By Steve Galea
In looking at Drummond Island from the De Tour ferry landing, it is easy to assume that it is like any other island off Michigan's Lake Huron coastline--sleepy, scenic, rugged, and remote.
A quick ferry ride changes this perception quickly. In short order,
June Jeep Jamboree participants will discover that while it is these things, it is also pleasantly exciting, accessible, adventure-filled, and packed with year-round fun. But in spite of all this, it just might be Michigan's best-kept secret.
The Drummond Islander ferry runs year-round on the hour or more frequently, depending on traffic. It can accommodate any vehicle you are likely to bring to the island. In peak tourist times, a second ferry is sometimes on hand. Because of this, Drummond is not only a destination, but a jumping-off point for forays into the whole Upper Peninsula.
Drummond can also be accessed from the island airport's 4,000-foot runway. The island, with approximately 150 miles of stony shoreline, is bigger than first sight suggests. It contains numerous protected bays where watching a secluded sunset remains in the realm of possibility. Or, consider the long stretches of dolomite beach, where the name of the game is catching a few rays, swimming, or picnicking.
For those who like to explore, there are nearly 90,000 acres of wilderness, over half of which is state owned. Add to that the appeal of dozens of satellite islands and forty inland lakes.
So with all this, where do you begin?
Well, you might want to start by touring the island in your vehicle. The roads--paved and dirt--are good and they lead you to a new scenic vista at almost every turn. Driving around the island is perhaps the first indication of the welcoming atmosphere. Everyone waves as they pass.
Wildlife, such as rabbit, ruffed grouse, coyote, bear and deer, ducks, geese, and shorebirds, are often seen in the fields, bays, and cedar and hardwood forests that these roads border. And if you stop in the small communities, you'll soon see that the island is almost self-sufficient. Everything you'd find in an Upper Peninsula town is within easy reach.
Depending on your preferred mode of transportation, you could explore the coast and outlying islands by powerboat, kayak, canoe, sailboat, or personal watercraft, all of which can be rented on the island. Boat charters and cruises can also be arranged while on Drummond, and divers and snorkelers can enjoy the sheltered bays. The Potagannissing River Dam is accessible to the public; trips up the river are always exciting, though a guide is recommended.
If inland exploration is your thing, there is a network of over 65 miles of All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) trails. Naturally, ATVs can be used to traverse these scenic pathways. But then, so can mountain bikes and good old hiking boots. Bikes can be rented for these healthy adventures.
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Aside from the ATV trails, there are hundreds of smaller, wilder trails that crisscross the cedar and hardwood stands. Wild mushrooms, morels, and berries are all over the island. And bring a field guide, as along the way you are likely to see the gamut of Drummond's wildlife: deer, bear, coyote, snowshoe hare, ruffed grouse, and assorted waterfowl.
There is also a very healthy avian population to keep birdwatchers happy. Over 200 varieties of songbirds, eagles, hawks, osprey, owls, and loon can be spotted on the island. Too, nature photographers will fall in love with the fauna, wildflowers, sunsets, early morning mists, and dramatic, delicate scenery.
The Maxton Plains, protected and partially owned by the Nature Conservancy, is home to many interesting and protected species of wildflowers. It is recognized as one of the world's best alvar regions, a unique landscape that is rare in the world. The area is best enjoyed with binoculars and camera, and vehicles are prohibited.
Fishing is a time-honored, year-round activity on Drummond. It starts with the ice fishing and spring perch run. At ice-out, panfishermen get in their boats and follow the schools of these jumbo perch. Then there's an island tradition--a weeklong smelt run begins around mid-April.
 After that, it all heats up. Anglers can tangle with big pike, bass, and walleye. Add cisco, salmon, rock bass, and sunfish, and you've got the picture. Come October, there's another perch run. And let's not forget the trout fishing within easy driving on the mainland, too.
As you can see, there are plenty of excuses for a "shore lunch." For a complete list of legal fishing seasons, check the Department of Natural Resources regulations.
It would be a sin not to mention the fine hunting on the island in the fall. Waterfowl, deer, ruffed grouse, woodcock, and rabbit will challenge the sportsman in habitat that represents some of the finest and wildest in the Upper Peninsula.
And Drummond is renowned as a snowmobiler's paradise. Over 100 miles of groomed trails penetrate the island, and a run across the ice bridge to Canada is one of many highlights. Snowmobile tours can even be arranged. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular winter activities. Many resorts are open to accommodate winter vacationers; the island doesn't shut down at the first snowflake.
And though all that fresh air and nature is fine, maybe a bit of "sport" would suit you better on occasion. Well, Drummond won't let you down. For the golfer in the gang, Drummond Island has the D.I. Township Course (9 holes) and The Rock Championship Course (18 holes.)
Or how about tennis? Courts can be reserved at the D.I. golf club. Bowling? It's there, too, at Woodmoor. Sporting Clays? You guessed it. The Cedars is an Orvis-endorsed facility where
guns and instruction are available.
So where do you stay?
Camping and recreational vehicle use is permitted at the Drummond Island Township Park. There are a host of accommodations and resorts available from beautiful log cabins to quaint cottages and everything in between. Call and you'll be greeted by friendly hosts who really want your business. But beware--Drummond may be habit forming.
To find out more, call The Drummond Island Tourist Association at 906-493-5245 or 800-737-8666, or write them at P.O. Box 200, Drummond Island, MI 49726. In addition, you can e-mail the Association at
drummond@sault.com or check out their Web site at
www.drummond-island.com/.
For more information on this and other Jeep Jamborees, please visit http://www.jeepunpaved.com/jamboree/index.asp
Photos by Steve Galea
Copyright © 2000 by Steve Galea. All rights reserved.
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