It was an extremely early run to Frankfort, MI. We had approximately 64 NM to navigate along with our buddy boat “Beachside” . Our original plan was to head to Traverse City but the future forecast was not good with predicted 30 knot winds which would have us trapped in Traverse City for at least 3 days. We set up for a sunrise departure through the canal. The weather was fair with rain in the forecast. We headed south west crossing Grand Traverse Bay then cut between N. Manitou Island and Pyramid Point following the coast of Michigan. We found depths of over 600 feet along our run. It was too bad the weather was so poor because the Michigan shoreline was covered with big sand dune cliffs and sandy beaches. The chance for great photos were minimal. After passing the Point Betsie Lighthouse we turned south for the entrance canal that would take us into Betsie Lake and the town of Frankfort, MI. It was at least an eight hour journey
After settling in for our 3 night stay in Frankfort we washed the boat and relaxed with a well deserved cold beverage. On day two in Frankfort we got the bikes out and joined a group of loopers for a 10 mile ride to the town of Beulah, MI. There was a great bike path through the Betsie River State Game Refuge then along the shores of Crystal Lake. Our original goal was to find a nice brewery but they were not open yet so we settled for the Hungry Tummy Corner Pub. After a few beverages and light apps it was back on the bikes to head back to Frankfort. Later that evening we met a large group of Loopers for happy hour at Dinghy’s Restaurant and Bar and a nightcap at the Villa Marine Bar and Grill. There was such a large contingent of Loopers making it difficult to make proper reservations as most of the restaurants would not accommodate us eventually separating us.
On day three Tom from Beachside and Bob from Changin Latitudes set out on a long hilly bike ride to The Point Betsie Lighthouse. https://pointbetsie.org/overview After visiting the lighthouse we surprised Bob with an idea of riding around the north side of Crystal Lake to Beulah turning a ten mile ride into over thirty. He was game so we made the trek stopping at the Hungry Tummy then returning to Frankfort.
After a great stay at Frankfort is was off to bed for another early start to continue our adventures.