JAYMIE DEPEW

Many destinations around the world have resorted to virtual tourism opportunities as physical distancing restrictions are in place and the greater Munising area is no different.

The Munising Visitors Bureau recently launched an interactive web and mobile map that provides users with area information and various tours at the palm of their hands. Attractions, businesses, and the best trails in the Munising area are all featured in the app, along with general information. Want to learn about local lighthouses, waterfalls, and other landmarks? A few clicks and you’re there. It’s a great tool for discovering the area and to start planning your future adventure.

Perhaps the best feature of the mobile map is that it works when users are out of service – a common mishap while exploring in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Hiawatha National Forest. If you’re second guessing your whereabouts while exploring a snowmobile or hiking trail, pull up the map on your phone and it’ll show you exactly where you are. The map is available on both Android and Apple products – all you have to do is download the Map-N-Tour app (the company the Munising Visitors Bureau teamed up with to create the map) and search for the Pure Munising of Michigan tour. The web version can be found at www.munising.org/interactive-map-app/

The Alger County Chamber of Commerce and Munising Downtown Development Authority also provides virtual resources and materials for people interested in the area or planning a trip when they’re able to visit. Mobile directories are conveniently placed around downtown Munising for when they’ve arrived, as well. The directories have a QR code on them that when scanned with smart phones or tablets, give users all sorts of area information, maps included. That information can be found at algercountychamber.com/findithere

The Hiawatha National Forest also offers virtual tours through a mobile app. People can learn about lighthouses and heritage sites managed by the National Forest Service. The app also serves as a communication tool to receive the latest information and news about the national forest. Check it out at: https://hiawathanf.oncell.com/en/index.html

There are also virtual opportunities for kids. Kids can now become a Virtual Junior Ranger of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Once the young rangers have completed their “missions” – which are listed at www.nps.gov/piro/learn/kidsyouth/beajuniorranger.htm – they’ll receive a badge and certificate to print out.

Editor’s note: Jaymie Depew is the communications and special project assistant for the Alger County Chamber of Commerce/Greater Munising Bay Partnership for Commerce Development, Munising Downtown Development Authority and Munising Visitors Bureau.