While traveling around the beautiful states of Michigan and Wisconsin, there are lots of activities you can participate in ranging from 5Ks, biking, and kayaking. Enjoy the scenic views kayaking around Pictured Rocks, biking around Mackinaw Island, and hiking to the Big Manitou Falls during a relaxing trip to the many tourist attractions around Michigan and Northeastern Wisconsin
In the Traverse City area, the summer races begin in late June. The Glen Arbor Solstice Half-Marathon is a half marathon and 5k run/walk around Big Glen Lake and the quaint town of Glen Arbor. Then, as part of the National Cherry Festival in July, there is the Meijer Festival of Races, with a 5K run/walk and a 15k. After the races, enjoy the shops in downtown Traverse City, relax at a local winery, or take a visit to Old Mission Light House on the alluring Lake Michigan.
While visiting Sleeping Bears Dunes National Park, participate in the M22 Challenge. The M22 Challenge is a triathlon beginning with a 2.5 mile run through the Sleep Bear Dunes Lakeshore, a 100 yard climb up the infamous sand dune, and a sprint back to the event's starting point. After the running, bike 17 miles along Northern Michigan's most scenic bike routes along the Crystal River, Little and Big Glen Lake, and through a tunnel of trees. Then, finish the challenge with a 2.5 mile paddle across Little Glen Lake. This will leave you breathless in many ways, as it's been called the most beautiful race in America.
After exploring the Great Lakes State, head over to Wisconsin to enjoy the many natural wonders around the state. Hike to the Big Manitou Fall, the fourth tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Or on a hot summer day cool down while exploring the Cave of the Mounds, known as the jewelry box of Americas major caves.
Head over to Door County, WI, the Cape Cod of the Midwest, for a series of triathlons the whole family can enjoy. For the experienced competitors, the half iron course begins with a 1.2 mile swim in the clear blue waters of Horseshoe Bay.
Then a 56 mile bike route includes a stretch for 13 miles along the shoreline of the bay before a challenging double-loop through the bluff area north of Sturgeon Bay. This course is not for the weak, as after the challenging bike ride the competitor must finish with a 13.1 mile run through the infamous Bluff Pass Road. If this challenge sounds too advanced for you, try the Sprint Distance race instead. This race includes a quarter-mile swim and an extremely flat bike and running course. If your children are interested in being involved as well, enter them into the Kids’ Triathlon, where they can swim, bike, and sprint a smaller version of the above races.
In the great states of Michigan and Wisconsin you will never run out of activities to participate in. Whether you want to stay close to home, travel a few hours, or cross the state borders, there is no shortage of options to consider. Although, if you want to stay active on your own without a race, there’s ample opportunity to hike, kayak, bike, and run in any of the many trails and rivers around the states. Make plans to explore your home state and enjoy the many hidden treasures it has to offer.
To view the article in the online 2022 Summer Partners Magazine, click here.
