Day Trip Along M-22
by Josh Thaxton

Staying in an area where you can reach M-22? Here are some ideas that might intrigue you:

If you want to go on a family trip, pack the kids in the car, a picnic basket full of goodies, fill your gas tank, and head out on the road! But if you are looking for a relaxed, romantic drive, pack the basket, and fill your tank and go.

Let's start with Onekama. Onekama is home to Portage Lake where settlement began with the construction of a lumber mill. Some restaurants include: Blue Slipper Bistro, Ruths Chris Steak House and others.

Then go up M-22 and visit Arcadia. One of the many wonders of this world are Gravity Hills. This one is located at the intersection of Putney and Joyfield Roads. All you have to do to experience this is park your car at the bottom of the hill and put your vehicle in neutral. You will feel the effects of going up­-hill! Also see the rolling hills and beautiful waters of Arcadia. This town is a common tourist attraction.

Frankfort is next on the list. Drive North on M-22 to where it connects to M-115. Take that road to Frankfort. Here you will be able to get out and view the Frankfort North Breakwater Light. Walk out to the lighthouse on the outstretched pier. You will see many fisherman leaning over the side, trying to get the catch of the day. Once you are finished, you can take off your shoes and stroll the beaches of Frankfort.

Elberta is just down the road from Frankfort. Here is the home of one of the still functioning Lifeguard stations in Michigan. The members will give you a tour of the station and demonstrate how many of the operations are carried out.

Now let's visit Empire. The Museum of Empire Air Force Station is a historical landmark of Northern Michigan. This site is from the Cold War era when our country was threatened by ballistic missiles. This former USAF Aerospace Defense Command Post protected local areas from any threat that came from the air. Nowadays, you can visit and explore the retired station.

The last stop is the Northern end of M-22. Follow the road all the way to where it ends in the Grand Traverse area. Park your car at any one of the beach's parking lots and enjoy the remaining rays of the sun with your family or loved one.