Born and raised in MI, visit the island every summer and it never gets old. It transforms in the evening after the last ferry leaves. One of my favorite places on earth.
My parents and younger sister lived there year-round for 3 years. I worked there for 2 summers. Met my husband there my second year. We honeymooned there in 1977. Took our children there in 1991.
I'm 56 years old and still remember my 1st visit to Mackinac and Mackinac Island back in the 70s. One of my fondest memories is riding around the island on bikes. My dad was winded just like you were. Michgan native but i've lived in SC for 20 years, ready to retire and ready to return to Mackinac with our RV.
Thank you!❤️ I was so parched, you got to see a little bit of southern come out. It doesn’t happen very often. LOL. We don’t hide our mistakes or the truth. It’s the best part of RVing and the memories we carry with us. 😀 Best, Lee & Pam.
@@discoveryboundrv First time watching your channel. When you said, "Lord have mercy," I said, "He sounds southern." (Alabama here and love Mackinac Is; been twice and stayed at the Grand. Also, RVers, and would never have never thought about camping that far north, but the campground looked so nice. Maybe one day, we will take the travel trailer up there.... And, get a few more stickers for our USA map.
Great videos! We love Mackinac Mill Creek!! A few Michigan terms. U P, not ‘up’, is when you want to reference the Upper Peninsula. A troll is one who lives below “the bridge”, hence, making us trolls. If you live in lower MI, and your heading north, you’re always going “up north”, but not the UP “up north.” That’s just simply the U P. We’re true Michiganders, but a few things we had to chuckle at, and of course, along with you. 😉1) Remember, south of the bridge is not the UP. Once you cross “the Bridge”, THEN you’re in the UP, 2) good luck finding a Walmart up there. Closest one was in Cheboygan, pro “shh-boy-gan” 3) You can get samples at ALL the fudge shops on the Island. Makes your fantastic day spectacular!! 4) Glad you brought your own bikes, it’s way cheaper, even with the ferry cost. 5) Michigan roads are thee worst! That tar and stone, it’s how we do it. Not saying we agree with it. 6) You MUST watch what happens at the end of a season on Mackinac when Lake Huron and Michigan freeze over!! 7) NO, our bridge is NOT like the San Francisco bridge!! Lol!! We have beautiful, clear days when you cross the bridge. The water is crystal clear and the color of the Caribbean. No joke!! 8) Our mosquito’s will carry you away, there’s tons of them and we complain about everyone! 9) Our sunsets are compared to no other sunsets!! 10) The UP speed limit? What speed limit? 11) We reference where we live by the use of our hand!! Your left hand palm facing you, with your right pointer finger, point and say “we’re from Grand Haven, right here”. 12) NOT “paste-ee’s”, those go on your ….. it’s “past-ee’s”, we were waiting for that one!! 13) We drink pop, not soda. You bake with soda. 14) When you’re sick, you don’t get medicine, you get Vernor’s. It’s ginger ale, the only ginger ale! But, you just say “you want some Vernor’s?” Or “honey, pick up some Vernor’s please” 15) If your born and raised in MI, you’ll ALWAYS be a Michigander, and “I’m from, (insert raised left hand, ready to point to your town) ______!!” Safe travels!! 💕
If you live in the lower , "up North" begins at Clare. Upper Peninsula is the home of" Yoopers" and home of Pasties. All good tho'. Walked across the Big Mac on its 50th BD. Always love spending a day riding around the island on my bike ! Great vid !
wow this made me nostalgic. thank you for this. brings back a lot of fond memories. for me. my youngest is now 22. my middle child lives 100 miles away. it hasn't been 'cool' to trip with mom and dad for a decade now. we are Michiganders. so weve been to 'the island' multiple times but it is always fun watching 1st timers. fun fact. there is a speed limit on the island. you can not bike faster or you will get a speeding ticket. Hope you enjoyed it. couple years ago. my wife and I Kayaked to the island. had our bikes ferried over. stayed in the yellow b&b right next to the Mackinac wheels bike shop. I love Michigan. some day you'll have to do the water fall tour in the UP. btw. beautiful family. savor this time.
I visit the Island every year. I used to bike around the Island, a total of 8.2 miles. Then I started walking around the Island when biking became too difficult. Another thing that is never mentioned is that biking around the island requires a real effort as you are constantly riding into a headwind. Now I go there for a day and stay around the downtown area, then spend 6 or 7 days wandering around the U.P..
How can you constantly be riding into a headwind if you’re going round the island? Does the wind follow the island in a circular direction? If so, just cycle the other way…or you could just see this as a sign you’re not very fit.
This is great information! We also try to visit every year. We bring our own bikes, and every year, it gets harder to make the trip around 😅. Not to mention the hills in the center!!
I just found this video: Thanks for the laughter. It has been close to 40 years since I last went to The Island. Your video brought back so many great memories.
Brother, we absolutely noted in our Mackinaw Island video, its all you unless you are riding a horse. I loving laughed my butt off, simply because Maria wore me out walking all over that place. Loved the video, Mackinaw is one of our favorite places. We are headed back this summer/fall. Oh, and I set the tire pressure. No soft or hard here. Reason is less rolling resistance and easier to pedal.
Watching you, Lee in this video just makes me want to catch up with you guys some day and hang out with someone so relatable! haha! I could almost say all you said and the actions of that hot dog was so understanding with what???.... bacon??? cheese??? HEAVEN!!!! Only thing missing is some chopped up red onion. Another great video as we are rapidly becoming addicted to seeing what you all are up to next. We do have to run into each other one day..... I do believe we would drive both our wives respectfully insane hanging out! Be safe all!
I'm sure we would give the girls something to talk about, indeed. Good fun and great times! The RV Community isn't that big and there are plenty of opportunities to tag-up in the future. Food is absolutely one of our favorite aspects of RVing across the country. Pam is German and I am Southern. We definitely don't film enough food. It takes up so much time that we focus on traveling, mishaps, RVing, etc. We need to bring more food into each week. I mean, Bacon wrapped hot dogs with cheese sauce....c'mon! Safe travels and all the best from all of us here. Lee & Pam
So excited to finally sit down & watch this particular video, because we had a fabulous time there in September ‘21. More exciting was when you pulled into the exact campground we stayed at…then you blew our minds when you parked in the EXACT SAME CAMPSITE!!! Small world! P.S. We also ate lunch at Weinerlicious😉 Loved your video!
I am 66 and remember our class field trip to Mackinac Island. I still have the polished rock -- we all got one at this guy's wonderland of a rock shop! Thanks for posting!
I mountain bike all the time…Lee you had me rolling from laughter. “These bikes are not meant to come off”. Yes I carry a gauge but I like my tires squishy!
My family and I have been to Mackinac Island quite a few times over the years. We usually stay at the Straits State Park in St. Ignace (that's north of the bridge). There's just something about crossing that bridge that makes the trip worthwhile. Even towing our fifth wheel across it is an experience. This video must have been shot during last summer though, as the island is currently covered in snow. The island is a great place to visit due to its rich history and beautiful scenery. We ride around the entire island every time that we visit. The exhibitions at the fort are not to be missed. The fudge.... Well, you can't go to the island and not get some of the famous fudge. Glad that you enjoyed your visit. Next time go into the U.P. and visit Tahquamenon Falls, the Whitefish Point shipwreck museum and the Soo Locks in Sault Saint Marie. All of these are great places to visit.
Same here it’s not the same anymore the young generation is rude as heck especially with there young ones all hooked up in there so called tablets at least the old fashioned generation raised there kids better then this day and age
I rented a horse there one time and I never made it to the trail. Damn horse threw me head over heels! I also worked there for a summer and it is a fun place to stay overnight. Hope you get to enjoy it again! New sub!
Hi Judith! It’s hard to think about a horse now without imagining you flying off of it on Mackinac Island. LOL. (kidding) What a great story and painful memory. Thank you for sharing. Watching Lee wheeze himself up the hill was pretty funny too. Can’t wait to go back for more memories. Welcome to the channel and all the best from all of us here. Pam & Lee
Next time Mackinac go for 4th of July! We stayed 4 days at Island House including the 4th. It was the best 4th ever! We felt so connected to our fellow Americans while watching the fireworks. Hope to return this summer!
Loved the video. I was just there with my sisters just after Christmas 2022. The ferry was still running, as there was no ice yet. Yup, you gotta have some fudge when you go there. It would be a sin if you didn't. One local on the island warned me not to "step in the brown stuff", (horse exhaust). Oh yea, Wienerlicious in Mackinac City was a 'must do', in season of course. It was closed when my sisters and I were there. But I have eaten there.
I was born and raised in Alpha, Michigan, (U.P.) 213 Miles west of Mackinaw City. Only after I was married did I spend the day on the Island. As you know, you bike, walk or take a horse wagon ride wherever you go. My wife and I sat close to the horses. It was in the early 1980s, and the horses must have eaten beans because we were treated to music the entire ride. This is what I remember of Mackinaw Island!
We were there July of 2023 and found the Popcorn shop and a bunch of different flavors........we had a great trip up to Munising, MI to go out on the boat to view Pictured Rock National Seashore....... Good talking with you this past weekend at Jeepin with Judd 2024.......Happy Trails !
Thanks Jerry! Great meeting up with you this weekend. Lots of fun. We spent a lot of time in Ishpeming and Marquette, MI. Can’t wait to go back and get some more Mackinac fudge. This time we are riding horses. LOL.
I discovered your channel via this video, and in the month since, I have been watching all your videos. 🤗🥰 I love seeing your rich family adventures. Every video contains moments of levity, and I love your editing style. The map-zoom you do for your location is so cool. Thanks for the fun, high-quality videos where we follow your adventures! And....if you ever get a chance to stay overnight on Mackinac, it is 100% worth it. We stay for 5 days at a time. One year we were stranded there for 10 days, due to our transmission getting replaced over in St. Ignace. No better place to be stranded!
@@springfaith74 I didn’t realise you were using euphuisms, I generally assume people mean the literal meaning of the words they use unless they indicate otherwise. My bad
My husband and I are born and raised Michiganders. We've ridden our bikes around Mackinaw Island many many times. In 1993 we had our 10 month old daughter in a bike seat behind me and our 4 yr old son riding his little bike with training wheels. It took us a while and we had to take a lot of breaks but that tough little guy made it all the way around that island with only few tears shed! The 10 month old slept through it all. I dont know what we were thinking! Lol He's 34 yrs old now and fortunately doesn't remember that day lol And for the record you can over inflate a bike ride, I once blew a bike tire up because I put to much air into it lol
@kellyoliver1943 The wind was coming out of the north, we had the wind at our backs on the first side of the island and the head wind on the back stretch of the island.
Oh, you're killing me here with the ferry accommodations, etc. Both Star Line and Shepler's have FREE parking with transportation to/from the docks. If you have bikes, you can go to the dock to drop off your bikes and other passengers then go park and ride their tram back to the docks. Also, from Mill Creek, there is free transportation for one of the ferry's (I believe Star Line). My personal preference is Shepler's but both get the job done. Star Line offers a Cyber Monday discount every year so if you know you will be visiting the Island in the next season, then it is something to check into. Our preference for camping in Mackinaw is the State Park campground just outside Mackinaw City. There is a National Dark Park nearby that is great for viewing the Aurora Borealis AKA the Northern Lights (if you happen to go at a time that there are solar flares). Love Mackinac (we go every year as part of the Scouts Honor Guard program). Watching this in January in Michigan just makes me look forward to the summer even more!
Yes they do have free day parking. Sadly overnight parking is now three options with Sheppler's. Standard $20 per night, dock parking $40 per night, and premium in door $60. Ouch.
You found the best fudge on the island....Murdick's Fudge. I worked there for 5 summers. Mackinac Island is a real treasure. So much history and beauty. Your video was the best! ❤
Hi Kenneth! Great recommendation! Thank you! As we travel across the country, anytime we see a restaurant that has pies on display…we are walking in! We are definitely a pie family. 😀
I see on your map that you are missing Alaska. You should really try to make it up here. Not only is Alaska beautiful but the drive up here is amazing. If you do, I would plan at least a month.
You will find the proper tire pressure written on the side wall of each tire. You should have a high quality compressor for the truck and trailer anyway. Always check your tire pressure on all of the truck and trailer wheels prior to each time you move. Too low a tire pressure can cause the tire to over heat and blow out. A tire temperature pressure monitor (TTPM) is the easiest way to constantly monitor the tires as you drive. Over the years, I have had kids put glass bottles in front of my tires, giving me a flat on the way. Kids have also let out the air while I was shopping at a supermarket and I normally would not have known that, but the TTPM monitor was alarming when I got back to the truck. Some bystanders told me it was kids. I also hope your GPS is for RVs so you avoid routes not designed for large vehicles. Don
I worked on the island for the whole decade of the nineties and early 2000’s. If you’re not a regular biker the island will be tiring. I didn’t have any issues. Pulled heavy trailers behind my bike up and down the grand hill daily as part of my job. After work we’d put 10 to 20 miles on them for fun. Did have my share of crashes on the trails, nothing serious. Miss it greatly.
Absolutely essential to have a pressure guage that will help you not exceed the max (and risk popping a tube) but not be underinflated (and have to work harder peddling). I prefer a dial gauge. And get a 12v or reg portable air pump. Makes the work easy.
Wow that’s some totally unnecessary crap, been biking for 40 tears and I can tell 40 psi by pinching the sidewalls. And if you can’t pump up a type from flat in 3 minutes there’s something seriously wrong with you. The laziness and ineptitude of people these days amazes me.
@@harrygoodman6724 you must be seriously overweight and have some hefty tyres 😭 my ride would be super uncomfortable at that pressure, I’d feel every single bump and would get virtually no grip, what tyres are you running ? What weight are you? Are you running tubeless? Been mountain biking for 40 years, 40 psi is on the high side for most people unless you’re doing some technical downhills
I’ve worked there for 8 years now and I waited to see if I would pop up and @25:56 I go driving by on my carriage and also born and raised there my family has been there for generation my family’s been there since the fort was operational.
