Mich-e-ke-wis Park

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway on the shores of Lake Huron, look no further than Mich-e-ke-wis Park. This scenic public space in Alpena, USA, harmoniously blends the features of a nature reserve with a modern recreation area. The park is famous for its wide strip of sandy beach and open views of Thunder Bay.

A unique feature of this place is the surprisingly hard sand, allowing cars to drive right on the beach—a rare sight for coastal parks. The grounds are adorned with sprawling weeping willows, and the shore offers an excellent vantage point for viewing Grass Island. Nature lovers often come here to spot rare shorebirds that frequent these calm waters.

The park is divided into two functional zones: the older southern section, home to a playground and the site of the popular Saturday farmers market, and the updated northern section featuring modern facilities for active leisure. It’s the perfect spot for anyone wanting to experience the true atmosphere of Northern Michigan.

To plan your visit and check for upcoming events, we recommend reviewing the park's official contact information. This data will help you easily locate the location and contact the city administration if needed.

The park's main draw is, of course, its magnificent sandy beach. During the summer months, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Huron are perfect for swimming, and the wide shoreline comfortably accommodates everyone. For those who prefer active recreation on land, the park is equipped with excellent volleyball courts and a modern skate park.

Sports enthusiasts will find grassy fields ideal for flying kites or playing team games like kickball. Specially equipped shelters allow for cozy family picnics even on windy days, all while remaining surrounded by inspiring panoramic views of the bay.

If you prefer quiet contemplation, take a stroll along the water's edge to watch the birds or gaze at the silhouette of Grass Island on the horizon. Additionally, the 18-mile Alpena Bi-Path runs through the park, perfect for a bike ride or a long walk to enjoy the fresh lake breeze.

Getting to this scenic coastal spot is quite easy, as the park is located at 1302 S State Ave. It is situated just a few steps east of downtown Alpena, making it easily accessible on foot from the city center.

If traveling by car, the most convenient route is via US-23. Parking is available on-site and is currently being modernized for visitor convenience. In the summer, a unique feature of the beach is its hard sand, which allows you to drive your car right up to the water's edge.

For active travelers, a bicycle is an excellent option. The park is integrated into the Alpena Bi-Path—an 18-mile trail system circling the city. While public transportation in Alpena is limited, you can always use a local taxi service to quickly reach the park entrance from anywhere in the city.

The history of this coastal area dates back long before the city's founding in 1871; it once served as seasonal fishing grounds for the Ojibwe, Ottawa, and Potawatomi indigenous peoples. The name Mich-e-ke-wis itself is a tribute to the rich Native American heritage of the Michigan region.

The park began to be actively used as a recreation area in the first half of the 20th century. Notably, in 1937, when Great Lakes water levels dropped significantly, a unique shallow beach was formed. Back then, mobile docks, slides, and even diving boards were installed on the shore, making the park a hub for all residents of Alpena.

The area's geological features also played a role: low water levels in Lake Huron helped wash up wide sandy plateaus. As a result, the sand here acquired an unusual density, providing a solid foundation for the beach area that remains to this day.

In recent decades, the park has undergone a period of revitalization. Following the city's modern master plan, improvement works are regularly carried out, including the addition of professional volleyball courts, new walking trails, and modern rest areas, making Mich-e-ke-wis Park an important part of the region's contemporary history.

For a quick introduction to the park and a short walk along the shores of Lake Huron, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This is plenty of time to enjoy the views, take some photos with the willows, and look out over Thunder Bay.

If you're planning a full family outing with a picnic, beach time, or volleyball, it's better to set aside half a day (about 3–4 hours). You should also allow extra time if you decide to combine your visit with a trip along the famous Alpena Bi-Path, which offers beautiful panoramic views of the coastal islands.

The park is welcoming to visitors daily. The standard operating hours are from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, allowing you to enjoy both the midday sun and scenic evening sunsets over the lake.

However, schedules may change depending on the season or special events, such as the Saturday farmers market. Before your trip, we recommend checking the City of Alpena's official website to confirm current hours and any potential restrictions.

Exploring the area around the park can greatly enrich your trip, as Alpena is famous for its historic buildings and maritime heritage. Many interesting sites that tell the story of the region's development are located within walking or a short driving distance from the coast.