During our wonderful road trip vacation of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this August we found ourselves in the delightful town of Marquette. While there we were told about Presque Isle Park, a very short drive from the center of Marquette.
One day we drove there, and were delighted with what we found. The park itself is big and you can drive your car through it or choose to walk the trails. We did both; getting out of the car when we felt like it. As we drove the path we noticed that there was a large group of cars pulled over on the side of the road so we stopped as well. Lots of cars pulled over, we have learned, is a sure sign in the UP that there is something worth taking a look at or exploring.
What we found was Black Rocks, a natural rock formation on the tip of Presque Isle Park, that is famous for cliff jumping. In fact I think it is almost a right of passage for Marquette residents to take the plunge at one time or another into the chilly Lake Superior.
On the day we were there, it was warm and sunny and we found many people jumping.
And then Jim’s adventurous nature got the best of him and….
Isn’t he crazy? I must admit I love this about him, his attitude to give almost anything a try.
He did say that the water was chilly, but that he was so glad that he did it. Apparently the water is quite deep at that spot, but as with any cliff jumping – do it at your own risk.
What a guy, and what a memory!
Later on that day we stopped at a shop specializing in Michigan made beer and wine and they had a t-shirt marking this rite of passage. We bought it!
Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt! Jumping off Black Rocks on Presque Isle – mark that one off the bucket list!
Check out the overhead view of Presque Isle and Black Rocks.
