Age Old Question Where Does “Up North” Begin?

The debate continues: Where Does "Up North" Begin? There are so many questions and so many theories.

The "Up North" starting point in Michigan is not specifically determined. I understand that "Up North" all starts at the Zilwaukee Bridge. Others say Mackinac Bridge, Grayling, North of Grand Rapids-Flint, and past the top of the Thumb.

Folks living in Northern Michigan generally consider it between Grayling and the Mackinac Bridge.

Michigan travelers that contend Up North is just the Upper Peninsula. 

It's not a wrong answer, but it's unrealistic for people living in Metro Detroit. Driving four hours north to Traverse City is definitely "going Up North."

The most common answer. The bridge that hums when you go over it and takes you from one place to another place. The Zilwaukee Bridge opened in 1987.

About 60 miles north of the Zilwaukee Bridge is West Branch. This city is a major stop on Up North trips because someone must always go to the bathroom. There are also some pretty cool restaurants in the area.

Can't miss all the billboards that suck you in on the way up north. As a kid it was a right of passage begging Mom & Dad, please can we stop, can we stop?

Located in Gaylord, MI, this family-run museum features various North American wildlife, plus a theater and gift shop. You will definitely be "Up North" if you stop in.

Passing the thumb in Michigan would qualify as an Up North marker. It could also be Houghton Lake, Sorry, Zilwaukee Bridge, and the Grand Rapids-Flint line.

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