From long scenic trails to historic sites, here’s what you need to know about Michigan’s national parks.
Whether it’s zipping through a snowy forest on cross-country skis or “surfing” down sand dunes, Michigan’s six National Park Service-managed sites offer exciting activities and beautiful landscapes at any time of year. They are home to Great Lakes, beaches, scenic trails, and historical sites, including the country’s first copper mining boom and War of 1812 battles. Whether you crave a day in the great outdoors or want to explore American history, there’s a park (or two) for you. Here’s what to know about national parks in Michigan.
01. Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park is one of the country’s least-visited national parks, though its sparse number of visitors has nothing to do with its inherent beauty. This car-free national park can only be accessed by ferry or seaplane, and it’s only open from April 15 to November 1. Tucked into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and spanning 132,018 acres in the middle of Lake Superior, visitors can explore the park on foot, whether hiking by day or backpacking overnight. Kayaking is popular; however, the waters can be rough and cold. Accommodations include one-room cabins at Windigo Camper Cabins or the full-service Rock Harbor Lodge.
02. North Country National Scenic Trail
Michigan is among the eight states this 4,800-mile trail traverses from Vermont to North Dakota. Although not as prominent as the Pacific Crest Trail or the Appalachian Trail, it actually represents the longest of the National Scenic Trails. Users can engage in various activities such as hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The North Country Trail Association publishes trail alerts, maps, and news of outdoor events on its website. Uniquely, the Michigan section includes 550 miles in the Upper Peninsula and 600 miles in the Lower Peninsula, featuring picturesque farmland, lakes, and forests, particularly on the southern Michigan portion that stretches from the Kalamazoo/Berry county line to the Ohio/Michigan border.
03. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Whether in summer or winter, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy surfing or sledding down the 450-foot-tall sand dunes that give this park near Traverse City its name. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located on North Manitou Island, showcases the world’s largest collection of sand dunes along fresh water, snug against 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. With twenty miles of available trails, visitors can enjoy hiking in warmer months and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing after a snowfall. Swimming remains popular, as well as exploring the South Manitou Island Lighthouse and Port Oneida. Camping opportunities vary by season, with many sites, including the Manitou Islands available from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and options for winter camping at White Pine Backcountry Camp.
04. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
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While you can partake in the usual activities at this national park— hiking, camping, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing—you can also enjoy something unique: a shipwreck tour. Experience Lake Superior’s haunting shipwreck remains via glass-bottom boat or scuba diving. The park features 300-foot-tall sand dunes and the 15 miles of Pictured Rock Cliffs which display vibrant colors, making it a photographer’s delight. Additionally, you can visit three waterfalls including Miner Falls, Munising Falls, and Sable Falls. Autumn is an especially popular time to visit, as the fall foliage provides stunning views. The Au Sable Light Station, established in 1873-1874, offers breathtaking perspectives of the park from its tower.
05. Keweenaw National Historic Park
This Upper Peninsula park encompasses 21 historic sites in Calumet along the Keweenaw Peninsula, rich in American history. It hosts the world’s oldest and largest lava flow, and Native Americans began mining copper here roughly 7,000 years ago. Established in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush, this park serves as a historical area rather than a primary recreational space. Visitors can explore an early-1900s opera house that still hosts shows, a 45-room mansion from 1908, and four restored log cabins. Notable sites include the Delaware Copper Mine and the Finnish American Heritage Center & Historical Archive, which offers insights into local history and culture.
06. River Raisin National Battlefield Park
Similar to Keweenaw National Historic Park, River Raisin National Battlefield Park focuses on educating about the state’s history. Located only 35 miles from Detroit, it makes for a great day trip with its eight miles of paved trails. This site is unique as it is the only National Park Service unit dedicated to the War of 1812. The preserved monuments and cannons educate visitors about the River Raisin Battle of winter 1813, which significantly impacted the Native American populations in the region. The visitor center is set to unveil new exhibits, enhancing the educational experience for guests.
