Northern Michigan Has a Surprising History of Western-Style Dude Ranches

If you think about a 'dude ranch' you will almost certainly think of somewhere out west, remote and dusty. You may not think about Michigan's Upper Peninsula, but surprisingly there are historic dude ranches in the UP.

The best known is likely Happy Hank's/Double H Ranch in Brevort near the shores of Lake Michigan north of St Ignace in Mackinac County.

Checking out this historic image of Happy Hank's from the 1940s, you would likely not place that image from Michigan.

READ MORE: The Northernmost Spot in Michigan's Lower Peninsula is in Mackinaw City - But Where Exactly?

The story of Happy Hank's was that was a tourist destination rather than a working dude ranch. Being so near to the Straits of Mackinac and the 'Water Winter Wonderland' that is Northern Michigan, the family behind Hank's sought to give visitors the feel of ranch life with the slogan of 'c'mon and horse around.'

The question about Upper Peninsula dude ranches came up recently on Reddit when the question was asked by someone whose grandparents met at Happy Hanks.

Get our free mobile app

The Double H Ranch gave many fond vacation memories. These have been shared on a Facebook page dedicated to the memory of the ranch:

This was the best vacation place I ever went. I see my brother is in some of the pictures. He worked there for many summers and you would know him as Jeg. I had so many wonderful times there. If it was still open I would be going every year. Miss this place so much.

I truly miss this place I now have kids and would love to share similar memories! Talent night, riding. Great friendly people every time we went.

There are still active vacation getaway dude ranches in the state including the Double J in Rothbury and Wolf Lake Ranch in Baldwin.

Sadly, the Double H has become a part of Michigan's past. It will always be part of the state's long and cherished history of roadside attractions.