2070 project

Two friends embark on a trip to Marquette, Michigan, and are pleasantly surprised by its beauty and outdoor activities. They hike Sugarloaf Mountain and explore Prest Isle Park, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Despite some mishaps and detours, they make the most of their time and create lasting memories. The trip strengthens their friendship and leaves them with a renewed appreciation for life's simple joys. Traveling has always been a source of joy and excitement for many, and the opportunity to embark on a journey to Marquette, Michigan, with my best friend, was nothing short of a dream come true. Just off the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette offers a picturesque landscape, rich history, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it the perfect destination for a memorable getaway. As we arrived in Marquette, the crisp, fresh air instantly invigorated our spirits. One thing we were not expecting was the snow. We were so surprised to see a blanket of white over such a beautiful place, but somehow it enhanced the beauty of the landscape. On our first day there, we arrived just before bedtime. The only exploring we had done was search on DoorDash for some dinner. We ended up finding the best chocolate cake I have ever had, which I think is an achievement due to the fact that I was at a wedding venue and his handful of chocolate cake. Marquette's natural beauty beckoned us to indulge in outdoor adventures and we eagerly embraced the opportunity. The day started with a scenic hike on Sugarloaf Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior and a gorgeous sunrise, with the wind blowing very gently. The rugged cliffs and pristine waters painted a picture of untouched wilderness, providing a stark contrast to our suburban lives. In the afternoon, we explored Prest Isle Park, a gem located on a peninsula jutting into the village. The park's winding trails led us through lush forests and rocky shores, providing a perfect compact route for a leisurely walk. As we strolled along, we discovered hidden coves and serene spots, making us appreciate the tranquility of nature. Unfortunately, we only got to see the scenic views of the Upper Peninsula for three days before needing to head home. However, our final day was easily the most memorable one. We started by checking out the hotel and running to check out the downtown area, mainly because I needed coffee. We stopped at a place called Contrast Coffee. This place had the typical aromas and hustle of a cafe in the city. And this place served me the best latte I've ever had thus far. As we were driving home, we ended up making several stops. Alyssa and I are the kind of people that can make an eight-hour trip into a day and a half. I only know that because we did, during this trip. We stopped at numerous spots, adding time, starting with a sculpture park called Waken Land. She and I both now refer to this as an acid trip of a place, despite the fact that she and I have never done any drug of the sort. We filled the woods containing sculptures with our laughter. We stopped at Picture Drops National Lakeshore for some hiking and taking in scenic views. As we were driving along, Alyssa spotted a sign that said, The Big Spring. She made me see how far away this mysterious place was. The GPS said it was only 45 minutes away, but it felt so much longer. We were driving down these dirt roads in a compact SUV while I was repeatedly saying, I think this is how a criminal mindset story started. Despite my beliefs, we survived. After that, we decided to go see a lighthouse, which continued my theory of being a victim and having a Netflix documentary regarding our unsolved deaths. Despite that theory as well, we drove an hour to one lighthouse just to find out it was closed. We were so determined, we ended up driving another two hours to the oldest lighthouse in the state of Michigan. I would like to say that was our last excursion, but it wasn't. Our trip to Marquette was more than just a vacation. It was a shared experience that strengthened the bond between my best friend and I. The town's natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming community left a mark on our heart. As we bid farewell to Marquette and the Upper Peninsula as a whole, we carry with us not just those memories of a great trip, but also a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of life and the importance of sharing them with those we hold close to us.