Defining “Up North”: Where Does It Truly Begin?
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In the beautiful state of Michigan, there’s a light-hearted debate that emerges as soon as late spring flowers bloom: Where exactly does “up north” begin?
For many Michiganders, the phrase “up north” brings to mind images of towering pine trees, hardwood forests with ORV trails snaking through the woods, crystal-clear lakes, and quaint little towns with their own variety of coffee cafes, ice cream parlors, and fudge shops.
But the question remains: where does this magical land of “up north” actually begin? Is it a specific geographic point?
Some would argue that it starts as soon as you cross the Mackinac Bridge, leaving the Lower Peninsula behind and entering the rugged beauty of the Upper Peninsula.
After all, the UP is home to some of the most iconic “up north” destinations, including Tahquamenon Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Lake of the Clouds, Drummond Island, and the sprawling wilderness of the Hiawatha National Forest.
Related: Awesome Mitten’s Guide to the BEST Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula
Others, however, would argue that “up north” begins much farther south, perhaps around the halfway point between Coldwater and Mackinaw City.
This could put you in Silver Lake, White Cloud, Bay City, Caseville, or Harbor Beach.
Places where summer days are spent soaking up the sun on the shores of Lake Michigan or Lake Huron or boating on Hardy and Croton Dam Pond.
Still, others might argue that “up north” isn’t so much a specific location as it is a state of mind/state of heart.
It’s about leaving behind the stresses of everyday life and immersing yourself in the simple pleasures of nature, whether that means camping under the stars, fishing on a secluded lake, or simply enjoying a campfire with friends and family.
I wondered if there was a term for this state of heart. Of course there is. In fact I submit three:
- Northness: the quality or state of being north
- Northing: moving in a northerly direction
- Northern-ness: a fascination and sense of longing for the northern lands
Regardless of where it is, it is a place that you long for until you return, where you feel in your soul as you get close to your end destination.
Ultimately, where “up north” begins is a matter of personal interpretation. Perhaps the true beauty of “up north” lies in the memories we create and the connections we make with the people we love.
So here’s to St Joseph in SE MI, Whitefish Point in the UP, and all points in between. Know that you are someone’s “Up North.”
Enjoy the summer to its fullest no matter where you cast your line, launch your canoe, pitch your tent, or park your camper.
About the Author:
Larry Johns is a transplant to Michigan. He’s lived in Alpena for the past 5 years and lived in Saline for 3 years prior. He fancies himself a modern cultural anthropologist/sociologist, paying attention to how people groups function around him. He loves all things Michigan and loves watching its cultures and traditions.
Lucky for us the DNR drew the line years ago. Up north is every above the blue rifle line.