The Journal
Welcome to the blog where we post all the things.
session stories ● guides & information ● Michigan travel tips ● our own adventures ● + other things… 
Sunrise, Sunset + Northern Lights: Alex & Kate’s Upper Peninsula Elopement
Kate and Alex knew they wanted something unforgettable for their elopement, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula delivered. Their adventure spanned two days—Thursday was all about exploring, from a sunrise first look at Marquette’s retired ore dock to hiking waterfalls, summiting Sugarloaf Mountain, and catching sunset on Miner’s Beach. Just when the day couldn’t get any more magical, the northern lights put on an incredible show over Au Train Beach. It was the perfect mix of adventure, intimacy, and pure UP magic. See all the highlights from their breathtaking elopement!
Aurora Over Au Train, Michigan | 10.10.2024
October 10th 2024 the northern lights danced over Lake Superior in an epic display that was nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment night fell until the sun rose again, the sky erupted in every direction full of colors to the naked eye. Overhead the auroral corona stretched downward, reaching for earth. Standing beneath it reminded me just how vast the universe is and how lucky we are to witness these moments. If you've dreamed of seeing the northern lights, remember, northern Michigan delivers.
From Stargazer to Astronomer: Dreams Come True at The Headlands International Dark Sky Park
As a kid, I spent nights staring up at the stars, dreaming of one day becoming an astronomer. Fast forward to this past summer, and I had the chance to volunteer at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park as an astronomer—a dream I thought had long passed. In this post, I share a more personal side of chasing dreams, staying inspired, and remaining open to the possibilities the universe offers. From stargazing on my trampoline and chasing auroras to exploring deep space, this journey has been weird and wild, but so fascinating. Hold onto those big, wild dreams—the universe might surprise you in the most unexpected ways...
Chasing the Aurora in Northern Michigan
“See the Northern Lights”, the bucketlist item just waiting to be scratched off! Here’s a quick guide to help get you there a little sooner - a quick guide to what the data means, where to find it and how to know if it’s a “put your pants on” kind of night or stay home and stay warm kind of evening.
Wilderness State Park | Surrounded by the Northern Lights
Wilderness State Park is one of northern Michigan’s top spots for viewing the northern lights. With dark skies and an open horizon over Lake Michigan, it’s the perfect place to witness the aurora borealis. On active nights, vibrant green and purple lights dance over the water, creating a stunning display.
On March 23, 2023, the skies over Wilderness State Park burst in vibrant colors and dancing lights from sunset to sunrise, marking a spectacular beginning to Solar Cycle 25's solar maximum.