St. Helen, MI

St. Helen is a small unincorporated community located in Richfield Township, in the northern part of Roscommon County, Michigan, United States. The history of St. Helen dates back to the late 1800s.

In the early years, St. Helen was primarily a lumbering town. The area was heavily forested and attracted many lumber companies, which brought a significant number of jobs to the community. The abundance of timber allowed for the construction of sawmills and logging operations.

The St. Helen Lumber Company was one of the major logging companies in the area. It operated a large sawmill and provided employment and economic vitality to the community. The company not only logged the timber but also transported it through the St. Helen Railroad and used it for various purposes, such as construction, furniture making, and paper manufacturing.

With the decline of the timber industry in the early 1900s, St. Helen needed to find new sources of economic growth. The area turned its focus to tourism, as its natural beauty attracted visitors from across the state. The abundance of lakes and recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, boating, and camping, made St. Helen a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

To accommodate the growing tourism industry, several resorts, lodges, and cottages were established around St. Helen. These establishments appealed to tourists looking to enjoy the natural resources and attractions of the area.

St. Helen continued to develop and grow throughout the 20th century. In 1980, the St. Helen DNR Field Office was established, which further cemented St. Helen's reputation as a destination for outdoor activities. The office provides services related to hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and forestry management.

Today, St. Helen remains a popular summer and winter destination for outdoor activities. The area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities continue to attract visitors and contribute to the local economy. St. Helen also serves as a residential community for those who appreciate the tranquility and natural surroundings of the northern Michigan region.

Saint Helen Area Historical Society

This is a great place to explore the county's history and learn about the local heritage through exhibits, artifacts, and informative displays.

Huron-Manistee National Forest

Explore the beautiful natural landscape of the Huron-Manistee National Forest, where you can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Saint Helen Motorsport Area

This off-road vehicle park offers a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. You can ride ATVs, dirt bikes, or jeeps on designated trails and enjoy the adrenaline rush.

Houghton Lake

Located just a short drive from St. Helen, Houghton Lake offers a variety of water-based activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and jet skiing. It is the largest inland lake in Michigan.

Saint Helen Power Dam

This historic landmark showcases the region's hydroelectric power. You can visit the dam and appreciate the local engineering and energy production.

St. Helen U.S. Army Airfield

A former military airfield during World War II, this site now serves as the St. Helen Airport. Aviation enthusiasts can visit and learn about its history.

Canoeing and Kayaking

The nearby Au Sable River is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. Enjoy a peaceful and scenic paddle down the river, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Historic Downtown Roscommon

Just a short drive away from St. Helen, the historic downtown of Roscommon offers charming shops, restaurants, and a vibrant local atmosphere.

North Higgins Lake State Park

Located on the shores of Higgins Lake, this state park offers swimming, boating, picnicking, and camping. It's a wonderful place for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Golfing

Several golf courses are situated in and around St. Helen, providing opportunities for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round of golf amidst the picturesque surroundings.

The climate of St. Helen, MI, is classified as a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Here are some details about the climate of St. Helen:

Summers

St. Helen experiences warm and relatively humid summers. The average high temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27-30°C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach into the 90s°F (32-35°C). Summer is the rainiest season, with moderate rainfall and occasional thunderstorms.

Winters

Winters in St. Helen are cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the mid-teens°F (-9 to -6°C) to the low 30s°F (-1 to 0°C). However, temperatures can drop below zero (-18°C) during severe cold waves. Snowfall is common, with an average annual snowfall of about 70 inches (178 cm).

Spring and Fall

These transitional seasons in St. Helen are relatively short but can bring unpredictable weather conditions. Spring starts off chilly in March but gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from the 30s°F (around 0°C) to the 60s°F (15-20°C) by May. Fall begins with mild temperatures in September, ranging from the 60s°F (around 15°C) to the 70s°F (around 25°C), and gradually cools down, with temperatures dropping into the 40s°F (4-9°C) by November.

Precipitation

St. Helen receives an average of about 34 inches (86 cm) of precipitation annually. The highest rainfall occurs during the summer months, while winter brings snowfall accumulation.

Humidity

The relative humidity in St. Helen varies throughout the year. Summers can be relatively humid due to the proximity of the Great Lakes. However, humidity levels drop significantly during the winter months.

It is important to note that these climate conditions are based on general averages and St. Helen, like many other places, can experience variations and extreme weather events from time to time.

St. Helen is a small unincorporated community located in Roscommon County, Michigan. While it may not have officially defined neighborhoods, there are a few distinct areas within and around St. Helen that offer different experiences and amenities. Here are some notable areas:

St. Helen Village

This is the central part of St. Helen, where you'll find local businesses, restaurants, and services. The village features a small-town charm and is the hub of the community's activities.

Lake St. Helen

The community surrounds the beautiful Lake St. Helen, a 2,400-acre lake that attracts locals and visitors alike. The lake offers various recreational activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Properties along the lakeshore provide scenic views and access to the water, making it a desirable place to live or visit.

Richfield Township

St. Helen is located in Richfield Township, which encompasses the surrounding area. The township offers primarily rural and residential areas, with a mix of year-round residents and seasonal homes.

Federal Forest Lands

Bordering St. Helen, you'll find expansive forests and federal lands, including the Huron National Forest. These areas offer outdoor enthusiasts ample opportunities for hiking, camping, hunting, and exploring nature.

Residential Developments

There are several residential developments and neighborhoods scattered throughout St. Helen and its surroundings. Most offer a mix of permanent and vacation homes, catering to different budgets and lifestyles.

Overall, St. Helen and its surrounding areas provide a peaceful and scenic setting, with access to water activities, forests, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Whether you prefer lakeside living, rural areas, or proximity to a small village, there are different options for you to choose from.