Walloon Lake MI Things To Do

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• Walloon Lake
• Things to do
• Hiking
• Birding
• Kayak/Canoe
• X Country/Snowshoe
• Hunting
• Boating
• Dining

Walloon Lake

Walloon Lake, located in Petoskey, Michigan. Where you will truly be up north in the most beautiful lake region ever. Here there is just about everything one could wish for to do in the outdoors. To live on this lake it does not come cheap, but if you are looking to buy a house there it could run you anywhere from 1.5 million to 5 million. Renting a house may be more in your budget and can average from $300 a night to $1500 a night. No matter how you get to Walloon Lake you will be in for a real treat. 

Things to do

Hiking

There are many trails that you can explore on. Hiking is an awesome way to spend your day. There are marked trails throughout Lake, Walloon. You can also look at Wood Maps of Wallon Lake to find places to hike. On different marked trails, you will know more of what to expect on each trail and find the one suited for your needs and what you are hoping to get out of your hike. Red trail has sloping hills. Blue trail is more challenging and rugged. Wildwood Harbor preserve is a marked trail featuring a small dock overlooking the north shore of Lake Evangline. Biking along these trails is something you may also want to consider.

Birding

Birding is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon. This is a great habitat for many forestry and animals. Different bird species flock to this habitat. On the Field Preserve you may be able to spot a Red Winged Blackbird, Bobolink, or a Barrel Owl. On the Cedar Valley Preserve you may have a potential sighting of a Wood Peewee, Ovenbird, Great Crested Fly Catcher or a Sandhill Crane. In the Cherry Lane Nature Area you are most likely to see a Wood Thrush, Veery or Ovenbird. If you want to explore Wildwood Harbour Preserve you might catch a glimpse of an American Redstart, Veery, Wood Peewee or various Wood Peckers. If you are a bird enthusiast, this is the place for you.

Kayak/Canoe

If you like the water more kayaking or canoeing might be what you want. If you want to see the sights from the water this is a great way to do it. If you go on Stolt Road it will take you thru Mill Pond. Camp Sherwood Road will take you south of camp Michigan and Mackinaw State along the forest shoreline. A gorgeous sight to see at any time of year, but especially in the fall. With all the fall foliage, it is truly amazing.

X Country/Snowshoe

Maybe winter is the season you love? If so, this majestic place has plenty to offer. You can explore the woods and trails on snowshoes or cross country style. When the wetlands have frozen over the wet meadows and cedar swamps are truly amazing, almost taking you back in time. 

Hunting

If hunting is your thing, then this is the place to be. Lake, Walloon has a lot to offer for this timeless tradition. It is controlled hunting, of course, during the regular hunting season and with a permit.

Boating

Maybe boating is your passion. Of course boating is must here. Whether you bring your own boat or rent one here it is a fantastic adventure on the lake. Renting a boat could cost anywhere from $250 a day to upwards of $1000 per day. Great places to check out would be Boyne Recreational Rental or Walloon Central Power Sports and Marina. 

Dining

A favorite necessity of everyone is of course dinning. There are many great options for dining around this area. Barrel Back has lots of options for American cuisine. Walloon Lake Inn is great for fine dining. Walloon Village is a wonderful option for pizza and sandwiches. Café Sante is a good choice for those of you wanted a vegetarian option or a gluten free meal. Red Mesa Grill is there for those of you who would like Mexican. Julienne Tomatoes are great for up north hospitality serving up American cuisine along with great soups and salads. 

No matter what your passion is for the outdoors Lake, Walloon has it for you. Of course with all the outdoor adventures caution and safety are a must in all activities. So come on up north Michigan and visit Lake, Walloon for your family reunions, vacations, father son or mother daughter getaways. It is a great place for a girls or guys weekend or even if you just need somewhere to go along and get back to nature.

