Leelanau, an Indian word
meaning: "Delight of Life," certainly reflects what can be seen when
traveling this peninsula, one of Michigan’s gems. This name, suggested by
Henry Schoolcraft, Michigan’s Indian agent during the mid 1800’s, aptly fits
the feeling one gets when looking over the pristine waters, clear blue sky
and forested coastlines of Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan.
The lighthouse, at the peninsula’s northernmost point, was first constructed
in 1858 to guide freighters through the Manitou Passage, and marks the
entrance to the Grand Traverse Bay.
Leelanau County’s scenery is hard to beat: from the
Sleeping Bear Dunes, to inland Lake Leelanau, the calm waters of Omena and
Suttons Bays, there is plenty to do. Not to mention the cherry orchards, or
taking the summer ferry from Leland to North Manitou Island.
Leelanau County is truly a must-see for anyone who has an
interest in Michigan, no matter what season of the year.
