Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is a little gem in Northern Michigan, not far the charming little tourist town of Harbor Springs. From downtown Harbor Springs, go north on M-119 a little less than 4 miles to Lower Shore Drive and follow the signs. If this end of the road is still closed, go north an additional four miles on M-119 and follow the signs. (M-119 from Harbor Springs to Cross Village is one of the prettiest drives in Michigan and well worth your time.)

Showy Ladyslipper

Thorne Swift has several nature trails that take you through forests, swamps and to the rocky beach. There are almost always several  interesting flowers in bloom from spring through fall. The Showy Ladyslippers usually bloom for a couple of weeks around the 4th of July.  I found a nice bunch when I was there July 1 (2004).

Depending on the time of year, there will be interesting mosses and ferns to photograph. There are insects to photograph too (you will probably want insect repellant for the occasional mosquito encounter). You might see some wildlife if you stay in one place, keep quiet and come when not too many other people are there (early on a weekday is best). When you are done taking pictures in the deep woods, you can head for the beach, catch some sun, and photograph some flowers and the lakeshore.