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T here are many places in the area that probably are on people's "bucket list" to visit, such as the Eben Ice Caves, Sugarloaf Mountain and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just to name a few.
Hogback Mountain, located about 5 miles north of Marquette off of County Road 550, might be another spot on the list.
First of all, the mountain's correct name is Hogback, not Hogsback, but when people use the latter moniker, people know what they mean. Regardless of what people call it, people attempt to climb it.
Sugarloaf Mountain is located nearby, but it is much easier to summit. However, Hogback takes hikers on "narrow, twisty trails through woodlands, rock fields and swampy areas," according to Travel Marquette. "With a nearly vertical rock face that demands four points of contact, the last half-mile of the climb is quite strenuous."
When people make it to the top, though, they have a 360-degree of the gorgeous scenery, which probably makes all the effort worthwhile.
With summer upon us, many people visit notable natural places they'd be less likely to visit in cold weather, and Hogback might be one of them.
Dan Shanahan, chief of the Marquette Township Fire Department, at the July 19 township Board of Trustees meeting, talked about things people should keep in mind when visiting these spots.
One is to bring a cell phone.
"With that being said, not all these areas do have cell coverage, but you can always try texting 911," Shanahan said. "Sometimes that will go through."
He cautioned that it could be up to an hour to an hour and a half before rescue personnel can reach someone in need of help depending on the location.
People, then, might want to be proactive to avoid that scenario.
Most importantly, Shanahan suggested wearing the proper shoes.
"Flip flops are not encouraged," he said. "Dress accordingly. Bring water."
He had a special message for would-be Hogback hikers.
"To go to the top, only experienced hikers should go there," Shanahan said. "It's quite a hike and a little bit challenging."
It's also easy for people, especially for those who haven't been up there in awhile, to get turned around and become lost, he said, and even though there are markers at Hogback, they're hard to follow and are for different trails.
We're not saying people shouldn't try climbing Hogback Mountain or other challenging spots. They should, though, prepare for their treks accordingly.
Local police, sheriff and fire agencies stand ready to help people in trouble, but most people would agree that it's more enjoyable to hike than sit for a long time, waiting for assistance and maybe even wondering if it ever will come.
Being proactive in preparations also could also be a lifesaver.
Literally.