Discover the Most Scenic and Thrilling Hikes in Michigan's Upper Peninsula - A Nature Lover's Paradise!

Discover the beauty of Upper Peninsula with the best hikes! From Pictured Rocks to Porcupine Mountains, explore the stunning scenery of Michigan.

Are you ready for an adventure? Look no further than the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, home to some of the best hikes in the Midwest. With over 4,000 miles of hiking trails, there is no shortage of options for all skill levels and interests. From scenic waterfalls to towering cliffs, the Upper Peninsula has it all. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these hikes will take your breath away. So grab your backpack and let's explore!

First on our list is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This stunning park boasts 100 miles of trails along Lake Superior's shoreline, offering breathtaking views of towering sandstone cliffs and crystal clear water. One of the most popular hikes is the Chapel Loop, a 10-mile trail that takes you through lush forests and past several waterfalls. Be sure to bring your camera for this one!

If you're looking for a challenge, head to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The park's rugged terrain offers some of the most challenging hikes in the Upper Peninsula, including the Escarpment Trail, a 10-mile trek that takes you along the rocky ridgeline of the Porcupine Mountains. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort.

For a more leisurely hike, check out Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park is home to two gorgeous waterfalls, the Upper and Lower Falls, which can be viewed from several hiking trails. The River Trail is a popular choice, offering a peaceful stroll through the forest along the banks of the Tahquamenon River.

Another must-see destination is Isle Royale National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane. This remote island paradise offers over 165 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

For a unique hiking experience, head to Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan's largest freshwater spring. The self-guided trail takes you over the spring's crystal clear waters on a floating observation raft, giving you an up-close look at the colorful underwater landscape.

If you're looking for a hike with a bit of history, visit Fort Wilkins State Park. The park's trails take you through historic military sites, including an 1844 military outpost and a restored lighthouse. The park also offers scenic views of Lake Fanny Hooe and Copper Harbor.

One of the most scenic hikes in the Upper Peninsula is the North Country Trail, which spans over 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. The Michigan section of the trail covers over 1,100 miles, offering stunning views of forests, lakes, and rivers. The trail also passes through several charming small towns, making it a great option for a multi-day hike.

If you're a fan of waterfalls, don't miss Bond Falls in Ontonagon County. The falls can be viewed from a short trail leading to several observation decks, offering stunning views of the cascading water. Be sure to bring your camera for this one!

Another waterfall worth visiting is Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park. The park's namesake waterfall is a stunning 100-foot cascade that can be viewed from a short trail leading to several observation platforms. The park also features several other smaller waterfalls and a peaceful picnic area.

Last but not least is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. While technically located in the Lower Peninsula, this park's stunning sand dunes and crystal clear waters make it a must-visit destination for any hiker. The park's Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers a scenic hike through forests and fields, with stunning views of Lake Michigan along the way.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the Upper Peninsula has something for everyone. From stunning waterfalls to challenging backcountry treks, these hikes are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and hit the trails!

Introduction

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a hiker’s paradise. With its rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and miles of pristine shoreline, it’s no wonder that the UP has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, there are plenty of trails to suit your needs. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best hikes in the Upper Peninsula.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a 42-mile stretch of Lake Superior shoreline that boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Upper Peninsula. The park offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. Some of the most popular trails include the Chapel Loop, which takes you past several waterfalls, and the North Country Trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Superior.

Chapel Loop

The Chapel Loop is a 10.4-mile trail that takes you past some of Pictured Rocks’ most iconic landmarks, including Chapel Rock and Chapel Falls. The trail is rated as moderate, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forest and open meadows, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

North Country Trail

The North Country Trail is a 42-mile trail that winds through the heart of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The trail offers stunning views of Lake Superior and takes you through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along rocky cliffs. While the entire trail is challenging, there are several shorter sections that are more manageable for beginners.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is the largest state park in Michigan and offers over 90 miles of hiking trails. The park is known for its rugged terrain, old-growth forests, and stunning waterfalls. Some of the most popular trails include the Escarpment Trail, which offers panoramic views of Lake Superior, and the Presque Isle River Trail, which takes you past several picturesque waterfalls.

Escarpment Trail

The Escarpment Trail is a 4.4-mile trail that offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains. The trail is rated as moderate, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests and open meadows, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Presque Isle River Trail

The Presque Isle River Trail is a 1.2-mile trail that takes you past several picturesque waterfalls, including Manabezho Falls and Manido Falls. The trail is rated as easy, with a flat and well-maintained path. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests and along the banks of the Presque Isle River.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The park offers over 40 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. Some of the most popular trails include the River Trail, which takes you past the Lower Falls and along the Tahquamenon River, and the Wilderness Trail, which offers stunning views of the Upper Falls and Lake Superior.

