One of the many things we look forward to in Leelanau are the spring flowers. About this time each year my wife and I pick up the "In Bloom" flower list from the Park Headquarters and hike the Empire Bluff trail. The flowers are great this year! Do you know your flowers? Can you tell a Dutchman's breeches from a Squirrel-corn flower? Having them growing side-by-side (and a flower book in hand) made our hike this year very satisfying.

– Lou Ricord, Empire, MI

My son and I have really enjoyed our camping adventures on North Manitou Island! Making time for just a few days together has been great!  My mother instilled her love of the outdoors and nature in us both as we hiked the Northwest where she lived for many years.  This area is every bit as beautiful!  

– Joanie Weaver, Kalamazoo Michigan

For text from earlier posting, click here.

– Shelly Meyer, Zeeland, MI

Taking a back road in Leelanau can seem like daring to go where no man has gone before.  I discovered this beautiful spot some years ago, and every time I return to it I feel I'm traveling back in time to a simpler era when a farm boy might sneak away from his chores to wander down a dusty lane.  I was delighted to discover that one of Leelanau's many artists had painted this scene, and now I only have to look at the print over my fireplace mantel to trigger an imaginary walk on a lazy afternoon. 

– Cara Lee Paige, Kalamazoo & Northport, MI

Photo: Elayne Ciavattone, Chesterfield, MI

Blossom Day, Saturday, May 10 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.A Blossom Tour will be highlighted by bus excursions across Leelanau County’s most beautiful settings, all awash in spring cherry blooms. Three buses will leave in 20-minute increments from the Connie Binsfeld center in Lake Leelanau to make one-hour trips through Leelanau’s orchard country. Stops will be provided at three orchards, where those on the tour can attend planned events, snap pictures at their own leisure or simply take a walk through some of the prettiest countryside on earth. Free. Sponsored by the Leelanau Conservancy, the Leelanau Enterprise and the Leelanau Soil Conservation District.

Learn more click here: The Conservancy Blossom Tour