How amazing is that! Wow! It’s so much fun to cross paths and not even know it until much later. Future trips to Mackinac Island will be completely dedicated to Horses and exploring more of the island. Can’t wait! Best, Pam & Lee
I was born and raised in MI, and I was 45 the first time I went to Mackinac Island, and it was only for lunch. I didn't get the attraction. I now live in WI and can't wait for you to visit and see what you think of our state. There is more here than just the Packers! FYI - You call it summer we call it constriction season! Safe travels!
I have lived in southwest lower Michigan for 59 years and been on the Island 1 time and don't remember a thing about it because I was so small the bike my dad rented had a kids seat and i had to ride in it I think my mom said I was like 3 years old, and my dad said it was the worst ride he had ever been on because I would fall asleep and would lean on one side then the other and it was hard to stay up on two wheels but the views were great,as a side note the only time cars were on Mackinaw Island was when they made the movie Somewhere in Time with Jane Seymour and Cristopher Reevs as far as I know of. love the videos you guys are great.
This place place! I’ve been there several times. I will go back this year. Would love to live there. My horse can go with me. A dream come true for me! Rent the horseback rides. You will love it. Did you see the arch? Beautiful! Your bikes will kill you!!! But it’s downhill when you turn around. Hit the Pink Pony to eat. It’s on Main Street. Get outside seats. Magical memories for our families.
We visit and stay on the Island every August for the last 17 years. From experience if you’re going to get away from the downtown area or the relatively flat M185 road going around the island…..be in shape with your cardio. The interior of the island is outstanding with its countless foot trails, look out rock, fort Holmes, crack in the island etc… but getting to them will require going up hill! The most gradual incline is by the Grand Hotel with the steepest on the East side of town by the fort. Don’t miss the East Bluff Trail that leads to Arch Rock, picturesque with no better views of the straights!!!
Another great video! Speaking of bikes and racks, we totally agree with Lee! We just got our 2 nd rack to try out. This one is promising. It’s made in America and is called QuikRStuff. So far we are liking it! You don’t need tools to install and it’s rated for being on the back of our tow vehicle. I am not trying to be a commercial, sorry. We are on our first trip with it.
Having never stayed there before, we had no idea. However, now there is only one place to stay anytime we are in the area. We loved the spacious spots and wilderness atmosphere. So amazing to walk along the beach there in the park. Like you said, we Love it! 😀
What they really don't tell you is, when you're doing tree work on the island, when you're in a tree and horses see your rope moves they freak out AND the drays that haul your brush are ALWAYS late. Trimming and removing trees on the island is a PAIN!
That climb up to the Grand Hotel is ridiculous. I didn’t make it all the way and had to walk a bit. Oh and I agree once the bikes are secure on the rack they are a pain to do over again. Couple that with the fact that our RV 5th wheel approved bike rack didn’t last the summer, and in our 62 day trip we barely used the bikes, they aren’t coming with us again. I’ll rent bikes when necessary. My poor sons bike was brand new when we started and lit looked like it was 5 years old when we finished. He wasn’t happy with me. 😂
That's hilarious. So True! Just to let you know, our bikes have been on the back of the rig and crossed the country from coast to coast and border to border. Pam's bike pedal sawed through my bike and cut a supporting arm/tube for the back tire. we had to get a new bike. We also lose a reflector, pump, bell, LED light, handlebar tassel, or water bottle holder on EVERY trip. We even lost Pam's kickstand. LOL. There is no good solution for bikes on the rig. The secret is to not spend a bunch of money on a bike that you are going to carry around. Leave the good bikes at home or get a Toy Hauler. Great story and thanks for sharing. All the best to the family! Lee & Pam
Thanks Mike! It’s important to us that music is central to our story. I was on the drumline in High School and in the military. Pam’s Dad played in a band and she grew up on stage. That’s why music is in the beginning of every episode and throughout. In Season 1 we didn’t know how to keep the music balanced that well. Hopefully now it’s getting better. 😀
Yup its beautiful and historic. I've riden bicycle around it many times. Tipped brews downtown stayed at the Grand. It's nice. Nobody has mentioned the horse manure perfume downtown. Lmao.😅
When you guys go visit Illinois you have to see Springfield IL and all the Lincoln sites, you should go to Petersburg IL and see Lincoln’s New Salem. We recommend you stay at the double J campground in Chatham IL. We don’t recommend that you stay at the Koa in Springfield as it’s not that great and not really big rig friendly. Double J, costs a bit more but your close to Walmart and easy peasy to get into and out of and it’s secure!
Yes I check the air pressure in my bike tires with a gage not an avid bicycled either and look for something easy to store and remove the bikes I am just saying you guys do you and have fun glad you like Michigan
Trying to get to your camp site in the tourist areas is why I camp in the National Forest campgrounds or State Forest campgrounds in the U. P. No frills and less people.
We agree! 😀 We love the idea of camping more closely to nature, but with a rig over 40 feet we have tried several state parks that we had to back out of because we were too long.
I was with you on the ‘feel test’ until I popped an inner tube last summer. Didn’t pop right away so I thought I was good until I started to fill the other tire and wondered what the big pop behind me was. I guess I will use a gauge from now on.
I have an idea, y’all should make compilations for each season, like a movie, every vid a season in a movie. So so far there would be 3, and y’all are working on 4th rn, just wanted to put that out there
My moms family is from Saginaw Michigan and parts of detroit. I was born in Louisiana. Probably explains why everywhere i turn here people say you are not from here. You have a mixed or midwestern accent. 😆
I go to Mackinaw city about 5 times a year. I have never eaten at Weinerlisous. You should have tried the smoked whitefish. Good place to get that is just to the west side of the hiway bridge by Weinerlisous.
Hi Cathy, how awesome we were there at the same time. 😀 The video right after this shows us in Cheboygan, MI having a great time at the Big Boy restaurant. We had a blast visiting the area.
I had no idea. When I think of michigan, I think of auto factories, Detroit crime, etc. Thanks for showing us this wonderful place, and the advice about bike riding. We quit that activity long ago, after ours fell off onto the interstate in Georgia......I didn't have them strapped on very well, and they bounced and slid a long long way, but nobody ran over them, and amazingly they were still rideable, with only minor scratches. Later I found that the rear bumper of the travel trailer was about to fall off. It was cracked at the mounting point to the frame. A big crack. Welded it up with reinforcing angle iron, and it was fine. Later we traded up to a fiver with a slide out bicycle shelf which was much stouter. We quit riding, so it made a great place to put an aluminum diamond plate tool box which holds all the things that get dirty, like chocks, pads, hoses, and cables. It doesn't weigh that much. It's nice especially when it's rainy. Keeps wet stuff out of the basement.
