Boon: Forest, Trails and Railroad History

Boon combines a distinctive forest setting with a local history tied to railroad construction. More than half of Boon lies within the Manistee National Forest. At the same time, the town was established in 1889, as construction of the Ann Arbor Railroad progressed through central Wexford County. The railroad’s construction led to a significant increase in trade in Boon. Forests, trails and local cheese-making traditions add further travel interests to this history.

Forests, Rivers and Trails

The Manistee National Forest around Boon is considered predominantly rural and forested. Boon is surrounded by rivers and connected by them; hiking trails also connect the area. The forest cover shapes the scale of the landscape, while rivers and trails offer further ways to experience nature. For travel planning, this means nature-focused interests can center on the forest setting or on getting out along the trails, rather than being reduced to a single theme. The Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail (MCCCT) is a named route that runs through Boon Township. Boon Township Park has a playground. For families with children, this offers a specific additional point of interest, distinct from simply taking in the scenery.

The Railroad in Boon’s History

The year 1889 marks more than Boon’s founding: the town was established then, as construction of the Ann Arbor Railroad progressed through central Wexford County. Railroad construction led to a significant increase in trade in Boon. This links the town’s founding to a specific local economic consequence and makes the railroad relevant to its history, not merely a date. Those interested in the development of small towns can see a clear connection between railroad construction, Boon’s founding and trade. This historical perspective offers a distinct reason to visit alongside the natural setting.

Cheese-Making Tradition in Boon Township

Boon Township is home to the Boon Country Store, whose history dates back well over 100 years. It is considered the oldest continuously operating cheese shop in Northern Michigan and possibly in the entire state of Michigan. At the store, cheese is still wrapped in butcher paper and tied with string. Numerous antiques on display give it the atmosphere of a general store museum. The wrapping practice is part of the store’s present-day operations, while the antiques create a historic atmosphere. Together, they bring local food culture and history together in a tangible example.

Choose Boon as Your Destination

When choosing a vacation rental or vacation home, it helps to think about Boon in terms of the focus you want for your trip. Those mainly seeking scenery and outdoor activity will see the forests, rivers and trails as the main draw; those who appreciate local history and food culture will find a different focus in the railroad past and cheese shop. You can combine both types of travel, but the emphasis will determine which theme you use as a starting point for your search. This lets you begin looking for accommodation by asking which experiences you want to shape your stay.

Discover more destinations: Harrietta, Cadillac.

Return to the broader travel overview: Wexford County.