As often as I’ve been in this part of Michigan, I’ve never climbed the stairs at Mt. Baldy. 282 stairs to be precise. The feat is rated as the #1 Saugatuck attraction by Trip Advisor. At the top of the stairs, the panoramic view is of the Kalamazoo River, Lake Michigan, sand dunes, and the woods. It’s definitely a tranquil peak but getting there takes some work.
I went with James, Bill and Shawn. I wisely suggested that they not worry about me. I was going to go at my own pace. This proved an essential move. From my vantage point, they sprinted up. I took it 20 or so steps at a time to the regular landings. These sitting areas were well-placed perches. I took the opportunity to bask in the view at every level. Not only was it beautiful, I needed the opportunity to suck air. I was panting like a crazy person. On my breaks, I met and re-met a couple from Naperville. We took turns passing each other. When I finally made it to the top and was breathing normally, James snapped this selfie.
We got the exercise done early. We spent the rest of the day poolside… lounging, drinking and eating. It’s good to have friends with nice vacation homes.