North Manitou Island Early June

“After a long time thinking about it, I'm finally going to N. Manitou Island. Going late late May or early June. Besides the typical answer of be prepared for any weather-its Michigan, has anyone hiked NMI this time of year-What weather did you get. Also what are the bugs like?

Any places on the island that are must see?

Thanks
Detroit/Kalamazoo(I haven't figured out how to change my name)”

“Make sure you see Swanson's barn and that area...the West side where Cresent city once was. DO NOT under any circumstances camp by Manitou Lake this time of year. The bugs will carry you off! Otherwise they aren't too bad. Sometimes they get a bit pesky in the forrests but if you camp near the shore of Lake MI you should be fine. I suggest doing a full circuit of the island. Walk the outside. The difference between the N and S ends is pretty cool. You'll end up seeing alot of the interior too. Another really neat place is the Frank farm's apple orchard. In spring it's full of blossoms and the woods surrounding it are loaded with trilliums and old rusty farm equipment. Have fun and make sure you reserve your ferry tickets in advance!”

“Hey K-Zoo!

I went the weekend after Memorial Day a couple years ago. When I was there, I did not experience the bug problem that Sass describes by Lake Manitou. In fact, I was quite surprised at the lack of bugs both nights, especially when we near the lake.

If you are on the north side of the Island, in Stormer Camp, head north on a small side trail that takes you to a cliff overlooking Lake Michigan. Didn't see a soul once we took off on that trail. We camped just off the cliff inside the trees.

Weather: I had great weather. I think it was in the high 70s during the day. 50s at night. Perfect. Of course, as you already know, expect anything...”

“We were there Memorial Day weekend, years ago. We had highs of maybe 55 or so, cool nights and rain on one day. Who knows, maybe the bugs won't be bad. We've had a fairly dry spring.”

“Walking the perimiter of the island, on the shore, is rough on the north end. Trees that fall off the bluff will force you into the water.”

“I was talking about sticking to trails along the outside of the island, not walking on the beach. There is no beach in some spots on the N side.”