Today is all about things to do here in the Keweenaw. The first archive shot is one of my favorites. It was snapped at just the right moment, by Ashley Byykkonen back in 2005. She caught the water dripping into Lake Superior, creating an outstanding effect in that moment in time. Spending time on the shores of the Big Lake is the number one thing to do around these parts.

The next photo was taken by Tricia Oleksy Spayer in 2006. That’s her Dad, Jerry, who had already earned a Master Angler Certificate from the DNR before this photo was taken of him and the 22 inch smallmouth bass he caught. Tricia took this photo at the Red Sands Resort in Lac La Belle. Life doesn’t get much better than doing what you love, in a place you love.

Back in 2010, Laura Zerbst and her family were camping at Fort Wilkins, so of course they made a visit to the Fort, too. That’s her daughter on the porch there. She actually looks like she’s part of the “interpreter group” that is often there at the Fort, to portray what it was like living there when it was an operating military post. It’s fun to explore the Fort buildings and so educational, too.

Yesterday we mentioned something you can do this coming Sunday, and here’s a reminder: It’s the Keweenaw County Historical Society Open House, from 9:00 to 6:00 at the Eagle Harbor Life Saving Museum. Take a drive UP North and enjoy the historical displays and tour the USCG 47 ft. Motor Life Boat.

We end today with a virtual tour of Fort Wilkins, in the company of twin sisters back in 2010. They take us through the buildings and around the grounds. Enjoy a quick look at history in this Copper Harbor gem.

Just in case you missed "Critter Day" on yesterday's Pasty Cam, here's a link to get back there to check them all out, including Finley, the hiking dog and the cool cage free kitty room at the U.P. Animal Shelter in Negaunee. Thursday's Pasty Cam.

I guess I should explain the earlier (yesterday's?) post.

Nat and I are in the U.P.! We started Tuesday by spending the night in St. Ignace before going to Mackinac Island Wednesday morning getting photos for my project. After spending the night on the Island, we went to Drummond Island yesterday getting pics of the Maxton Plains and the Fossil Ledges. On the ferry ride back across, Nat spotted a large ship; none other than the Paul R. Tregurtha headed towards the Locks. Since we were staying in the Soo anyway, we headed down to the Locks and managed to see the Tregurtha go through last night, as well as see the Roger Blough waiting impatiently right behind. Today, we head for the Keweenaw after getting some more photos in the Newberry area.

Great photos today. I got to say that is one hefty Smallmouth for these parts!

Mary says: Welcome to the U.P., Capt. Paul and Dr. Nat! Sounds like you're really getting around. Feel free to send some photos my way. We'll get some worked into the Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday "current photo" lineup. Enjoy your time UP here!

Envying you and Nat today, Capt Paul! Enjoy your visit!

I second that.

Captain:

Sounds like quite the Alvarian expedition.
Did you bring the Jeep this trip?
Have fun and be safe.

p.s. I found the old Slate quarry last summer.

D. A. (Midwested):
"… Sounds like quite the Alvarian expedition. …"

Alvarian?
I must have missed something.

Maxton Plains is one of the best examples of an "alvar".

I will get some pics to you, Mary. Just have to get settled in and such.

Oh, I see, this (click →) "Alvar". The only "Alvar" I knew about until now was (click →) this one. 😎

I knew my play on words (well OK, I simply made it up) would get FRNash's attention.

I've often thought about exploring that part of the UP some more. Now I have a geologic reason to add to the list.

Alvar...wasn't that a movie?

...or was it a chipmunk, I just can't remember things anymore.

Alex,
You're thinking of that one with the chipmunks.

Captain,
Just checked Marine Traffic. The Roger Blough has over-taken the Paul R. Tregurtha and is arriving in Superior first, easily 25 miles ahead. I bet they "had words" during the pass.