Sandra Friend

Sandra Friend

Florida
Three decades and 45 books into her writing career, Sandra Friend enjoys walks in the woods and learning through travel. She's been honored with lifetime achievement awards for her outdoor writing.
31
Aug
Cyclists riding a highway next to aquamarine waters

Circling Mackinac Island

The ultimate car-free paved bike loop in Michigan, the M-185 on Mackinac Island is worth its challenges to enjoy the beauty and access to trails.
6 min read
31
Aug
Lighthouse with red roofs and stone walls

The Shores of Whitefish Bay

A chance glance at a road sign on the way to Paradise led us on an unexpected but delightful half day exploration of the shores of Whitefish Bay in Hiawatha National Forest.
5 min read
29
Aug
People on platform upper right looking at huge waterfall below.

Another Day in Paradise

It’s just another day in Paradise for us, except we actually are in Paradise, Michigan, an excellent base camp for visiting Taquamenon Falls and Whitefish Point.
6 min read
25
Aug
Chasing Rockets in the Keweenaw

Chasing Rockets in the Keweenaw

When we got wind of a rocket launch site at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, it was time for another off-road adventure.
4 min read
24
Aug
Small red berries similiar to raspberries in texture but button shaped

Time for Thimbleberries

Who expected to go foraging for berries in the Keweenaw? Not us! But a thimbleberry margarita led to woodland wanders looking for this tasty fruit.
5 min read
22
Aug
Bike path with artistic trail marker

Iron Ore Heritage Trail

Taking on a history-rich segment of Michigan’s Iron Ore Heritage Trail was satisfying as a bike ride and as a cultural immersion. Now if only I’d stayed on the trail...
9 min read
18
Aug
Park Hopping near Manistique

Park Hopping near Manistique

A duo of state parks near Manistique - Palms Book and Fayette - showcases two very different periods of Michigan history in two outstanding natural settings.
4 min read
15
Aug
Cyclist holding a Petoskey stone

Finding Petoskey Stones

Where should you search for Petoskey stones? Petoskey, Michigan, of course! On our explorations by bike of this coastal town, we found our fair share. Here’s where to look and how to make them shine.
5 min read
09
Aug
Little riffle rapids over river rocks

Riding the Big Rapids Riverwalk

Along the Muskegon River in Michigan, Big Rapids Riverwalk stretches several miles through the heart of Big Rapids, with scenic views of - you guessed it - river rapids from this linear park that links with the White Pine Trail.
4 min read
06
Aug
Vibrant art in arcs

The Art of Pasaquan

A story that must be shown: Pasaquan, the artistic expression of a man whose visions led him to embrace all belief systems and make up one of his own
2 min read