Dream Itinerary: Michigan

While winter’s grip on the Midwest is long and steady, Michigan comes alive during the long days of summer. On the picturesque sunset side of “the Mitten,” wineries, summer sports, historic lighthouses and Victorian avenues provide precious memories to last all year long. Michigan is an expansive state with more than 3,000 miles of coastline and countless rivers and inland lakes to explore. The GMC® Yukon Denali and 170 Dauntless pair perfectly to enjoy the many charms of this inland coast during its most vibrant season.

Rule the Road
Follow these trailering tips from the experts at GMC to ensure your road trip goes smoothly. Keep in mind that safe boating is smart boating, and towing begins before you even hit the dock. (Additional tips can be found at GMC.com, or consult your local Boston Whaler dealer.)

• Before you hit the road, ensure that all lights and systems on your vehicle are in good working order. Double check that lights and signals on the trailer function properly.
• Check your vehicle’s tow capacity in your owner’s manual to ensure you are well equipped to tow your Whaler with ease.
• Your vehicle will accelerate and brake slower than normal while hitched to a trailer. Remember to leave plenty of space for traffic when changing lanes and always practice defensive driving.
• Every time you pull over and stop on a long tow, do a visual inspection of the hitch, wiring and tires for extra peace of mind.

Charlevoix
Begin your trailering journey in this posh lakeside town and you’ll understand why it’s known locally as “Charlevoix the Beautiful.” Filled to the brim with shops and art galleries, this little gem impresses with stunning architecture, including Earl Young’s fanciful “gnome homes,” which highlight materials native to the area. Use your Whaler to hop along the many public beaches or boat to nearby Beaver Island, if you’re feeling adventurous, to see the picturesque Beaver Head Lighthouse, built in 1858. Inland fishing on Lake Charlevoix for perch and blue gills is a treat for little ones, or simply cruise and admire the many beautiful summer homes that dot the lake.

Traverse City
Steer your Yukon Denali along US-31 S—stopping at Torch Lake or Elk Lake, if you like—to reach Traverse City. Known for its bright, ripe cherries and burgeoning wine scene, Traverse City is the foodie stop of this trailering trip with many vineyards accessible directly from Grand Traverse Bay. Enjoy the local grapes or catch the National Cherry Festival in July for some sweet treats. The east and west branches of the bay provide plenty of opportunities for boating and water sports and many public launches offer simple launch-and-park options. When you want to see town, rent a bike to explore turn-of-the-century Front Street, the heart and soul of Traverse City full of antiques and ice cream shops.

Hart
Hop back on US-31 S with your Yukon Denali to reach the southern end of your trailering trip in Hart. The highlight is undoubtedly Silver Lake State Park, with 2,000 acres of sweeping sand dunes so grand it’s difficult to believe you’re in the U.S. Soak up the sandy scene while tubing or cruising on your Whaler. Want sand in your shoes? Parrot’s Landing provides dune-buggy rentals and gives half-day guided tours. You can also drop a line in Silver Lake for walleye, bass and pike. Looking for a bigger bite? Head out to nearby Lake Michigan for record-breaking salmon and trout. More than 200 modern campsites allow you to extend your trip for as long as you like. With so much to explore and a dependable GMC and Boston Whaler in tow, there’s no limit to what you can discover in these coastal charmers.

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This is for general information purposes only. Your use or reliance on any of the information in this Blog is solely at your own risk. Under no circumstance will we have any liability for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any of the information provided.

Options and features mentioned subject to change. Please confirm availability of all accessories and equipment with an authorized Boston Whaler Dealer.