Sleeping Bear Dunes, from the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Traverse City. Empire. Pure Michigan.
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How a Weekend Getaway Became My Favorite Form of Therapy

A quick note: While weekend getaways and time in nature can be deeply restorative, they are not a replacement for professional mental health support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with symptoms that persist, it’s always okay to talk to a licensed therapist or counselor. This article is based on personal experience and is…

Ludington State Park
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Weekend Wellness Getaways in Michigan

Nature, Silence, and the Simplicity of Being Outdoors Sometimes what we need isn’t a grand escape or packed itinerary. It’s a quiet trail. A forest with room to think. A weekend that feels like a deep breath. This guide isn’t about bucket lists or Instagram hot spots. It’s about places in Michigan where you can…

Beautiful chapel at Hartwick Pines State Park with the Michigan Travelist.
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5 Daily Habits That Feel Better in Nature and the Best Places in Michigan to Practice Them

Table of Contents 1. Why Nature Supercharges Simple Habits Indoor routines are fine, until they aren’t. Four walls, fluorescent light, background noise from laptops and phones; eventually it all blends into one distracted blur. Take those daily habits outside and you get: Michigan is tailor-made for this approach. We’ve got sprawling state parks close to…

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area is a beautiful and complex park along Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline, in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. Pure Michigan Travelist
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Digital Detox Destinations in Michigan: Reconnect with Nature, Reconnect with Yourself

If your brain feels like it has 37 tabs open all the time—you’re not alone. Between non-stop notifications, work stress, and screen fatigue, most of us are long overdue for a real break. The kind of break where you lose signal… and find yourself. Michigan is full of quiet, beautiful places where you can put…

Presque Isle Park with Michigan TRavelist
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Best Hiking Trails in Michigan for Beginners (and Their Mental Health Perks)

Whether you’re just getting into hiking or simply need a peaceful place to reset, Michigan is home to some of the most accessible and soul-soothing trails in the country. From forest paths to lakeside strolls, these beginner-friendly hikes aren’t just easy on your legs, they’re a gift to your mental health, too. Here are 7…

A winding trail through Maybury's lush late fall woodlands
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Embracing Late Fall Serenity: A Journey Through Maybury State Park

Introduction Step into the tranquility of late fall at Maybury State Park, where nature transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of autumn hues. As your Michigan Travelist, I’m delighted to guide you through the park’s seasonal magic, showcasing the unique charm and diverse activities that make Maybury a standout destination. Join me on a virtual exploration…