Harrisville

Harrisville, in Northeast Michigan, is one of the hidden wonders of the Sunrise Side of the state. Time seems to have slowed here, for the best. Harrisville’s bed and breakfasts welcome guests in need of quiet, and guests who are eager to experience nature.

Lake Huron stretches invitingly to the east, easily accessed by the Harrisville Harbor. Anglers are in paradise when out on Lake Huron, or when fishing one of the more than 60 nearby inland lakes or countless streams. Harrisville bed and breakfast innkeepers may be able to offer advice on local fishing charters and fishing holes.

Just south of town is Harrisville State Park, one of the oldest state parks in Michigan -though in 1921 it was significantly smaller than its current 107-acres. Walk to the park from town, or from a bed and breakfast. Two miles of trails are good for hiking and cross-country skiing, and the beach is lovely any time of year.

The Sturgeon Point Lighthouse was built in 1869 and is still active today. It sits atop a large reef that poses a real threat to mariners and also marks Sanctuary Bay, a bay south of Alcona that offers shelter from northerly winds. This Michigan lighthouse is open to visitation; visitors may climb the tower during the summer and visit the Old Bailey School, a one-room schoolhouse built in 1907. Stay at a bed and breakfast at the end of June and take part in the annual strawberry social at the Bailey School.

Other popular activities include golf, cycling, and ORV fun. There are two golf courses in Harrisville, and several others a short distance from town. There are terrific trails in Northeast Michigan ideal for biking, skiing and walking. Two lead out of Alpena, just thirty minutes north of Harrisville: the Alpena to Mackinac Trail and the Alpena to Hilman Trail.

It’s easy to delve into nature in Northeast Michigan. Give it a try while lodging in a Harrisville bed and breakfast.