Yooper foliage rivals the famed New England Fall Foliage
Ah, fall in the Michigan Upper Peninsula. The time of year when Mother Nature takes out her paintbrush and transforms the landscape into a riot of vibrant colors. As you drive along the winding roads, you can’t help but feel like you’re driving through a giant kaleidoscope. From the fiery oranges to the deep purples, every turn offers a new burst of beauty that will leave you breathless…and maybe a little dizzy.
But let me tell you, experiencing fall foliage in the UP is not all about picturesque scenes and scenic drives. Oh no, my friends! It’s also about becoming an expert leafologist. You see, there are different types of leaves out there that I guarantee you’ve never heard of before. Like the Flutterleaf – these little buggers have tiny wings that make them dance on the breeze. Or how about the Sparkleleaf? These leaves are covered in tiny crystals that catch the sunlight and make them shimmer like diamonds as they fall to the ground.
So don’t just settle for your average autumn experience this year. Head up to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and immerse yourself in a world where even the leaves have tricks up their sleeves (or should I say branches?). Get ready for nature’s very own color show and be prepared for surprises around every corner – because when it comes to fall foliage in Michigan UP, nothing is as it seems…except for one thing: pure magic awaits you!
Just in case you need some fall foliage colors for your wall, this is available as a print on your choice of surfaces. Prints available: CLICK HERE.
An iconic barn near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan
Located in the heart of Michigan near the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, this Patriotic Red Barn stands tall and proud with its classic American flag design. With its iconic red color contrasting against the sky, this barn serves as a nostalgic reminder of our nation’s history and the values we hold dear. A symbol of resilience and determination, it has become an emblematic landmark for both locals and visitors alike.
But beyond its visual appeal, the Patriotic Red Barn holds deeper significance. It embodies the spirit of unity that exists within our diverse society. As different people pass by or gather around this barn, they are reminded that despite our differences, we are all part of something greater – a shared love for our country. This barn acts as a unifying force that brings people together under one commonality: patriotism.
Whether you catch a glimpse of it on your daily commute or go out of your way to visit Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore specifically to see it, the Patriotic Red Barn creates an impact like no other structure can. Its timeless charm continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations. So next time you find yourself near Michigan’s picturesque landscape, don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness this powerful symbol firsthand – standing steadfast amidst changing times yet reminding us all of what it truly means to be proud Americans.
A spectacular start to a day on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
As the first rays of sunlight kiss the shores of Escanaba Harbor in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors paints the sky. The tranquil waters mirror the vibrant hues, creating an ethereal play of light and shadow. In this serene moment, Mother Nature gifts us with her awe-inspiring spectacle.
The stillness of the harbor is broken only by the gentle lapping of waves against the dock and the occasional cry of a seagull soaring above. As dawn breaks, fishermen prepare their boats, ready to embark on a day filled with hopeful anticipation. The air is crisp and invigorating, carrying with it whispers of new beginnings and endless possibilities.
With each passing moment, as hues deepen from soft pastels to fiery oranges and pinks, one cannot help but feel a sense of gratitude for being present in this magical space. Time seems to stand still as nature puts on her grandest show just for us; we become acutely aware that these fleeting moments are meant to be cherished. As darkness gives way to light, witnessing sunrise at Escanaba Harbor becomes more than just witnessing a celestial event – it becomes an experience that touches our souls and reminds us of our connection to something greater than ourselves.
In this captivating dance between land and sea, where sky meets water in perfect harmony, we find solace in knowing that nature’s beauty will continue to unfold before our very eyes each day. Escanaba Harbor serves not only as a picturesque backdrop but also as wonderful display for your home.
Half of the Menominee Light is in Wisconsin while the other half is in Michigan.
The Menominee North Pier Lighthouse stands tall and proud at the entrance of the Menominee River, where it joins Lake Michigan. Located on the border between Wisconsin and Michigan, this historic beacon has been guiding sailors since 1877. As you approach the lighthouse, you can’t help but be captivated by its striking red brick construction and classic white concrete base.
Menominee North Pier Lighthouse
(More photos coming soon)
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Menominee North Pier Lighthouse is its unique dual-state status. Half of the lighthouse sits in Wisconsin while the other half rests in Michigan. This unusual division serves as a gentle reminder that borders needn’t divide us; they can simply enhance our appreciation for shared history and natural beauty.
Standing atop this majestic structure (open seasonally) offers breathtaking panoramic views of both states, with Lake Michigan stretching out endlessly before your eyes. As waves crash against the pier below, you may even catch a glimpse of freighters gracefully making their way through these Great Lakes waters – a true testament to mankind’s ability to work harmoniously with nature.
Visiting Menominee North Pier Lighthouse allows you to step back in time while experiencing an enchanting blend of history and scenic wonderment. Close your eyes and imagine being transported back to a simpler era when sailors relied on these beacons to guide them home safely. With each visit, this remarkable symbol reminds us not only of our rich maritime heritage but also our interconnectedness as fellow adventurers sailing upon Life’s great waters.
Photographing ships on the St. Clair River on a blustery day.
It is not often that far distant art photographers with a similar passion for photographing ships actually get to meet in person. Mary Bedy lives in a perfect Michigan location to photograph the freighters, ships and boats that ply the waters of the Great Lakes. Bill Swartwout lives on the Atlantic coast and is only able to photograph ships while on vacation somewhere. The passing freighters along the coast are far too distant to shoot but, fortunately, he also enjoys shooting bridges.
