, abandoned lumber camps, and the only “mountains” you’ll find in Michigan. Only 3% of Michigan residents call the U.P. home, but they are fiercely protective of and madly in love with their home.
Celebrate Michigan and take a trip to the U.P. You’ll find a lot more than you think.
History
Although it looks like it should be part of Wisconsin, the U.P. became part of Michigan after the Toledo War between Michigan and Ohio in 1836. It wasn’t really a war, more like a very intense argument. The end result was that we got the U.P., Ohio got the Toledo strip along Lake Erie, and we ended up with all of the copper and iron to be found underground and benefitted from the vast supplies of timber. Nowadays, the timber and mining is a mere trickle of what it used to be, and a major resource is tourism.
Things to Expect
- Gorgeous scenery, literally everywhere.
- A lack of crowds, lines, and light pollution
- Fresh air, fresh water, fresh fish
- Rustic, basic, comfortable accommodations
- Wildlife sightings of bear, deer, elk, moose, eagles, wolves, and much more.
- Surprising pockets of ‘civilization,’ including casinos, universities and shopping
What NOT to expect
- Luxury, 4 and 5 star resorts
- Wi-Fi, cellphone and Internet access everywhere
- Gourmet food
- Friendly, ‘eager to please and serve the tourist’ residents
- Malls, destination shopping
Yoopers
Commonly called Yoopers (and we Lower Peninsula residents are Fudgies or Trolls), U.P. residents are not the most friendly bunch. Do not go expecting service with a smile or a massive effort to please spoiled vacationers. These are very independent, rugged, sometimes suspicious people. Although they welcome the tourist dollar, they don’t really like you or want you there all that much. The U.P. has tried to secede from Michigan and form a 51st state many times. The last serious attempt was in 1970. They often feel alienated and under-represented from the ‘mainland.’ The U.P. has its own problems with alcoholism, drugs, and abuse, just like any other area. If you can adjust to that attitude and not let it bother you, you will find a wonderful place to visit and drink in the natural beauty. The U.P. is also home to many Native American tribes and tribal lands, so be respectful.
The Weather and Surroundings
The weather is like the rest of Michigan, capable of change at any moment. It is usually colder in the U.P., so be prepared and bring clothing for both warm and cold days. Rain gear is essential, as is sunblock and bug spray! Black Flies and Mosquitoes are the worst pests here, depending on the time of year and recent rain. A light breeze helps keep them off, but expect to be bitten. Gas up whenever you can, and keep your car in good condition. Be prepared for emergencies, since cell phone coverage is spotty and emergency services may be many miles away. Self reliance is your best form of protection.
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