Join the editorial staff, special guests and your fellow readers of Traverse Magazine for an exclusive sneak peek of the upcoming September 2018 issue.

Please limit RSVPs to 2 per registration.

Casual, fun networking in nearby Elk Rapids for a summer cocktail special from Ethanology's talented and incredibly creative mixologists, featured in the issue. Editor Emily Tyra will raise a glass to our readers and share some stories behind-the-stories alongside other members of the Traverse team.

Special Guest Reading by Local Writer Aaron Stander, featured on our cover, who has published nine murder mysteries set in Northern Michigan. He is also the author of numerous articles, stories, poems, and reviews and the longtime host/producer of Michigan Writers on the Air at Interlochen Public Radio. Cash bar specials and appetizers available. Gift Bags for the first 25 Guests.

Here are just some of the inspiring stories and photography we've put together for September ... the local Secret Summer of chill vibes, warm lakes and great escapes.

Retrace a Whodunit Thriller in Leelanau (Cover Story) -- a beloved northern Michigan mystery writer sets his mystery series in Leelanau and Benzie. Head out on a self-guided road trip and sightseeing adventure, with plenty of plot twists (read: fun pit stops along the way).

Follow Northern Michigan’s Newest Tasting Tour -- what makes a day sipping craft cocktails and local brews while you take in breathtaking Torch Lake-area views even better? Meeting the craft beverage artisans along the way.

Weekend Getaway on Beaver Island -- catch a boat to Lake Michigan’s most remote inhabited isle. Our own Elizabeth Edwards shares how to do it up right when you have 3 precious days on island time.

Paddle On -- choose your own kayak adventure with our ultimate how-to plus inspiring imagery from adventure photographer Erik Olsen. Pick a river—lazy to advanced—and then paddle like no one’s watching.

Dining and Drink -- our Juiciest Picks Yet. Tim Tebeau’s fave roadside farm stands for corn, heirloom tomatoes, stone fruits and more PLUS IPAs to Try: North Peak’s Diabolical, Right Brain’s Spinal Tapper and Beard’s Brewery Owlmadillo.

Local Foodie -- the Best Ever Brunch Board. Pick up a beautiful, flaky smoked salmon from Cross Fisheries, Charlevoix and build a DIY bagel bar.

Hike, Brunch and Beach It (in the Tip of the Mitt) -- we point your toes toward woods and boardwalks to travel and miles of soft sandy lake Michigan beach to sink them into after (with a homemade doughnut or two in between). Could there be a more sublime Up North day?

September Reads -- the best books and stories hand-picked for your beach bag and hammock.