We officially hit the road Monday at 9 AM ET – yep, later than planned. Turns out, there’s always one more thing to do or pack. We rolled up I-75 and crossed into the Upper Peninsula on the Mighty Mac under a sky of pure blue. Luckily, the wind was not too much for the truck/trailer combo on the bridge.

Prior to the bridge, I had picked up my classic road trip combo: peach rings and a Diet Dr. Pepper. I don’t drink much pop these days, so this felt like a real indulgence. Totally worth it.

The drive across the U.P. was scenic and smooth and not too slow. We didn’t stop except for gas as we were determined to make Duluth, Minnesota by nightfall. But, we were treated to some gorgeous views of Lake Superior along the way. (I have no pictures that do it justice.) Honestly, Michigan really is stunning. We’re so lucky to call it home.

Zeke was a very good boy the whole way. He curled up in his backseat hammock and snoozed between gas stops, just happy to be along for the ride. We couldn’t ask for a better travel buddy.

After crossing the border, we spent about 100 miles cutting across northern Wisconsin to reach Duluth. And I’ve got to say: northern Wisconsin looks a whole lot like northern Michigan. In other words—beautiful!