Top 8 Reasons to Explore Michigan’s Stunning Upper Peninsula

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is known for its charming small towns enveloped by expansive forests, often cloaked in early morning fog during late summer. As you traverse the winding dirt roads, you may find that the number of cars you pass can be counted on one hand. Although this may sound like the perfect backdrop for a Stephen King novel, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers a stunning array of untouched natural beauty.

Places to Visit in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Initially, Michigan’s UP wasn’t on my travel radar. Although I admired its breathtaking beauty, as a vegan, I assumed the culinary scene would not accommodate my dietary needs. However, my perspective shifted dramatically when I opted for staycations and discovered the magnetism of mineral-stained cliffs and turquoise waters in Northern Michigan. I’m thankful I did, as the beauty I had overlooked all these years unfolded before me.

Even if you’re not an enthusiastic outdoor adventurer, the mesmerizing scenery will surely captivate you. Need more persuading? Here are 8 compelling reasons to visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Marvel at Michigan’s Largest Waterfall, Tahquamenon Falls

Regardless of whether you visit during the warm summer months, the vibrant colors of autumn, or the serene winter wonderland with trees blanketed in pristine snow, a trip to Tahquamenon Falls is essential. Nestled in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which is Michigan’s second-largest park, you’ll find the majestic Upper and Lower Falls. Locals fondly refer to the Upper Falls as “The Rootbeer Falls” due to the unique brown hue created by cedar tannins flowing into the water, resulting in a remarkable color that is unforgettable!

Tips for Visiting Tahquamenon Falls

While many visitors gravitate towards the Upper Falls first, if Tahquamenon is not your final destination, consider visiting the Lower Falls before making your way to the Upper Falls. A visit to the Lower Falls also allows you to rent a rowboat for a closer experience; rates are $7 per person or $20 per boat. For those who prefer to remain on land, numerous hiking and biking trails await, including a short half-mile trail leading to scenic overlooks and a more challenging 13-mile Rivermouth Trail. Regardless of your choice, there exists ample room for exploration! If you’re inclined to prolong your stay, consider opting for a rustic or modern campsite.

Enjoy One of Four National Lakeshores in the United States, Pictured Rocks

Famous for its rugged, colorful cliffs resembling the creative strokes of a toddler with a paintbrush, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The lakeshore spans 42 miles from Munising to Grand Marais, offering visitors over 100 miles of trails, 12 miles of pristine white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters, various sand dunes, and an incredible variety of wildlife, including black bears!

Curious about the stunning colors of the cliffs? The vibrant hues arise from deposits of iron, copper, manganese, and limonite blending with the groundwater streaming over the cliffs, producing exotic shades of orange, white, red, blue, and green. Consequently, these breathtaking formations have become a favorite subject for photography enthusiasts.

Cliff Dive in Presque Isle State Park

It’s important not to confuse this park with Presque Isle in Pennsylvania (always Google it in conjunction with Marquette), as this 323-acre park sits just outside downtown Marquette. The park appears as though it has remained untouched by humanity, largely thanks to Frederick Law Olmsted, who originally advised against altering it during his visit in the late 1800s.

Visitors can find solace in the park’s many trails or opt to bike along the 2-mile Peter White Drive loop, which encircles the park and leads through fragrant pine trees and thin birch groves. Every so often, the forest opens up to reveal the majestic Lake Superior.

However, the primary draw for visitors during the summer months is daredevil cliff diving from the park’s 10-15 foot black rock cliffs into the refreshing waters of Lake Superior. To uncover this unique experience, venture to the northern tip of the park, where, in peak summer, cars line the road. A small parking area is also available.

Even if you prefer not to take the leap, watching fellow thrill-seekers hesitate before ultimately taking the plunge can be quite entertaining!

Enjoy Lunch in the UP’s Largest Town, Marquette

After your excursion through Presque Isle Park, return to the delightful college town of Marquette. With a population of just over 20,000, it ranks as the UP’s largest town, one of the few spots where you can benefit from a welcoming small-town atmosphere while shopping at familiar stores for essential comforts.

The town boasts a diverse culinary scene, ranging from hearty pizza to fresh dishes sourced exclusively from local Michigan farms. I highly recommend visiting The Bodega—a LGBTQ-women-owned restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients and prepares all meals from scratch daily. Dining here is genuinely delightful! Their menu is clearly marked for vegan and gluten-free options, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. Don’t miss the tempting sweet potato-filled Que Pasa tacos.

Hike or Bike Until You Just Can’t Go Anymore

If you’re eager to engage in high-energy activities, the UP is an excellent choice! Michigan is becoming increasingly recognized as a “Trails State,” offering countless hiking and biking paths that wind through densely wooded forests and glide along sandstone cliffs beside Lake Superior.

Bike to Munising or Grand Island

If you prefer to explore by bike, head to Munising, where city officials have made significant efforts to establish numerous trailheads enticing bikers to venture out. These trails are conveniently situated near downtown Munising, but the adventure doesn’t end there—don’t miss the opportunity to hop on the Grand Island Ferry for $20. It leads you to rustic wilderness with 40 miles of trails to discover. Whether you’re looking for a casual ride or an exhilarating workout, the island’s 20-mile perimeter track is a great option.

For those of us who would rather explore on foot, there is an abundance of trail options with varying degrees of difficulty, many adorned with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and hidden beaches! Be sure to check out The Chapel Loop Trail in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette, and The Lake of Clouds in the Porcupine Mountains.

Kayak in Lake Superior’s Caribbean Blue Waters

The emerald and turquoise waters of Lake Superior invite visitors to take a dip! Not only is kayaking an enjoyable activity, but it’s also an exceptional way to view the magnificent Pictured Rocks.

If you’re an experienced kayaker, feel free to bring your own kayak; however, if you lack a kayak or are unsure of your paddling abilities, consider joining a guided tour. Guided tours in Pictured Rocks take paddlers past stunning sights such as Bridalveil Falls, Chapel Rock, Kissing Rock, and Lovers Leap Arch, among other breathtaking formations. These tours are relaxed in pace, lasting anywhere from two to six hours.

If you choose to paddle independently, remember to monitor small craft water advisories, as Lake Superior can quickly become turbulent! In such cases, starting from Sandpoint Beach and paddling to Grand Island is a good alternative, as the waters around the island are generally calmer, and it features beautiful painted cliffs as well.

Capture Beautiful Views from Sugarloaf Mountain

If you’re seeking stunning vistas without embarking on a lengthy hike, Sugarloaf Mountain is the perfect destination. The trailhead is located just minutes from downtown Marquette, featuring two trail options, both easy and challenging. However, they generally take about 15-20 minutes to complete, involving a fair amount of stair climbing.

The reward for your efforts upon reaching the summit is nothing short of astounding: on clear days, you can take in picturesque views of Lake Superior, Marquette, Presque Isle Park, Little Presque Isle, Hogsback Mountain, and the expansive forest between Marquette and Big Bay. It’s also a fantastic spot for witnessing the vibrant fall colors.

End Your Day with Spectacular Sunsets

For many city-dwellers, built-up environments often obscure the sunset, making it challenging to enjoy a clear view of the mesmerizing pink and orange sky. In contrast, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula provides countless miles of wide-open skies and waterways, making it an ideal location to unwind and appreciate the view.

Some of the top locations to catch the stunning sunset include Sandpoint Beach in Munising, Grand Sable Dunes in Pictured Rocks, Brockway Mountain Drive in Copper Harbor, and White Fish Point in Paradise.

These represent just eight compelling reasons to visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. If you’re in search of adventure, natural beauty, and a vibrant food scene, be sure to include Michigan on your travel itinerary.