Bill Swartwout and Mary Bedy on the boardwalk in St. Clair, MI (photo by Nancy Swartwout)
Bill and his wife, Nancy, were vacationing in western Michigan and had planned to visit the city of Frankenmuth, MI on the way home. Frankenmuth was close to St. Clair – so a lunch meetup was arranged for the next day. The three of us met at the Voyageur Inn on the St. Clair River and boardwalk – the very same boardwalk that offers Mary a wonderful vantage point to photograph any ship that passes from Lake Huron to Lake Erie (or vice versa).
We opted for a window table, of course, and during our time there we had the opportunity to see four freighters pass by the boardwalk and restaurant. Well one was really the barge, Joseph H. Thompson with pusher-tugboat, Laura L. VanEnkevort – but it “looked” similar to a freighter.
Joseph H. Thompson Barge by Mary Bedy
A rare occurrence of ships passing on the river…
After a wonderful lunch and great conversation we move out into the cold and blustery October day to the boardwalk for the obligatory selfies (photo session). As we were doing that there were two ships approaching and doing something very seldom seen. They were passing by one another right in front of us. There must be something to be said about two artists who live 700 miles apart meeting at this location and point in time.
Freighters Michipicoten and CSL Laurentien are about to pass, port-to-port, on the St. Clair River in front of the boardwalk in St. Clair, Michigan
This was , indeed, a wonderful opportunity for two photographers, passionate about their art, to be able to meet in person. Before this day they only knew one another through their common use of Fine Art America to produce their photography as Print-On-Demand wall art and home decor items.
Find wall art photographs by Mary Bedy and Bill Swartwout
The wind, waves and broken clouds add excitement to this evening scene at Grand Beach, MI.
The beauty of a sunset:
As the sun sets over Lake Michigan, the water turns a beautiful shades of orange and pink. The sky is a stunning purple color as the waves march to the shore. It’s a peaceful and calming sight to see.
Lake Michigan Sunset at Grand Beach, New Buffalo
The colors of a sunset:
This Sunset over Lake Michigan was one of the most beautiful sights of our recent road trip to Michigan. The colors are so vivid and the sky is so clear. A sunset over “the lake” a must see for anyone who loves nature.
The peace of a sunset:
As the sun sets over Lake Michigan, the sky is ablaze with colors of orange, yellow and pink. The cool breeze blowing off the lake is a refreshing contrast to the warm summer temperatures. This is a perfect time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Whether you are watching the sunset from the shoreline or out on a boat, it is an experience you will never forget.
The conclusion:
The sun slowly sinks behind the horizon, casting a beautiful orange hue over the waters of Lake Michigan. It’s a perfect evening for a stroll along the beach, or perhaps a romantic dinner overlooking the water. As the last rays of sunlight disappear, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace and wonder at the natural beauty of this place.
The bright red lighthouse at Charlevoix, MI is a beautiful sight to see.
Intro: The pierhead light at Charlevoix, Michigan is an aid to navigation on Lake Michigan delineating the pier/breakwater at the entrance to the harbor of Round Lake. When viewed against a bright blue sky, this uniquely bright red paint is quite distinctive and memorable.
In this Expressionism Abstract presentation, the bright red against the bright blue is distinctive and makes a statement that would look great as an accent piece or “conversation starter” in your home or office.
Here’s where to see larger images and/or to purchase prints of home decor items.
The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse (pierhead light) at Charlevoix, Michigan is an aid to navigation on Lake Michigan. This lighthouse was deemed excess and offered at no cost to eligible entities, including federal, state, and local agencies, non-profit corporations, and educational organizations under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000.
Lighthouses are one of the most recognizable landmarks around the world, displaying a guiding light as a symbol of adventure and discovery. The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse is an aid to navigation on Lake Michigan delineating the pier/breakwater at the entrance to the harbor of Round Lake.
Constructed in 1873 and located at the mouth of Round Lake at Charlevoix, Michigan, the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse was dedicated on January 21, 1874, three days after its construction. The lighthouse became operational on January 1, 1895 and is still a functioning aid to navigation.
Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse Wall Art – Perfect for the maritime collector, or for a coastal home! The light in the foreground is a fifth order Fresnel lens characteristic of early 19th century towers. This is twice as large as the standard 3-inch lens found in many small lighthouses. The light in the center is a lens that would have been used during the foggy nights on Lake Michigan.
As a leading retailer of lighthouse artwork, marine prints, and nautical decor, we are pleased to offer you this lighthouse print. The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse Wall Art is a beautiful representation of the location where you can enjoy a day on the pier.
Here you can find Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse Wall Art which is the reproduction of a print by Clayton Thomas. This souvenir print is printed on heavyweight paper using an inkjet printer and depicts an 1882 vintage postcard view of Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, circa 1939. The lighthouse was established in 1839 as a wooden tower with lantern room, replaced with a brick tower between 1843 and 1875, it stands 30 feet (9 m) tall.
The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse wall art print is stunning. Each order is made using high-quality materials. The framing is unique and a final touch, making your print the centerpiece of any room. Take a look by clicking one of the included links or the images themselves.
Add some coastal style to any room with this stunning piece of Lake Michigan nostalgia. The image captures part of the harbor entrance at Charlevoix, Michigan, with a view featuring the pierhead light.
Bring the joy of Michigan to your home with this charming and colorful image. With the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan right in your home, you have a constant reminder of summer days spent on the water and warm memories waiting to be made.
Two historic beacons on a breakwater. At the entrance of the St. Joseph River on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan are two lights, the St. Joseph North Pierhead Lighthouse and the St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse.
These two aids to navigation date back to the early 1900’s to help guide ships safely into the harbor – shared by St. Joseph and Benton Harbor, MI.
The image was presented in an almost “painterly” fashion by Mother Nature. Only a small amount of editing was done in post-processing – just cropping and a bit of contrast adjustment. It is also available in a black and white version that gives this nautical scene a different feel that might work well as wall art in an office.
