South Fox Island

A spectacular piece of land located in Northern Michigan, South Fox Island's 3300 acres feature more than 12 miles of sand and stone covered beaches, globally unique sand dunes, and over 50 miles of riding and hiking trails.

Flora and Fauna:

The Island 

Comprised of several habitats including active sand dunes, mature broadleaf forests and large fields, South Fox Island features a wide variety of habitats and species of trees, plant life and wildlife.  The majority of the trees are Beech, Maple, Birch and Cedar. Throughout the west side of the island blowholes contain Phantom trees – cedar trees that have been covered and uncovered by years of blowing sand. Several large cedar tree groves, dating 400+ years, are so large that it takes three people hand in hand to circle the trees.  Beautiful wild flowers are in abundance in the early summer, and many native Michigan orchids bloom from late spring to mid-summer.  Coyote, snakes, chipmunks and many species of birds enjoy free roam of the Island. 

Two lighthouses adorn the Island. The original lighthouse, constructed and operational in 1867, was originally a necessity due to the miles of shoals that extend from the southern tip of the Island.  The second tower was installed in 1934 in efforts to modernize the lighthouse.   

2001 Paved Runway

The grass runway built in 1991, and lengthened in 1995, was improved to a 5500 foot paved runway in 2001. Runway lights and a PAPI system were installed to ensure safety.  Completed in only three months, it took several years to meticulously plan the execution. In order to be as resourceful and efficient as possible, barge trips were carefully timed so each trip had equipment coming and going without idle equipment sitting.  The goal was to pave one entire length of the runway (5500 ft) plus 2000 feet in one day.  The first layer of asphalt was completed, with a jet landing on it by July 1, 2001.  By mid-August the road construction was completed and the building construction began.

Runway Construction:

Construction 2001-2003

Cutting edge technology was utilized in renovating the buildings. New roofs, doors and windows were installed to improve heating efficiency. A wood burning heating system was installed to utilize the downed trees on the island. In addition to using wood to heat the island, heat from the generators was collected and used as supplement heat. Sixteen 1000 gallon propane tanks were installed to increase efficiency and safety. The operations yard was revamped to accommodate new fuel tanks and fueling system.   

The Lodge:  The Stables:

Historical Island Clean Up

In constant dedication to be environmentally responsible, the island was cleared of hazardous trash left from the predecessors of South Fox Island.  The initial clean up began immediately and continues today.  In 2001 and 2002, several barge loads of trash collected on the island were removed and properly disposed.

Before Cleanup:   The Cleanup: