From an Underground River to a Sacred Rock: 4 Northern Michigan Hidden Gems
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The underground river poured out of the rocks. Its origin seemed invisible as it flowed into the Little Ocqueoc River. I hiked across the road, noticing that the river vanished beneath the earth, reappearing on the other side.
I continued following it through a rocky terrain and past small waterfalls, reminiscent of the Upper Peninsula. Sunlight filtered through yellow leaves, and dusk settled across the landscape. It felt as if I’d stepped into a storybook, and I wouldn’t have been surprised to see an elf traipsing behind me.
An Underground River | Rogers City
Presque Isle County’s underground river, about 12 miles west of Rogers City, off M-68 and N. Silver Creek Rd., was once completely underground, but the limestone-enclosed tunnel collapsed, exposing sections of the river. Today, it enchants visitors with its mysterious water and idyllic setting from boulders and wildflowers to sinkholes and caves.
Combine a visit to the river with the nearby Ocqueoc Falls, the Lower Peninsula’s largest waterfall, and you have the perfect outing for exploring one of Michigan’s hidden gems. There are many of these secret places across Michigan, offering moments of wonder and solitude. The following will get you started on the path to discovery and hopefully inspire you to find your own magical retreats.
Sacred Rock | Rogers City
After viewing the underground river, continue into Rogers City and head 5 miles north to Hoeft State Park. Leave your car here and walk north for about a mile along the sandy Lake Huron shoreline and past charming beach homes until you reach Sacred Rock, which is impossible to miss.
About 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4 feet tall, the Rock, according to legend, marked the hunting and fishing border between two Native American tribes. It’s also said that the rock bleeds on rainy days, reflecting its use as a sacrificial altar and a weapon by the gods to crush rival chiefs.
Lower Peninsula’s Highest Point | Sherman Township
Located in Osceola County, Grove Hill climbs to 1,722 feet above sea level, making it the Lower Peninsula’s highest point. The site, about 9 miles south of Cadillac, is a Sherman Township Park with picnic benches, tall pines, and hardwoods.
Originally settled in the 1870s, only four stones now indicate where the original homestead stood, and there is scant evidence of the old tower that once guarded against fires. However, don’t expect breathtaking views; the reward for this hidden gem is simply bagging a high point.
Nature Megaphone | Afton
Located in the Boyd B Banwell Nature Preserve, about 5 miles east of Indian River on M68, the Megaphone, according to the Preserve’s website, “is a wooden acoustical magnification device that you can climb into and listen to amplified bird song and other nature sounds.” All ages will enjoy the experience of clambering inside, lying still, and allowing the sounds of the forest flow around them.
The Preserve also hosts about 5 miles of trail, and its neighbor, Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve is home to 1.4 miles on the Pigeon River. A wooden bridge crosses over the rushing water to a cabin perched next to the river. It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by soaring trees and the music of wind mixing with gurgling water.
Explore More Hidden Gems
Northern Michigan’s three land conservancies, Little Traverse Conservancy, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, and HeadWaters Land Conservancy are rich with possibilities for uncovering more hidden gems. From trails to fishing sites to educational programs, these conservancies offer almost a lifetime of outdoor itineraries, where part of the fun is uncovering Michigan’s natural jewels.