Mike Terrell. Photo by Joan Young
By Joan Young, MCP Contributing Writer
Mike Terrell has been an outdoor writer in northern Michigan for 45 years, and he not only talks the talk, he walks the walk. If there is a trail to explore, he’s probably walked, skied or bicycled it. And he paddles, too!
His newest book, “On the Trails of Northern Michigan,” is collected from his columns which appear in the Traverse City Record-Eagle. Sixty-eight trails are described with suggested seasons to best enjoy them. This is a helpful division, as it is not always obvious in descriptions which trails abound with spring wildflowers and which have colorful autumn displays. Hiking in the “wrong” season isn’t totally disappointing, but it’s nice to know when you can seize the best sensory experience. There are seven additional articles which cover topics of interest such as ticks, sunsets, mushrooming, and paddling.
“I’ve been enjoying trail walks ever since moving up here in 1980, and also doing outdoor articles for the same amount of time,” Mike said. “I put out a couple of books on cross country skiing and mountain biking in the mid-1980’s and just decided in the last few years to put out another one. This is such a great area for getting outdoors, and I enjoy sharing.”
Each entry begins with the text of his column, and then includes “Terrell’s Trail Notes.” There are tips for finding the trailheads, watching for junctions, and best loops for vistas or distances.
For anyone who wants to find a natural place to explore in the northern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula (and a few trails in the UP), this newest book is a valuable resource.
He offers suggestions for places, including the Boardman River and Platte River, where you can paddle and pedal, making a self-supporting loop with kayak/canoe and a bicycle ride. Ski and snowshoe trails are also included.
A few of the described hikes are part of the North Country National Scenic Trail. Jordan River Valley near Petoskey and Valley of the Giants near Traverse City are two of these.
Photos are black and white, but there are a good number of them.
Probably the greatest drawback is that the book does not contain maps. However, almost all public trails now offer online maps that are kept somewhat up-to-date, so a quick search should provide a map. Many places post maps at the trailhead, and you can snap a picture of this on your cell phone to follow as you hike.
If you want a resource that’s easy to pick up in hand and discover nearby new places to adventure, this is an excellent book.
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