It’s better for us Michiganders that people think of Michigan as “Detroit crime, and factories.” It’s the best kept secret, and keeps our beautiful state from becoming over populated. We’ve lived here all of our lives, and have never seriously considered leaving. The natural beauty is breathtaking, and something we couldn’t pull ourselves away from. The west side of the state, where we live, is peppered with small beach towns along the shore of Lake Michigan. Northern Michigan is beautiful as well as the Upper Peninsula. Really the only area I would stay away from is the greater Detroit area.
From Montana to Michigan, we have discovered a VERY common trend in our travel days. Sitting in the truck with the windows down and listening to birds tweeting on torn up roads. LOL. The best part is when you pull into the campsite and spend hours removing tar from the front compartment door.
Thanks Jim. The kids were captivated by a giant hotdog. 😀 Now we have two more reasons to go back and visit. We just added them to our list. Thanks again! Best, Lee
Although bent, the rack you have is still probably fine for quite a while longer. Your number of straps seems to be overkill. The island does have hills, but if you stay on the perimeter, it's actually relatively flat. You did good for pulling a trailer, I did that for a year or so, it's not easy.
Hi Conni! That’s awesome. We have those cheap plastic tire pressure pumps that attach to the bike. No gauges on those. In fact, they don’t last very long either. 😀 Definitely let us know if you have any recommendations. Safe travels. Best, Lee
@@discoveryboundrv Oh wow… Thank you for replying back. Anyway, unfortunately, I don’t have any recommendations for reliable portable hand pumps similar to what you were using in this video that have a pressure gauge built into them. I usually have a foot pump or a slightly bigger electric pump that plugs into the 12 V plug of a vehicle and they both have a pressure gauge built in to them. I’m sorry that I am of no help. Thank you again for replying back and thank you for taking the time to put this content out. Safe travels to you and your family.
Hi Tim! Thank you! We had a lot of fun. Great memories. When Pam and I started the channel we agreed not to hide the truth or suppress our mistakes. If we make them, then you get to see them. 😀 It’s easy to edit them out but says a lot more that we keep them in. All the best from all of us here. Lee & Pam.
The road project is called "chip and seal". Better than gravel, costs less than full dimensional pavement. Makes an excellent base to add regular pavement to in a few years...
Don’t know. I do think, the next time we are visiting the island we will rent the horses by themselves without the carriage ride. I think that would be fun.
It’s called Neon Affair by Notize. You can download it from Artlist. It’s actually one of our favorites. We have used it twice before and it won’t be long before we bring it back again. Best, Lee
Good video 😀 ok tell her the bikes 🏍 are unsevisable lol 😆 what year is your rig and how long is it put morryde independent suspension with disc brakes that will fix your axle problem 🫢 do you like your jayco fifth wheel I'm thinking of pinnacle fifth wheel trailer what do you think 🤔
Hi Tom, We actually headed to Oklahoma in September of 2022 and we had to divert to St. Louis because of Hail in Tulsa. We said NOPE! No Hail storms for us. LOL. Oklahoma is our last state to finish the lower 48 states. It's our big hole in the center of our map and we are making plans to have fun next season.
The one time I went to the island (1991), they rented me an old bike with 1962 fat tires and chain and gearing that seemed a bit corroded. With no lubricant. Couldn't get up the first hill. Walked it back to the rental office. No refund. Didn't spend a dime, took the first jet boat back to shore.
Hi Keith, That's actually a great story. Now everyone jets around on eBikes at 45 mph. The next time we go, we will be hitching up the horses and Giddy-Up-ing our way across that big island. :) Best, Lee
@@discoveryboundrv We go "almost" yearly. This year we went very non-traditional: December 3 for the CHRISTmas tree lighting. Only 2 (maybe 3) hotels open, only 2 (Mustang and forgot the other one) bar / restaurant open. It was cold. Very little to do but we really wanted to experience the place in winter. Did it now, won't again.
Born and raised in MI, visit the island every summer and it never gets old. It transforms in the evening after the last ferry leaves. One of my favorite places on earth.
If I ever travel to stay in USA again during my lifetime, this is the place!!
To Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel 😊
My parents and younger sister lived there year-round for 3 years. I worked there for 2 summers. Met my husband there my second year. We honeymooned there in 1977. Took our children there in 1991.
I'm 56 years old and still remember my 1st visit to Mackinac and Mackinac Island back in the 70s. One of my fondest memories is riding around the island on bikes. My dad was winded just like you were. Michgan native but i've lived in SC for 20 years, ready to retire and ready to return to Mackinac with our RV.
You won’t be taking your RV
That was truly the most sincere “Lord have mercy” I have ever heard! 😂❤️❤️😂 Love your family!
Thank you!❤️ I was so parched, you got to see a little bit of southern come out. It doesn’t happen very often. LOL. We don’t hide our mistakes or the truth. It’s the best part of RVing and the memories we carry with us. 😀 Best, Lee & Pam.
@@discoveryboundrv First time watching your channel. When you said, "Lord have mercy," I said, "He sounds southern." (Alabama here and love Mackinac Is; been twice and stayed at the Grand. Also, RVers, and would never have never thought about camping that far north, but the campground looked so nice. Maybe one day, we will take the travel trailer up there.... And, get a few more stickers for our USA map.
Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama! (War Eagle) 😀
@@discoveryboundrv War Eagle
Great videos! We love Mackinac Mill Creek!! A few Michigan terms. U P, not ‘up’, is when you want to reference the Upper Peninsula. A troll is one who lives below “the bridge”, hence, making us trolls. If you live in lower MI, and your heading north, you’re always going “up north”, but not the UP “up north.” That’s just simply the U P. We’re true Michiganders, but a few things we had to chuckle at, and of course, along with you. 😉1) Remember, south of the bridge is not the UP. Once you cross “the Bridge”, THEN you’re in the UP, 2) good luck finding a Walmart up there. Closest one was in Cheboygan, pro “shh-boy-gan” 3) You can get samples at ALL the fudge shops on the Island. Makes your fantastic day spectacular!! 4) Glad you brought your own bikes, it’s way cheaper, even with the ferry cost. 5) Michigan roads are thee worst! That tar and stone, it’s how we do it. Not saying we agree with it. 6) You MUST watch what happens at the end of a season on Mackinac when Lake Huron and Michigan freeze over!! 7) NO, our bridge is NOT like the San Francisco bridge!! Lol!! We have beautiful, clear days when you cross the bridge. The water is crystal clear and the color of the Caribbean. No joke!! 8) Our mosquito’s will carry you away, there’s tons of them and we complain about everyone! 9) Our sunsets are compared to no other sunsets!! 10) The UP speed limit? What speed limit? 11) We reference where we live by the use of our hand!! Your left hand palm facing you, with your right pointer finger, point and say “we’re from Grand Haven, right here”. 12) NOT
“paste-ee’s”, those go on your ….. it’s “past-ee’s”, we were waiting for that one!! 13) We drink pop, not soda. You bake with soda. 14) When you’re sick, you don’t get medicine, you get Vernor’s. It’s ginger ale, the only ginger ale! But, you just say “you want some Vernor’s?” Or “honey, pick up some Vernor’s please” 15) If your born and raised in MI, you’ll ALWAYS be a Michigander, and “I’m from, (insert raised left hand, ready to point to your town) ______!!” Safe travels!! 💕
The map with the states they pasted Michigan onto doesn't show the UP! ?