Things To Do In Torch Lake MI- The Sandbar

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• A Piece of Heaven Torch Lake Michigan

A Piece of Heaven Torch Lake Michigan

Your vacation starts with this beautiful lake in Torch Lake Mi, bring the entire family and experience the breathtaking view of the water. They will love you for it. The crystal clear blue water is breathtaking. Share in the experience of relaxing on the two-mile-long sandbar beach. The sandbars are located on the north and south end of the lake, you will be able to see the amazing shades of blue. 

The boats line up off the sandbar to enjoy swimming and socializing with others. If you’re thinking of renting a boat there are many places available to you. The choices are everywhere; you can rent anything from a motorized sports boat to a jet ski. A popular swimming place is on the south end of the lake it's approximately 2 miles long. 

Take your boat out and watch the spectacular sunrise or sunset. Considering the beach faces the west, this is a great spot to watch the sunset. This would be a spectacular place to be with that someone special. The magnificent beauty of the water is unusually clear and exhibit a bright turquoise, that has the overwhelming look that resembles the Caribbean waters. You don’t want to miss that. 

While enjoying the day on the beach don't forget to stop by the many restaurants and enjoy your favorite foods. The smells that radiate up and down the streets will make you hungry. You will also have the option of pulling your boat up to the dock and grab something to eat. This is like a little piece of Heaven.

Take the time to explore our shops throughout the town, but don’t forget to take a little piece of Torch Lake MI home with you. One of our impressive artworks is the Wood Maps of Torch Lake. It’s an elegant piece of artwork that is laser etched and hand stained carved from Baltic Birchwood. The maps show the shoreline and base forms of Torch Lake, and they demonstrate exact shorelines, points of interest and lettering. Exceptional finishing techniques and procedures draw out the natural grain of the wood. Some of the locals say that this artwork is high quality and very precise artwork. Display this fantastic piece of artwork up in your home so that everyone can see and remember the best vacation ever. 

If you’re thinking about moving to Torch Lake MI there are still some bargains left to be had, you just have to look for your diamond in the rough. Property is very desirable and the average sale price is $787,835.00 according to the local listing service. Torch Lake stretches about 19 miles long and approximately 18,770 acres. Torch Lake According to National Geographic Torch Lake is the third most beautiful lake in the entire world with year-round entertainment. This town is full of wonderful and accommodating people that are eager to help make your stay more enjoyable. Book your next ideal vacation at Torch Lake in Michigan, and be ready to have a jaw-dropping experience. 

Common Reasons for Boating Accidents | Choosing the Perfect Gift for the Boater in your Life

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• Inattentive Operator
• Malfunctioning Equipment
• Inexperienced Operators
• Excessive speed
• Using alcohol while operating
• Ignoring navigational rules
• Bad Weather Conditions

Contrary to popular beliefs, boating fatalities do not come from bad weather conditions or treacherous open waters. They, in fact, came from smaller open boats sailing through inland waters. Most of these accidents happen in broad daylight in calm waters, light winds, under good visibility.

In these relatively perfect conditions, passengers do fall overboard. Some activities often resulting in physical injuries and boats can capsize causing fatalities. Here are some of the statistics about boating accidents:

•    According to the US Coast Guard report in 2015, there were 4,158 boating accidents that resulted in 626 fatalities and 2,613 injuries. 

•    Recreational boating accidents cost about $42 million dollars of total damage to property. These accidents have a fatality rate of 5.3 deaths for each 100,000 registered recreational boats. 

•    76% of fatal accidents on seas drowned, where 85% of those numbers did not use any life jackets.

•    Out of 158 accidents reported, at least one person was hit by a boat’s propeller. 

•    8 out of 10 boaters who drowned at seas were passengers of vessels with less than 21 feet in length.

Owning a boat and operating a boat is a big responsibility not everyone can master.  A more cautious operator will get a proper education, check every detail, and follow navigational rules as much as possible. Responsible operators will ensure everyone’s safety during the trip and make sure they behave accordingly while onboard. Sadly, not everyone can do it, as some of the most common accidents on boating occurred in these situations:

Inattentive Operator

Boat operators need constant vigilance at all times when sailing. They constantly need to monitor their boat, weather conditions, and any hazardous situations nearby. Weather conditions at sea change continuously which may require operators to look for early signs of a bad weather. 

