In the heart of Roscommon, Michigan, Higgins Lake challenges both thrill-seekers and casual adventurers to the annual Poker Run—a lively competition that turns the lake into your playing field. More than a simple race, this event combines speed, strategy, and the raw energy of Michigan’s clear, cold waters.

The Poker Run stretches across Higgins Lake’s 9,900 acres, a vast body of water that dares you to test your boating skill and endurance. Competitors navigate between designated checkpoints where they collect playing cards, building their best poker hand while skimming across waves that push forward like silent challengers. Whether in a speedboat or jet ski, the run is a dance with the lake’s unpredictable currents and sudden gusts, forcing every move to be precise and swift.

Though the lake itself is the arena, the event’s backdrop is equally compelling: thick pine forests lean toward the shore, their scent mingling with the fresh, brisk air. The shoreline, often dotted with spectators and fellow lake lovers, buzzes with excitement and shared anticipation. From sunrise to afternoon, the light shifts across the water’s planes—an evolving set of colors and reflections that boaters and photographers alike will want to catch.

Key to success on this run is preparation. Know your checkpoints, plan your route for speed and safety, and keep hydration close—water on a boat can become a scarce luxury under the summer sun. Footwear matters less on the water, but supportive, secure shoes are essential for pre-run staging and any lakeside exploration afterward. The lake’s surface, though mostly smooth, occasionally ripples with waves that demand constant attention, a reminder that this is nature moving fiercely in its own rhythm.

Timing your run during the Michigan summer months—June through August—offers warm waters and longer daylight but carries the risk of congested waters and sudden storms. Early morning starts can reward calmer seas and clearer skies, providing the perfect stage for both competition and celebration.

In the end, the Higgins Lake Poker Run isn’t just about winning cards; it’s about engaging with the lake’s force, respecting its swift moods, and sharing an adventurous spirit among a community of water lovers. Whether you’re after speed, scenic views, or the simple joy of paddling through pristine Michigan waters, Higgins Lake rewards those who meet it squarely, confidently, and with a touch of strategy.