You got that right!
@@sallymiller7310 the little girl put the UP on the map
If you live in the lower , "up North" begins at Clare. Upper Peninsula is the home of" Yoopers" and home of Pasties. All good tho'. Walked across the Big Mac on its 50th BD. Always love spending a day riding around the island on my bike ! Great vid !
Mackinaw Island is part of the U.P., along with round island, and Bois Blanc Island but I know what you mean by crossing the bridge.
wow this made me nostalgic. thank you for this. brings back a lot of fond memories. for me. my youngest is now 22. my middle child lives 100 miles away. it hasn't been 'cool' to trip with mom and dad for a decade now. we are Michiganders. so weve been to 'the island' multiple times but it is always fun watching 1st timers. fun fact. there is a speed limit on the island. you can not bike faster or you will get a speeding ticket. Hope you enjoyed it. couple years ago. my wife and I Kayaked to the island. had our bikes ferried over. stayed in the yellow b&b right next to the Mackinac wheels bike shop. I love Michigan. some day you'll have to do the water fall tour in the UP. btw. beautiful family. savor this time.
I visit the Island every year. I used to bike around the Island, a total of 8.2 miles. Then I started walking around the Island when biking became too difficult. Another thing that is never mentioned is that biking around the island requires a real effort as you are constantly riding into a headwind. Now I go there for a day and stay around the downtown area, then spend 6 or 7 days wandering around the U.P..
How can you constantly be riding into a headwind if you’re going round the island? Does the wind follow the island in a circular direction? If so, just cycle the other way…or you could just see this as a sign you’re not very fit.
This is great information! We also try to visit every year. We bring our own bikes, and every year, it gets harder to make the trip around 😅. Not to mention the hills in the center!!
I just found this video: Thanks for the laughter. It has been close to 40 years since I last went to The Island. Your video brought back so many great memories.
Brother, we absolutely noted in our Mackinaw Island video, its all you unless you are riding a horse. I loving laughed my butt off, simply because Maria wore me out walking all over that place. Loved the video, Mackinaw is one of our favorite places. We are headed back this summer/fall. Oh, and I set the tire pressure. No soft or hard here. Reason is less rolling resistance and easier to pedal.
Watching you, Lee in this video just makes me want to catch up with you guys some day and hang out with someone so relatable! haha! I could almost say all you said and the actions of that hot dog was so understanding with what???.... bacon??? cheese??? HEAVEN!!!! Only thing missing is some chopped up red onion.
Another great video as we are rapidly becoming addicted to seeing what you all are up to next.
We do have to run into each other one day..... I do believe we would drive both our wives respectfully insane hanging out!
Be safe all!
I'm sure we would give the girls something to talk about, indeed. Good fun and great times! The RV Community isn't that big and there are plenty of opportunities to tag-up in the future. Food is absolutely one of our favorite aspects of RVing across the country. Pam is German and I am Southern. We definitely don't film enough food. It takes up so much time that we focus on traveling, mishaps, RVing, etc. We need to bring more food into each week. I mean, Bacon wrapped hot dogs with cheese sauce....c'mon! Safe travels and all the best from all of us here. Lee & Pam
So excited to finally sit down & watch this particular video, because we had a fabulous time there in September ‘21. More exciting was when you pulled into the exact campground we stayed at…then you blew our minds when you parked in the EXACT SAME CAMPSITE!!! Small world! P.S. We also ate lunch at Weinerlicious😉 Loved your video!
I'm a Mackinac Island addict. This one caught my eye. I like your fam. I'm now a subscriber! Thank you!
I am 66 and remember our class field trip to Mackinac Island. I still have the polished rock -- we all got one at this guy's wonderland of a rock shop!
Thanks for posting!
I got a polished rock when my sisters and I toured Petoskey.
I mountain bike all the time…Lee you had me rolling from laughter. “These bikes are not meant to come off”. Yes I carry a gauge but I like my tires squishy!
we went to Mackinac Island last August, we rode around the island on bikes, we're in our early 60's, yes we took many breaks lol, but so beautiful!
My family and I have been to Mackinac Island quite a few times over the years. We usually stay at the Straits State Park in St. Ignace (that's north of the bridge). There's just something about crossing that bridge that makes the trip worthwhile. Even towing our fifth wheel across it is an experience. This video must have been shot during last summer though, as the island is currently covered in snow. The island is a great place to visit due to its rich history and beautiful scenery. We ride around the entire island every time that we visit. The exhibitions at the fort are not to be missed. The fudge.... Well, you can't go to the island and not get some of the famous fudge. Glad that you enjoyed your visit. Next time go into the U.P. and visit Tahquamenon Falls, the Whitefish Point shipwreck museum and the Soo Locks in Sault Saint Marie. All of these are great places to visit.
Same here it’s not the same anymore the young generation is rude as heck especially with there young ones all hooked up in there so called tablets at least the old fashioned generation raised there kids better then this day and age
I found everything expensive
G'day guys, loved the video. It's added to our list. Safe travels
Hi Brendan! G’day to you as well. 😀 Thank you so much and we are excited. Best, Pam & Lee
I think your kids will treasure this time with you guys forever 👋👋👋💯💯💯💕💕💕😎😎😎
I rented a horse there one time and I never made it to the trail. Damn horse threw me head over heels! I also worked there for a summer and it is a fun place to stay overnight. Hope you get to enjoy it again! New sub!
Hi Judith! It’s hard to think about a horse now without imagining you flying off of it on Mackinac Island. LOL. (kidding) What a great story and painful memory. Thank you for sharing. Watching Lee wheeze himself up the hill was pretty funny too. Can’t wait to go back for more memories. Welcome to the channel and all the best from all of us here. Pam & Lee
Next time Mackinac go for 4th of July! We stayed 4 days at Island House including the 4th. It was the best 4th ever! We felt so connected to our fellow Americans while watching the fireworks. Hope to return this summer!
Loved the video. I was just there with my sisters just after Christmas 2022. The ferry was still running, as there was no ice yet. Yup, you gotta have some fudge when you go there. It would be a sin if you didn't. One local on the island warned me not to "step in the brown stuff", (horse exhaust). Oh yea, Wienerlicious in Mackinac City was a 'must do', in season of course. It was closed when my sisters and I were there. But I have eaten there.
I was born and raised in Alpha, Michigan, (U.P.) 213 Miles west of Mackinaw City. Only after I was married did I spend the day on the Island. As you know, you bike, walk or take a horse wagon ride wherever you go. My wife and I sat close to the horses. It was in the early 1980s, and the horses must have eaten beans because we were treated to music the entire ride. This is what I remember of Mackinaw Island!
Hi George! That must have been a very “windy” day! LOL 😀. Seriously, that’s the best story (and memory) ever. Love it.
Really enjoyed this. I haven't been to Mackinac Island since 1988 or the U.P. since '89. Butterfinger Blizzard's my favorite.
mackinac island is in the U.P.