Operators should also be sensitive to hazardous conditions nearby. Usually, accidents happen because boats lack a proper lookout. Even in good conditions, there should be a designated person to watch for hazards or threats in the water. 

Malfunctioning Equipment

Proper boat maintenance is an all important factor for its safe and reliable operations. Like cars, operators are responsible for making sure that their boats will run in good condition. They need to perform necessary inspections like checking for cracks and motor parts that may need repair or replacement. 

Inexperienced Operators

According to the yearly report of the US Coast Guard, 71% of deaths occurred on vessels where operators lack proper boating instructions. Another 15% of deaths happened on boats where operators had an approved national boating safety certificate. Inexperienced operators remain as the third leading common cause of boating accidents.

Having a proper education can only lessen the possibility of boating accidents. Operators also need to know how to handle life-threatening situations.

Excessive speed

Like motorized vehicles on the road, operating boats excessive speed is a dangerous thing to do. It can cause several accidents like crashing into another vessel and causing passengers to fall overboard. At top speed, operators will not have any time to react to dangers. 

Using alcohol while operating

Intoxication, drug use and any kind of machinery do not mix well, as it can cause serious injury even death. Alcohol tops the list as the leading contributing factor for fatal accidents on seas. 

Unfortunately, boating communities do not take the matter seriously. Many people still think that it alright to drink alcohol while on board or while operating a boat. This habit can lead to serious accidents like colliding with other vessels and falling overboard because of intoxication. In some states, the legal limit of blood alcohol for operating a boat is about 0.08%, the same limit for car drivers. 

Ignoring navigational rules

Similar to other types of vehicles on land, boats follow special navigational rules. Any violation of these rules, even the slightest misconception can immediately lead to dangerous situations. It can lead to collisions, crashes with other boats or people. Miscalculating the boat’s course can cause the boat to run aground which may lead to serious injuries and drowning. 

Bad Weather Conditions

Weather conditions at seas can literally change within a matter of minutes. Even when forecasted, there are situations that will come up unexpected. Operators need to monitor any changes in the current weather before heading out. They also need to be mindful of any shift in the wind pattern and never ignore any weather alerts.


Boating accidents can be prevented. If you are an avid boater or if you know one these can be an excellent guide on how to avoid any mishaps.  And if you are looking for an excellent gift to give a loved one who is an avid boater, Carved Lake Art has a wide array of nautical gifts for you! Check out these Great Lakes 3-D Nautical Wood Chart of Lake Michigan.

Best Activities in Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is a popular destination for tourists. It offers wide-ranging fun activities and restos satisfying both the body and the belly.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

You have not been on Lake Michigan if you did not see the magnificent view of the Sleeping Bear Dunes. You can walk along its sandy beach and spend the whole day swimming or just soak under the sun. But the best part of it is to hike the dunes. Nothing can beat the scenic view from the dunes. The deep forest laid out and the stunning dunes make it easy to fall in love with the lake.

Glen Haven Historical Village

If you are spending time in the Sleeping Dunes, you might want to come for a side trip in this historical village. It’s great for families to teach their young children about a thing or two about history. Try to spend the afternoon and let the kids have fun watching the blacksmith do his work. Glen Haven Historical Village also hosts a boat museum. The kids will love the rescue cannon fire activity. Overall, it’s a nice and unexpected place to catch a glimpse of history.

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Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Another awesome experience for your trip on the way to Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes is the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Trees lines up the road and will look picturesque during the fall season. The road will come alive with the autumn colors perfect for a more dramatic effect on your pictures. There are several viewing decks along the road and make to do a couple of stops. The view are just breath taking, you can visibly see the pristine waters of the lake. Best of all, it’s free and you will be able to drive in a National park.

