Michigan Top 5

What you need to escape to is a small nature preserve whose amenities are a trail, a map stapled to board and an observation deck overlooking only what Mother Nature has provided.

The Great Lakes State offers ribbons of waters and pools of blue for leisurely exploration.

I’ll never forget those afternoons on a dock waiting for our red-and-white bobbers to dip underwater.

From delicate lady’s slippers to showy white trillium, the season is a sensory delight.

Whether your destination holds exploring shipwreck relics or meandering sandy island dunes, these little boats make getting there half the fun.

The way to turn winter blahs into a love for that frozen season is to get up, get out and get going whether it’s on skis, ice skates, snowshoes or a snowmobile — then top off the outing with a hearty spread prepared with care.

Don’t just admire the view. Get out and drape yourself in autumn’s glory.

Best long trails: Take views to go - Turn scenic footpaths into multiple day adventures, or shorten these routes for day hikes to remember. By Jim DuFresne

Sittin’ on the dock on the bay is nice, but traversing along it is even better.

Meander out into spring, then fling open menus with just the right brews or bites.