We were there July of 2023 and found the Popcorn shop and a bunch of different flavors........we had a great trip up to Munising, MI to go out on the boat to view Pictured Rock National Seashore....... Good talking with you this past weekend at Jeepin with Judd 2024.......Happy Trails !
Thanks Jerry! Great meeting up with you this weekend. Lots of fun. We spent a lot of time in Ishpeming and Marquette, MI. Can’t wait to go back and get some more Mackinac fudge. This time we are riding horses. LOL.
Stumbled across this unique video, refreshing, love it and your family! Keeping it real.
Thanks for sharing your adventure!
I discovered your channel via this video, and in the month since, I have been watching all your videos. 🤗🥰 I love seeing your rich family adventures. Every video contains moments of levity, and I love your editing style. The map-zoom you do for your location is so cool. Thanks for the fun, high-quality videos where we follow your adventures!
And....if you ever get a chance to stay overnight on Mackinac, it is 100% worth it. We stay for 5 days at a time. One year we were stranded there for 10 days, due to our transmission getting replaced over in St. Ignace. No better place to be stranded!
They’re rich?
@@StoutProper surely you've lived long enough to know that "rich" can have nothing to do with money.
@@springfaith74 I didn’t realise you were using euphuisms, I generally assume people mean the literal meaning of the words they use unless they indicate otherwise. My bad
Do go back and stay in a B&B. Nighttime on Mackinac is magical. Explore the interior of the island.
My husband and I are born and raised Michiganders. We've ridden our bikes around Mackinaw Island many many times. In 1993 we had our 10 month old daughter in a bike seat behind me and our 4 yr old son riding his little bike with training wheels. It took us a while and we had to take a lot of breaks but that tough little guy made it all the way around that island with only few tears shed! The 10 month old slept through it all. I dont know what we were thinking! Lol He's 34 yrs old now and fortunately doesn't remember that day lol And for the record you can over inflate a bike ride, I once blew a bike tire up because I put to much air into it lol
Funny story, years ago we took our granddaughter around the island with a tag-along type one wheel bike. It was awesome!!
@kellyoliver1943 The wind was coming out of the north, we had the wind at our backs on the first side of the island and the head wind on the back stretch of the island.
Great video really enjoyed it. Mackinaw Mill Creek Campground is an awsome campground and yes I have to agree the hills on the island can kill you.
You guys are awesome funny. Thanks for sharing your video for showing me Mackinac Island. I am an avid cyclist and enjoyed your bike stuff. ;)
Oh, you're killing me here with the ferry accommodations, etc. Both Star Line and Shepler's have FREE parking with transportation to/from the docks. If you have bikes, you can go to the dock to drop off your bikes and other passengers then go park and ride their tram back to the docks. Also, from Mill Creek, there is free transportation for one of the ferry's (I believe Star Line). My personal preference is Shepler's but both get the job done. Star Line offers a Cyber Monday discount every year so if you know you will be visiting the Island in the next season, then it is something to check into.
Our preference for camping in Mackinaw is the State Park campground just outside Mackinaw City. There is a National Dark Park nearby that is great for viewing the Aurora Borealis AKA the Northern Lights (if you happen to go at a time that there are solar flares). Love Mackinac (we go every year as part of the Scouts Honor Guard program). Watching this in January in Michigan just makes me look forward to the summer even more!
Yes they do have free day parking. Sadly overnight parking is now three options with Sheppler's. Standard $20 per night, dock parking $40 per night, and premium in door $60. Ouch.
You found the best fudge on the island....Murdick's Fudge. I worked there for 5 summers. Mackinac Island is a real treasure. So much history and beauty. Your video was the best! ❤
Hysterically funny you guys! Love the humor!
Great video, congrats on 3 years on the road!🎉
I also Highly recommend Darrow's just west of the highway
Hi Kenneth! Great recommendation! Thank you! As we travel across the country, anytime we see a restaurant that has pies on display…we are walking in! We are definitely a pie family. 😀
We go to Mill Creek campground every year for a week. Very clean and comfortable. Nice view too!
you have a wonderful family enjoy your vacation.
Thank you Jason!
I see on your map that you are missing Alaska. You should really try to make it up here. Not only is Alaska beautiful but the drive up here is amazing. If you do, I would plan at least a month.
You will find the proper tire pressure written on the side wall of each tire. You should have a high quality compressor for the truck and trailer anyway. Always check your tire pressure on all of the truck and trailer wheels prior to each time you move. Too low a tire pressure can cause the tire to over heat and blow out. A tire temperature pressure monitor (TTPM) is the easiest way to constantly monitor the tires as you drive. Over the years, I have had kids put glass bottles in front of my tires, giving me a flat on the way. Kids have also let out the air while I was shopping at a supermarket and I normally would not have known that, but the TTPM monitor was alarming when I got back to the truck. Some bystanders told me it was kids. I also hope your GPS is for RVs so you avoid routes not designed for large vehicles.
Don
I worked on the island for the whole decade of the nineties and early 2000’s. If you’re not a regular biker the island will be tiring. I didn’t have any issues. Pulled heavy trailers behind my bike up and down the grand hill daily as part of my job. After work we’d put 10 to 20 miles on them for fun. Did have my share of crashes on the trails, nothing serious. Miss it greatly.
We stayed at that campground last year and it was a beautiful place to stay. Would recommend 💯
We agree!
@@discoveryboundrv have yoy guys been tourch lake in Michigan? We are headed there this year. I hear it is a beautiful place. Crystal clear water.
Great video, beautiful family
Thank you! Best, Pam & Lee
Absolutely essential to have a pressure guage that will help you not exceed the max (and risk popping a tube) but not be underinflated (and have to work harder peddling). I prefer a dial gauge. And get a 12v or reg portable air pump. Makes the work easy.
Wow that’s some totally unnecessary crap, been biking for 40 tears and I can tell 40 psi by pinching the sidewalls. And if you can’t pump up a type from flat in 3 minutes there’s something seriously wrong with you. The laziness and ineptitude of people these days amazes me.
@@StoutProper My tires take 70 psi and my wife’s take 75 psi. Your reply is B.S.
@@harrygoodman6724 you must be seriously overweight and have some hefty tyres 😭 my ride would be super uncomfortable at that pressure, I’d feel every single bump and would get virtually no grip, what tyres are you running ? What weight are you? Are you running tubeless? Been mountain biking for 40 years, 40 psi is on the high side for most people unless you’re doing some technical downhills
@harrygoodman6724 the tires on our 2 bikes are in the 70's as well. And Max PSI is listed on the tire.
I’ve worked there for 8 years now and I waited to see if I would pop up and @25:56 I go driving by on my carriage and also born and raised there my family has been there for generation my family’s been there since the fort was operational.
How amazing is that! Wow! It’s so much fun to cross paths and not even know it until much later. Future trips to Mackinac Island will be completely dedicated to Horses and exploring more of the island. Can’t wait! Best, Pam & Lee
I was born and raised in MI, and I was 45 the first time I went to Mackinac Island, and it was only for lunch. I didn't get the attraction. I now live in WI and can't wait for you to visit and see what you think of our state. There is more here than just the Packers! FYI - You call it summer we call it constriction season! Safe travels!
