Freshwater seas, flowing rivers and waterfalls, natural wilderness and more are all right outside our front doors. We should consider ourselves lucky, seeing as we’re the ones who live where others choose to vacation.

It’s that time of year again, when our grass is greener, the skies are bluer and visitors from all around flock to the Upper Peninsula to retreat from their everyday lives. The summertime here in the U.P. is a time we can all breathe a little easier, relax a little longer and enjoy life at a season when time seems to move at a slower pace.

Most would agree that tourism in the U.P., and elsewhere in Michigan, has seen some pretty steady growth over the last few years. And speaking of growth — and congestion — Marquette’s Presque Isle Park is no stranger to that issue either.

Black Rocks, situated at the northwest part of Presque Isle, is a popular spot in the summer. The dark cliffs, from where people leap into Lake Superior, have become a part of the city’s identity, with the jump into the big lake considered by some to be a rite of passage for tourists and people who have recently moved to the area.

Again, with that popularity comes an increased number of vehicles jockeying for the few parking spots there.

Due to safety concerns and ensuring access to the area by emergency vehicles, the city has taken steps over the years to improve the situation by restricting parking on Peter White Drive, the roadway that goes around Presque Isle.

Safety is always a concern, and we must all do our part to make sure these places and others like them remain areas we can all visit and enjoy without the worry of causing harm to others.

Be mindful of where you park your vehicle and slow down if it’s busy or congested. Remember, time here during the U.P.’s summer season moves at a slower pace, and you should too.