July 15, 2022
Raber, MI
I once again wake up hundreds of miles from home, having left last night to embark on my final Michigan parks adventure. One last chance to watch the sunrise over the Mighty Mac. One last chance to get a peanut butter long john from the Mackinaw Bakery. One last drive over the bridge. One last romp in the UP.
I’m preparing for dissapointment as I make my way to my first of three parks this trip. Lime Island is only accessable by boat. And since it’s located in the middle of an active shipping channel, they recommend against using a self-propelled watercraft. Despite it being only two miles across, and me being certain that I could make it by kayak, I heed their advice. Despite all my attempts, I was unable to charter a ride ahead of time. But still, I make my way to the docks in hopes that I will find someone else heading that way that I can hitch a ride with.
I have no such luck. I sit on the dock and eat my donut, killing time and hoping that someone shows up. After 30 minutes, I grow antsy and impatient, and hop back in my car to explore the city of Raber. It’s a tiny little community of just a few streets. I drive them all, holding out hope that I’ll see someone preparing their boat for a voyage. I pass only one car. The guy looks me over, suspicious of the outsider snooping around at 8 in the morning, before he continues on his way. Maybe I should have waited until the weekend to attempt this.
And so, I didn’t technically step foot on the island. Just gazed longingly across the way. But the park description mentions 6.5 acres on the mainland in Raber are also included in it’s footprint, so I did at least drive through…I’m counting it as complete with an asterisk. And should I find myself able, I will oneday make it to the island.
Check out my other Michigan State Park adventures!
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