Miami, FL Nashville, TN New Hampshire Newport, RI Orlando, FL Palm Springs, CA San Antonio, TX Savannah, GA Smoky Mtns. Travel Michigan Nothing compares to the savory full-bodied taste of maple syrup. Made pure from the northern forests, this ambrosia, poured over a stack of golden hotcakes or homemade ice cream, makes a meal a special treat. Michigan ranks seventh in maple syrup production in the United States and many claim it's the finest and tastiest in the world. During the sugaring season, a visit to a sugarhouse will provide a look at the syrup-making process, the oldest agricultural enterprise in the nation.
Maple syrup is the first crop harvested in Michigan each year.
The season begins in February or March when cold nights are followed by warm days, causing the sap to move within the trees. Tapping occurs over a period of 6 to 10 weeks. Worden Farm in Beulah is one of the largest maple syrup producers in northwest Michigan. More than 2,600 trees are tapped and the sap processed to supply retailers across the state with the woodland crop. At the peak of the season, producers, like the Wordens, often work around the clock.