Fall is the Best Time of Year for Wooden Boats

Northern Michigan is buzzing with activity from June through August. The area swells with visitors eager to reunite with old friends to spend long days on the water and in the woods. But as families return home for the school year, a slower pace of life begins for those who stay Up North. Each community becomes much quieter, the days are shorter, and the air is crisp.

Leaves can begin changing color as early as the final weeks of August. By October, the forests of northern Michigan are aglow with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. With no shortage of crystal clear inland lakes, it’s easy to take in the spectacular scenery by getting on the water. While many would consider summer to be peak boating season, I find that the cooler days of fall are truly the best, especially for wooden boats on Walloon Lake. The water is generally calmer this time of year, with less crowded waterways providing a tranquil setting for an afternoon outside. In fact, those who visit Walloon Lake in September and October will find that most of the sounds you hear are the low hum of wooden motorboats going by.

A passion for classic wooden boats was handed down to me by my father. I grew up spending countless hours on his Chris Craft, getting to know every distinct section of Walloon Lake. Today, celebrating these exemplary watercraft is a way for me to carry on his legacy and stay connected to him. First built in Algonac, Michigan, the Chris Craft flourished from the 1920s through the 50s, until fiberglass became all the rage. In my opinion, there is no comparison when it comes to the elegance and craftsmanship found in a classic wooden boat. And they’re just so much fun to drive! Because it’s not about getting from Point A to Point B: time spent on the water in a wooden boat is entirely about leisure and simply enjoying oneself. That shouldn’t be limited to only the summer months. 

So whether you live here full time or only visit a few weekends in the fall, I encourage you to make a point of spending some autumnal days out on Walloon Lake. The stunning foliage is beautifully reflected in the water and you’ll likely be able to zip across from one arm to the next with few obstacles in the way. Pack a picnic, set the anchor, and let the minutes pass by without worry. You’re sure to have an unforgettable boating experience that is wonderfully unique to northern Michigan.