I guess beautiful scenery, blue water and historical buildings aren't your thing.
@@alisonflaxman1566 my Dad just wasn’t into it and neither was the husband. Maybe it will be different if I went now.
I have lived in southwest lower Michigan for 59 years and been on the Island 1 time and don't remember a thing about it because I was so small the bike my dad rented had a kids seat and i had to ride in it I think my mom said I was like 3 years old, and my dad said it was the worst ride he had ever been on because I would fall asleep and would lean on one side then the other and it was hard to stay up on two wheels but the views were great,as a side note the only time cars were on Mackinaw Island was when they made the movie Somewhere in Time with Jane Seymour and Cristopher Reevs as far as I know of. love the videos you guys are great.
This place place! I’ve been there several times. I will go back this year. Would love to live there. My horse can go with me. A dream come true for me! Rent the horseback rides. You will love it. Did you see the arch? Beautiful! Your bikes will kill you!!! But it’s downhill when you turn around. Hit the Pink Pony to eat. It’s on Main Street. Get outside seats. Magical memories for our families.
We visit and stay on the Island every August for the last 17 years. From experience if you’re going to get away from the downtown area or the relatively flat M185 road going around the island…..be in shape with your cardio. The interior of the island is outstanding with its countless foot trails, look out rock, fort Holmes, crack in the island etc… but getting to them will require going up hill! The most gradual incline is by the Grand Hotel with the steepest on the East side of town by the fort. Don’t miss the East Bluff Trail that leads to Arch Rock, picturesque with no better views of the straights!!!
Another great video! Speaking of bikes and racks, we totally agree with Lee! We just got our 2 nd rack to try out. This one is promising. It’s made in America and is called QuikRStuff. So far we are liking it! You don’t need tools to install and it’s rated for being on the back of our tow vehicle. I am not trying to be a commercial, sorry. We are on our first trip with it.
I love, love, love Mill Creek Campground and Cabins!!!!
Having never stayed there before, we had no idea. However, now there is only one place to stay anytime we are in the area. We loved the spacious spots and wilderness atmosphere. So amazing to walk along the beach there in the park. Like you said, we Love it! 😀
This is on my bucket list ❤️❤️❤️
What they really don't tell you is, when you're doing tree work on the island, when you're in a tree and horses see your rope moves they freak out AND the drays that haul your brush are ALWAYS late. Trimming and removing trees on the island is a PAIN!
22:42 Apparently ebikes being outlawed (except class 1 for certain people) isn't being enforced.
That climb up to the Grand Hotel is ridiculous. I didn’t make it all the way and had to walk a bit. Oh and I agree once the bikes are secure on the rack they are a pain to do over again. Couple that with the fact that our RV 5th wheel approved bike rack didn’t last the summer, and in our 62 day trip we barely used the bikes, they aren’t coming with us again. I’ll rent bikes when necessary. My poor sons bike was brand new when we started and lit looked like it was 5 years old when we finished. He wasn’t happy with me. 😂
That's hilarious. So True! Just to let you know, our bikes have been on the back of the rig and crossed the country from coast to coast and border to border. Pam's bike pedal sawed through my bike and cut a supporting arm/tube for the back tire. we had to get a new bike. We also lose a reflector, pump, bell, LED light, handlebar tassel, or water bottle holder on EVERY trip. We even lost Pam's kickstand. LOL. There is no good solution for bikes on the rig. The secret is to not spend a bunch of money on a bike that you are going to carry around. Leave the good bikes at home or get a Toy Hauler. Great story and thanks for sharing. All the best to the family! Lee & Pam
I ride weekly if not daily. When I go away with my bike I ride daily, usually between 40-80 miles cross country.
I promise I am not laughing at anyone, but this thread has me cracking up over the bike comments!!! 😂
I took my children to Mackinaw Island. My youngest was 18 mo old and riding a horse there. Shucks we all did...my 3 sons and I. Really fun.
You should have went into that church, then there's another one on the main drag so beautiful.
You have the best music --great job
Thanks Mike! It’s important to us that music is central to our story. I was on the drumline in High School and in the military. Pam’s Dad played in a band and she grew up on stage. That’s why music is in the beginning of every episode and throughout. In Season 1 we didn’t know how to keep the music balanced that well. Hopefully now it’s getting better. 😀
Yup its beautiful and historic. I've riden bicycle around it many times. Tipped brews downtown stayed at the Grand. It's nice. Nobody has mentioned the horse manure perfume downtown. Lmao.😅
When you guys go visit Illinois you have to see Springfield IL and all the Lincoln sites, you should go to Petersburg IL and see Lincoln’s New Salem. We recommend you stay at the double J campground in Chatham IL. We don’t recommend that you stay at the Koa in Springfield as it’s not that great and not really big rig friendly. Double J, costs a bit more but your close to Walmart and easy peasy to get into and out of and it’s secure!
Yes I check the air pressure in my bike tires with a gage not an avid bicycled either and look for something easy to store and remove the bikes I am just saying you guys do you and have fun glad you like Michigan
We loved to stay in Wilderness State park. The island.and the fort in Machines City has rich rich history.Worth seeing and kearning.
How can you miss 😂Weinerliscious? You can see it from the expressway…….You can’t miss it.😊
Trying to get to your camp site in the tourist areas is why I camp in the National Forest campgrounds or State Forest campgrounds in the U. P. No frills and less people.
We agree! 😀 We love the idea of camping more closely to nature, but with a rig over 40 feet we have tried several state parks that we had to back out of because we were too long.
O my gosh you guys are so funny ❤
I was with you on the ‘feel test’ until I popped an inner tube last summer. Didn’t pop right away so I thought I was good until I started to fill the other tire and wondered what the big pop behind me was. I guess I will use a gauge from now on.
I have an idea, y’all should make compilations for each season, like a movie, every vid a season in a movie. So so far there would be 3, and y’all are working on 4th rn, just wanted to put that out there
LOL. We are lucky to get the videos we currently have out each Sunday. Compilations are a great idea and fun. We will see what we can do.
@@discoveryboundrv Glad to here👍
My moms family is from Saginaw Michigan and parts of detroit. I was born in Louisiana. Probably explains why everywhere i turn here people say you are not from here. You have a mixed or midwestern accent. 😆
Gotta go next door to El Zarape. Much better. Also Lume will help after the bike ride. 😉
Love your video
Thank you Kellie! 😀
Great video. Thanks
I go to Mackinaw city about 5 times a year. I have never eaten at Weinerlisous. You should have tried the smoked whitefish. Good place to get that is just to the west side of the hiway bridge by Weinerlisous.
You guys forgot 1 thing, you didn’t get ice cream on the island?. The best!
Thanks Steve! Now we have our agenda for next time. Horses first, then Ice Cream. LOL.