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Cherry Republic

Michigan is best known for its cherries. The perfect place to experience their ‘cherry innovations’ is at the Cherry Republic”. They offer great cookie and pie treats made with dark and white chocolates. You might want to try their pecans cookies and cherry crumb pies. They stand up for their name, cherry drinks, everything that you can imagine, they have it. They have drinks like Cherry Ginger Beer to the culinary delicacy of Cherryaki sauce. Don’t know how to use it? Don’t fret; they have recipe cards that might help you. Also, you might want to have wine tasting and the staff will surely assist you in everything.

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H & H Stables

To really have a truly rustic experience with your kids, try to visit H & H Stables. Your kids will love horseback riding activities. The staffs are knowledgeable when it comes to choosing the right horses for your loved ones. If this is your first time riding a horse you don’t need to worry. The staffs are very accommodating in giving you a tour and guide you on your horses. The trail ride is just superb, a scenic view across the county. A great way to end your vacation in one of the Great Lakes adventures for your family.

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Lake Michigan

If you are a lover of the Great Lakes, you would enjoy our framed 3D Nautical Wood Chart of Lake Michigan depicting the shoreline and depths and bottom contours of of one of the BEST of The Great Lakes. Maybe share this with a friend for a future gift idea!

Safety Tips when Boating with Pets

Your pets are you best friends for life. You would not leave them alone in the house or in someone else’s care while you luxuriously stretch out in your boat off to a perfect vacation. Pets and sailing-boating have something in common- they are both high maintenance hobbies-passions.  Having a pet play Skipper onboard is not impossible. In fact, it can be quite fun to dress them up in their life jackets and Gilligan's Island Hats.  Here are some of the tips to ensure your pet’s safety while sailing:

1.    Prepare your boats for pets

Check your boat before bringing any animals on board, especially for cat owners. Boats are full of tiny holes and openings perfect for your cat to comfortably sit in (no matter how small it may look). Also, make sure the engine compartment is sealed, and close off any holes leading to it, or in it. You would not want to drag your cat out of the engine compartment while afloat..

For cat owners, you may want to add safety nets or ropes around the side of your boat. We all know cats hate water so if they slip or jump overboard, the nets can save you pet’s life. It is also important for cats and dogs to get familiar with your boat. Let them get comfy onboard before sailing.

2.    Pet Safety

Yup! Life jackets do exist for your pets, and it comes in all different sizes and color. Some may even come in bright and vibrant color and a useful handle. You can check your local veterinary store to see if they can order one for you. Dogs can possible go overboard and is advisable for them to wear one. But before you put them on this life jacket, try introducing to them first. For cats, however, the nets are the main safety precaution for them as life jackets can interfere with their mobility.

3.    Get a pet microchip

What’s the worst that can happen when traveling with your pet? Well, authorities can take your pet away from you because of insufficient documentations. How to prevent it? Get pet microchips with their vaccination information. These are the most common requirement in most countries (if you plan going on cross country sailing). You may want to put the boat’s information engrave in your pet’s collar.

4.    Schedule pet potty stops

Pets need to use a bathroom break too! Most cats are trained to use cat litter. You can simply put cat litter on top of a non-slip mat to avoid it getting on the way. Clean it as often as possible so the boat won’t smell something that came out of a toilet. Dogs, on the other hand, can be trained to use newspaper which makes it easier for everybody onboard. But whenever possible, make marina stops a necessary as throwing poop in the open waters are illegal – everywhere in the world.

5.    Keep your pets hydrated

Always keep your pets hydrated. Make sure your pets can hide under a shade or an under an umbrella. Keep them away from the harsh sunlight and keep an eye on your pets.  Prepare a bowl of fresh water beside them and refill it as often as possible.

Shop our collection of nautical gifts for the boat lovers in your lives. Carved Lake Art has a wide array of gifts from the Great Lakes gifts to West Coast bodies of water and everywhere in between.

Our most popular items right now are these, Maps Of Lake Michigan.

And just for good measure: here is BOAT DOG!