Deep within the northern Michigan woods, a weathered stone motel, shrouded by time and nature, stands as a relic of the past. Moss-covered steps and a roof reclaimed by the forest whisper tales of a bygone era. This forgotten gem is the Echo Valley Resort, once a vibrant hub on Johannesburg Lake. Now, nestled within
I came across an old structure in the quaint town of Sears, which is situated at the intersection of US-10 and M-66 in the heart of the Lower Peninsula. Initially, the town was called Orient, named after the township it belonged to. However, after the Flint & Pere Marquette Railroad established a depot there in
This historic structure is nestled in the quaint town of Old Mission, situated at the end of the Old Mission Peninsula close to Traverse City. I’m uncertain about its original purpose—perhaps it was once a store. It appears to have been unused for some time, yet it offers a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially on
Southeast of Fife Lake, along the scenic Manistee River, you’ll find a spot marked as “Rainbow Jim” on Google Maps. This is a popular boat access point off Coster Road. Not far from the launch was an old cabin, once home to Jim Coster III, a legendary fishing guide affectionately known as “Rainbow Jim.” Standing
Located along the River Road National Scenic Byway in the Huron National Forest, just west of Oscoda, Iargo Springs presents a stunning view of the Au Sable River. This site has served as an essential drinking water source long before European settlers arrived, with early loggers creating dams to channel water to their nearby camps.
A charming old fieldstone church is located along M-32, nestled between East Jordan and US-131. Constructed in 1890 by Bohemian immigrants, it was dedicated to Saint John Nepomucene, the patron saint of Czechoslovakia. Bohemia is a significant region in Czechoslovakia, and many of the early settlers in this northern Michigan area hailed from Prague. They
Located near the Bowers Harbor boat launch in Old Mission Peninsula is a charming pavilion that seems more at home in a picturesque park. This century-old structure, built in 1920, is a significant piece of Traverse City’s regional history. Originally serving as the Cherry Growers Weigh Station, it provided a convenient location for local farmers
Deadman’s Hill overlooks the Jordan River Valley and is located between Boyne Falls and Mancelona. While dead men tell no tales the sign next to the overlook tells the story of how the hill got its name and reads: The period of early logging in the Hills of the Jordan River Valley was marred by
To the north of Suttons Bay, near the casino along M-22, you’ll find an old wooden structure beside Belanger Creek. This historic mill was constructed in 1859 by Antoine Manseau. The creek was originally named Keywatosa Creek after a Native American Chief, Keywatosa. Manseau created a dam on the creek, built a 26-by-30-foot mill, and
Next to Washington Elementary School in Sault Ste Marie, is a stone statue with two small children. Around the base are the words: Water, Air, Soil and Protect. I could not find any info about it on the internet so I am hoping someone will share the story behind this statue. 2025 Lost In Michigan
