Beaver Island, Michigan Part Two

America's Emerald Isle

Published in the February 2018 Issue November 2018 Feature Heather Magda Serrano

Trails Galore

Then don’t forget your binoculars and bird identification charts because Beaver Island is also a critical stopover point for migratory birds.

As the birds fly up Lake Michigan on their way north to breeding grounds, a large variety of birds stay to rest. This is where the Beaver Island Birding Trail (BIBT) comes in handy.

The BIBT holds over 12,000 acres of state and township lands and four Little Traverse Conservancy preserves. On these trails, you never know what you’ll see.

Speaking of trails, something exciting they’re working on for Beaver Island is a new water trail you can travel by kayak. West mentioned they are going initiate the project at the end of the year.

The water trail will surround Beaver Island and have various stopovers for you to explore. You can be sure that it will be one of the more fun and interesting water trails out there because of all the unique scenery surrounding Beaver Island amidst the backdrop of Lake Michigan.

Marinas

Beaver Island is home to two marinas. They have the Beaver Island Municipal Marina and the Beaver Island Marina.

The Beaver Island Municipal Marina has around three dozen slips and they accept reservations. It doesn’t have a fuel dock, but it has a pumpout station and every slip has access to water and power. They also have internet access.

Then there’s Beaver Island Marina which is privately owned. They also accept reservations and have 50 slips. Some of these slips are set aside for transient sailors. This marina comes complete with a fuel dock and a pumpout station.

Need some repairs? They’ve got you covered. Beaver Island Marina offers engine, mechanical, electrical and fiberglass repairs.

Music Festivals

A couple of events you won’t want to miss in the summer are their cultural music festivals.

“We have music from down home to the classical here,” shared West.

In mid-July, there’s the Beaver Island Music Festival. This three-day event combines nature, renewable energy, music, artwork and dancing. This is a festival for every age group. There are tons of fun activities, food, camping and best of all you get to enjoy it on the beautiful Beaver Island!

Then get ready for a culturally refined experience with Baroque On Beaver. This is a festival all about classical music and it brings professional and student musicians together to perform. Performances range from smaller ensembles to a full orchestra and chorus concert.

What are you waiting for? Get yourself to Beaver Island where all the fun is!