Government Island LbNA #24147

The term "Les Cheneaux," (pronounced "Lay-Shen-O") roughly translated from the original French, is "the channels." Bordering the northern edge of Lake Huron along the southeastern lip of the Michigan Upper Peninsula (known endearingly as the UP), these "channels" are actually a 36-island archipelago arrayed along Lake Huron east of St. Ignace. These diverse islands, a few as small as a residential lot in the Detroit suburbs, are testament to the last glacial retreat from the Great Lakes some 12,000 years ago.

This box is located on an island. There is a boat launch for small boats in Cedarville, about a half a mile south of the blinking light. If you don’t have your own boat, you will need to begin this search by visiting Hills Point Resort (open between May and October). Hill Island Drive is 18.2 miles from I-75 on M134. Turn right onto the street and continue over the “bridge” onto Hill Island. The water is very close to the road at this point and you may very well spot loons, ducks and swans in the reeds. At the turn in the road is Hills Point Resort. Turn in and park immediately to the right, by the office.

Charlie Henry recently purchased Hills Point Resort and has maintained the charm and character of the cabins. It is truly a step back in time when visiting these cabins - back to the days when a trip to the upper peninsula meant a ferry boat across the straits of Machinac. Today their wide beach is the vacation spot for fishermen and families alike. You will need water transportation to find this box. Charlie and his dock master, Brian rent boats or kayaks for a small fee. If the day is slow and the water is calm, Brian himself may be willing to ferry you to your destination. Located along the same stretch of beach is Hills Point Docking, owned and maintained by Max and Mary Otto. Their son-in-law Scott is managing the rental of their boats and kayaks. You have two great options for finding transportation, should you need it. Secure your transportation and have them direct you to Government Island (a map might also be helpful). If kayaking, this treasure hunt may take most of the day but it is a beautiful way to spend the day.

Government Island is a park owned and operated by Haiwatha National Forest with picnic areas and camp sites. There are no homes but there are restroom facilities. For further information regarding camping go to www.hunts-upguide.com. or contact the Haiwatha National Forest at 906-643-7900.

From the beach on Government Bay, find the posted sign with information about the island. Near this sign are a group of picnic tables just into the woods. From there, take the path to the right which will lead you to a strip of beach on a secluded bay overlooking Lake Huron. (An easy twenty minute walk with water shoes or hiking shoes). The path to the left is considerably longer (one to two hours) and is a good idea if you are planning to camp on the island.

Looking at the secluded bay, on the right side facing the lake is a large boulder completely surrounded by water. Wade (or walk through the grass) to this rock. On the edge of the shore is a large peach colored rock. Six paces from this rock towards the woods is rock from the same family. Near this rock is the box.

Please be sure to reseal baggies and the box carefully so it will stay dry during the cold winter and replace carefully, completely hidden from view.