Discovering Grand Marais: UP200, Saunas, and Small-Town Hospitality

Episode Summary: In our very first episode, we dive into the charm and adventures of Grand Marais, Michigan, with Robin and Bill Scully, who share their journey from below the bridge to life in the North Woods. Our conversation covers topics from the local dog sled race UP200, the life-changing decision to retire in the Upper Peninsula (UP), to the joy and challenges of managing a vacation rental in a remote town. You will learn about the area's up and coming music scene, local wildlife, and unique community efforts like shared cross-country skis and a local guy who delivers pharmacy prescriptions. We also talk about the allure of local cuisine, buying a sauna, and the sheer beauty of natural attractions like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This episode captures the serene yet adventurous life in Grand Marais, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.Topics Covered:* The UP200 Dog Sled Race: Bill’s firsthand experience helping mushers and their teams navigate road crossings, community gatherings, and the camaraderie surrounding the event.* Moving to the UP: Robin and Bill’s journey from Manchester, MI, to Grand Marais, their first experiences crossing the Mackinac Bridge, and the small-town charm that drew them in.* Lake Superior Brewing Company: The history of Grand Marais’ iconic brewery and Robin’s role in keeping the good times flowing.* A Music-Lover’s Haven: How Robin launched a summer concert series featuring a variety of musical styles, from folk to Delta blues, in a stunning lakeside setting.* Living in the UP Year-Round: The challenges and joys of experiencing all four seasons, including deep snow, encounters with wildlife, and the unique quirks of small-town life.* Hosting a Vacation Rental in Grand Marais: The surprises and lessons learned from managing a vacation rental in a remote location.* Saunas and Snowbanks: The inspiration behind installing a traditional Finnish sauna at their rental property and how it enhances the UP experience.* Best Eats in the UP: Robin and Bill’s top recommendations for foodies, including fresh whitefish, smoked fish, and hidden gem restaurants.* Life in the North Woods: What it truly means to live immersed in nature, from foraging and wildlife encounters to experiencing the peace and solitude of the UP.Mentioned in This Episode:* Lake Superior Brewing Company* Mothfire Brewing Co.* UP200 Dog Sled Race* Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore* Grand Marais* Grand Marais Music Series* Grand Marais Music Festival* Strega Nona (Negaunee, MI)* Fitzgerald’s Restaurant (Eagle River, MI)* Cap’n Ron’s (Munising, Mi)* Shawn Howard - WHS Fishery (Munising, Mi)* Frazier’s Fish House (Epoufette, Mi)* Gustafson’s Smoked Fish (Sunoco Gas Station on US-2)* Jim Harrison* North Country Opera* North Country Trail* Mount Bohemia Nordic SpaConnect with Robin & Bill:* Grand Marais Airbnb Listing - VRBO Listing - FacebookFollow Life in Michigan:* Website: lifeinmichigan.com* Instagram: @lifeinmich* Facebook: @lifeinmichigan* Substack: [email protected] & Subscribe: Find Life in Michigan Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to give us a 5-star rating and share, share, share!Enjoy the episode and get inspired to explore the beauty and culture of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!Photo Credits: Sauna (Robin Scully) Gustafson’s (Brenda Marshall) Northern Lights (Robin Scully) Log Slide Overlook (Chuck Marshall) Get full access to Life In Michigan at lifeinmichigan.substack.com/subscribe