[michmoldman]

Here is some info on the River Rd. Scenic byway going along the Au-Sable river. This is some of the most beautiful scenery in Michigan. There are many places to stop and walk out on platforms or walk down huge stairways to the river. The best thing to do if you just wanted to just drive through, is head up 65 until it curves around, and keep going on the byway until you get to Oscoda, then you can continue north up 23. You can see this by clicking on the little star on the Michigan map, on the link I sent. I have been going to this area all my life, and the beauty NEVER gets old! Again, you will not be disappointed going here! Oh, and do not forget your camera!!!!!
River Road Scenic Byway

Here is just one awesome pic. of this area.

[YAZ]

I've canoed the Au Sable.

Oscoda is a cool town.

I'm kinda partial to Montmorency County though.

Atlanta, MI is my favorite little town.

[ShadowCaver]

YAZ - what specifically makes Montmorency County special to ya? Give me some specifics?

Again, thanks much to all for input... following is what I've gleaned so far from the suggestions [yea, I'm an engineer , and like to have a 'road map' and as much in-depth knowledge so can better prepare - spur of moment trips are great, and honestly preferred, but in this case I don't want to miss something of interest if will be in the area] - PLEASE add to this, insert pros/cons, additional suggestions/comments about what is here, what is NOT here. Again, thought is to go up to Sault Ste. Marie, go into Canada for bit, and then wander back down via different route - will have ~10 days; just a quick feel of the land and places, not much in-depth, more of a survey.

Also, any comments regarding best/worst times of year - due to insects, attractions, weather, etc. would be appreciated too. Thanks!

Absolute Michigan - Michigan News, Links & Photos
Hunts' Guide to Michigan's Upper Peninsula

http://www.castlerockcampark.com/
Michigan Park and Trail Map

Ludington State Park Detail
Ludington State Park - Visit Ludington, Michigan

River Road Scenic Byway
BeachTowns - Beaches - Pure Michigan Travel

The Official Website of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (U.S. National Park Service)
The Unofficial Sleeping Bear Dunes Homepage

Michigan Outdoors - Outdoor Recreation Guide - Hotels - Motels - Maps - Video - Michigan Interactive™ -
Monacle Lake Campground, Michigan
Monocle Lake - Michigan's Upper Peninsula
Monocle Lake Trail

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Au_Sable_River_(Michigan)
DNR - Au Sable River
Au Sable River Valley Online

Tawas Point State Park Detail
Tawas Point State Park, a Michigan State Park near Oscoda

North Higgins Lake State Park Detail
North Higgins Lake State Park - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Traverse City Michigan Visitors Bureau Vacations, Lodging, Accommodations and Attractions
Traverse City, Michigan - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Leelanau, Traverse City and Northern Michigan Vacation Rentals from Visit Up North Vacation Rentals

Brimley State Park Detail
Brimley State Park - Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Michigan Space Science Center :: Attractions :: Air Zoo
Chrysler Jeep Superstores Thunder Over Michigan - Air Show - Yankee Air Museum

Paradise Michigan Attractions - Tahquamenon Falls, Shipwreck Mus
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park and Campground, Upper Peninsula of Michigan
DNR - Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Sault Ste. Marie Michigan Historic Sites, Museums, Group Tours
Steam Back into History - Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau

Montmorency County, Michigan

[michmoldman]

Of course while your in Sault Ste Marie you have to check out the locks, hopefully you'll catch a big freighter.
And if you can spare a few hours I would check out Whitefish point and the Tehquamenon falls while your relatively close. Standing on Whitefish point and looking out to where the Edmund F. went down is a pretty amazing feeling that will stay with you for a long time. The drive alone from the Soo to Whitefish point/Tahquamenon falls is well worth it!! I know these were mentioned by others to check out while your up there, and I also highly recommend them also.

[mofromcheboygankalamazoo]

If you are going down 23 then i recommend my favorite place to swim on a VERY HOT day Ocqueoc Falls....small waterfalls that have a perfect little swimming hole......it is a lot of fun as a kid, but also as an adult!!
http://gowaterfalling.com/waterfalls...queocfalls.jpg

Michigan Waterfalls Ocqueoc Falls Pres Queisle County Michigan Interactive

you of course can swim in lower tahquamenon falls as well.....but ocqueoc is off the beaten path......and very fun...

here are some more ideas
Northern Michigan Attractions

here is a great site about the sunrise side of michigan!! i'm partial to cheboygan of course...
Michigan's Sunrise Side Travel Association

there are always festivals going on in the summertime along with county fairs....let us know when you decide on going and we'll all recommend our favorite festivals