Gotta laugh, you stopped on the small hill.... The big one was yet to come. Lol
I was up there in June of 2022. I have family that lives in Cheboygan.
Hi Cathy, how awesome we were there at the same time. 😀 The video right after this shows us in Cheboygan, MI having a great time at the Big Boy restaurant. We had a blast visiting the area.
My sisters and I stayed at the hotel beside Big Boy
But it IS Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island. They aren’t pronounced the same.
In montana the seasons are winter, winter, winter and construction… we are covered in snow nine months out of the year
Just found you guys what camp ground are you at. Love the big hot dog.
Hi Joyce, we stayed at Mill Creek Campground. It was a wonderful park and the whole family had a blast. 😀
I use my Viair which has a PSI gage on it. I don't fill to max PSI on the tire, I feel that is a bit too much, about 10 under.
I had no idea. When I think of michigan, I think of auto factories, Detroit crime, etc. Thanks for showing us this wonderful place, and the advice about bike riding. We quit that activity long ago, after ours fell off onto the interstate in Georgia......I didn't have them strapped on very well, and they bounced and slid a long long way, but nobody ran over them, and amazingly they were still rideable, with only minor scratches. Later I found that the rear bumper of the travel trailer was about to fall off. It was cracked at the mounting point to the frame. A big crack. Welded it up with reinforcing angle iron, and it was fine. Later we traded up to a fiver with a slide out bicycle shelf which was much stouter. We quit riding, so it made a great place to put an aluminum diamond plate tool box which holds all the things that get dirty, like chocks, pads, hoses, and cables. It doesn't weigh that much. It's nice especially when it's rainy. Keeps wet stuff out of the basement.
It’s better for us Michiganders that people think of Michigan as “Detroit crime, and factories.” It’s the best kept secret, and keeps our beautiful state from becoming over populated. We’ve lived here all of our lives, and have never seriously considered leaving. The natural beauty is breathtaking, and something we couldn’t pull ourselves away from. The west side of the state, where we live, is peppered with small beach towns along the shore of Lake Michigan. Northern Michigan is beautiful as well as the Upper Peninsula. Really the only area I would stay away from is the greater Detroit area.
We have 2 seasons in Michigan Winter and Road construction.
From Montana to Michigan, we have discovered a VERY common trend in our travel days. Sitting in the truck with the windows down and listening to birds tweeting on torn up roads. LOL. The best part is when you pull into the campsite and spend hours removing tar from the front compartment door.
I can't believe you guys didn't go to the Mackinaw Pasty Co or Skalawags Fish & Chips in Mackinaw City. Those are must stops for every visit.
Thanks Jim. The kids were captivated by a giant hotdog. 😀 Now we have two more reasons to go back and visit. We just added them to our list. Thanks again! Best, Lee
Although bent, the rack you have is still probably fine for quite a while longer. Your number of straps seems to be overkill. The island does have hills, but if you stay on the perimeter, it's actually relatively flat. You did good for pulling a trailer, I did that for a year or so, it's not easy.
Shefflers. I have lived in Michigan 67 years. Crossed Mack 50+ times. Never been to Mackinaw Island. No desire. Looks like you had fun.
The tire pumps that I use usually have a pressure gauge built into them. I figured since it’s there I might as well put the recommended pressure.
Hi Conni! That’s awesome. We have those cheap plastic tire pressure pumps that attach to the bike. No gauges on those. In fact, they don’t last very long either. 😀 Definitely let us know if you have any recommendations. Safe travels. Best, Lee
@@discoveryboundrv Oh wow… Thank you for replying back. Anyway, unfortunately, I don’t have any recommendations for reliable portable hand pumps similar to what you were using in this video that have a pressure gauge built into them. I usually have a foot pump or a slightly bigger electric pump that plugs into the 12 V plug of a vehicle and they both have a pressure gauge built in to them. I’m sorry that I am of no help. Thank you again for replying back and thank you for taking the time to put this content out. Safe travels to you and your family.
The island is part of Northern Lower Michigan, my wife and I, both are from about 75 miles from the island.
The 40 fudge shops on Main Street 😂
Nice video. Love the bike ride. I would have cut out that you put the handle bars on backwards or upside down. Just saying.
Hi Tim! Thank you! We had a lot of fun. Great memories. When Pam and I started the channel we agreed not to hide the truth or suppress our mistakes. If we make them, then you get to see them. 😀 It’s easy to edit them out but says a lot more that we keep them in. All the best from all of us here. Lee & Pam.
The road project is called "chip and seal". Better than gravel, costs less than full dimensional pavement. Makes an excellent base to add regular pavement to in a few years...
Do the horses look healthy and well taken care of? the ones at 29:52 look like they are struggling, they look like the weight is too much for them
Don’t know. I do think, the next time we are visiting the island we will rent the horses by themselves without the carriage ride. I think that would be fun.
Great video
Totally love their ruban dog.
Now we have to go back. That sounds amazing. 😀
Yes, there is a pressure amount on the side of the tires, and yes, I check it -.
Anyone know the name of the music which started at 16:58?
Check his description page, it might be on there
It’s called Neon Affair by Notize. You can download it from Artlist. It’s actually one of our favorites. We have used it twice before and it won’t be long before we bring it back again. Best, Lee
Ill definitely bring my ebike with me when i visit.
Hills are hills and I'm 60
We call the hill by the fort the "hill of death". Life goal is to get to the base of the fort without stopping.
Love it. 😀 We all rode our brakes down the hill the whole way. LOL
Good video 😀 ok tell her the bikes 🏍 are unsevisable lol 😆 what year is your rig and how long is it put morryde independent suspension with disc brakes that will fix your axle problem 🫢 do you like your jayco fifth wheel I'm thinking of pinnacle fifth wheel trailer what do you think 🤔
Y’all should probably get e-bikes, they’re electric bikes and they’re amazing to have.
Love the video's When are you going to Oklahoma?
Hi Tom, We actually headed to Oklahoma in September of 2022 and we had to divert to St. Louis because of Hail in Tulsa. We said NOPE! No Hail storms for us. LOL. Oklahoma is our last state to finish the lower 48 states. It's our big hole in the center of our map and we are making plans to have fun next season.
The one time I went to the island (1991), they rented me an old bike with 1962 fat tires and chain and gearing that seemed a bit corroded. With no lubricant. Couldn't get up the first hill. Walked it back to the rental office. No refund. Didn't spend a dime, took the first jet boat back to shore.
Hi Keith, That's actually a great story. Now everyone jets around on eBikes at 45 mph. The next time we go, we will be hitching up the horses and Giddy-Up-ing our way across that big island. :) Best, Lee
When did you go? It looks "empty" vs, say - summer ! (ALL summer)
We went on early June. It was a great time to go. Cool but not cold. Well, except on the boat ride. 😀
@@discoveryboundrv We go "almost" yearly. This year we went very non-traditional: December 3 for the CHRISTmas tree lighting. Only 2 (maybe 3) hotels open, only 2 (Mustang and forgot the other one) bar / restaurant open. It was cold. Very little to do but we really wanted to experience the place in winter. Did it now, won't again.