River Trail

The River Trail is a 4.2-mile trail that takes you past the Lower Falls and along the Tahquamenon River. The trail is rated as easy, with a flat and well-maintained path. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests and open meadows, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Wilderness Trail

The Wilderness Trail is a 4-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Upper Falls and Lake Superior. The trail is rated as moderate, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests and along rocky cliffs, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is a remote wilderness area located in Lake Superior. The park is accessible only by boat or seaplane and offers over 165 miles of hiking trails. The park is known for its rugged terrain, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife. Some of the most popular trails include the Greenstone Ridge Trail, which takes you through the heart of the island, and the Minong Ridge Trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Superior.

Greenstone Ridge Trail

The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a 40-mile trail that takes you through the heart of Isle Royale National Park. The trail is rated as challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass through pristine forests and along rocky ridges, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Minong Ridge Trail

The Minong Ridge Trail is a 28-mile trail that offers stunning views of Lake Superior. The trail is rated as challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests and along rocky ridges, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan has something for everyone. From the rugged coastline of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to the remote wilderness of Isle Royale National Park, the UP offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. So grab your hiking boots and hit the trails – adventure awaits!
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a treasure trove of natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for hiking enthusiasts. From waterfalls to lakes, cliffs to gorges, the region boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails in the country. In this article, we will explore the best hikes in the Upper Peninsula, including Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Isle Royale National Park, Hiawatha National Forest, Sugarloaf Mountain, Dead River Falls, Chapel Basin Loop, Craig Lake State Park, and Grand Island National Recreation Area.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Hiking to the Stunning Waterfalls and Cliffs

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination for hikers looking for stunning waterfalls and cliffs. The park is located along the shores of Lake Superior and features over 100 miles of hiking trails. One of the most popular hikes is the Chapel Basin Loop, which offers breathtaking views of the park's iconic sandstone cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The trail is 10 miles long and takes about 5-7 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers can also enjoy the serene beauty of Chapel Lake.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Exploring the North Country Trail and River Trails

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a beautiful park that offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of hikers. The park is home to the North Country Trail, a 4,600-mile trail that stretches from New York to North Dakota. The trail runs through the park and offers hikers stunning views of the Tahquamenon River and its two waterfalls. The park also has several river trails that allow hikers to explore the park's vast wetlands and forests.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Trekking the Escarpment Trail and Lake of the Clouds

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is one of the most rugged and scenic parks in the Upper Peninsula. The park features over 90 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Escarpment Trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. The trail is 5.2 miles long and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. Another popular hike in the park is the Lake of the Clouds Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the park's iconic lake.

Isle Royale National Park: Hiking the Scenic Trails and Observing Wildlife

Isle Royale National Park is a remote and wild park that offers some of the best hiking trails in the Upper Peninsula. The park is located on an island in Lake Superior and features over 165 miles of hiking trails. Hikers can explore the park's rugged terrain and observe the abundant wildlife, including moose, wolves, and bald eagles. The park also has several backcountry campsites, allowing hikers to spend multiple days exploring the park's hidden gems.

Hiawatha National Forest: Discovering Hidden Waterfalls and Lakes on the North Country Trail

Hiawatha National Forest is a beautiful forest that offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of hikers. The park is home to the North Country Trail, which runs through the park and offers hikers stunning views of the region's hidden waterfalls and lakes. The park also has several other trails, including the Chapel Rock Trail, which leads hikers to a stunning rock formation overlooking Lake Superior.

Sugarloaf Mountain: Climbing the Scenic Viewpoint for a Panoramic View of Lake Superior

Sugarloaf Mountain is a popular destination for hikers looking for stunning views of Lake Superior. The mountain is located in Marquette and offers a short but steep hike to the top. The trail is less than a mile long and takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. At the top, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.

Dead River Falls: Adventuring through the Waterfalls and Gorges of Marquette

Dead River Falls is a beautiful series of waterfalls and gorges located in Marquette. The falls offer a variety of hiking trails that allow hikers to explore the area's rugged terrain and natural beauty. The trails vary in difficulty, making it a great destination for hikers of all levels.

Chapel Basin Loop: Hiking the Iconic Trail of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Chapel Basin Loop is one of the most iconic trails in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The trail offers hikers stunning views of the park's sandstone cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The trail is 10 miles long and takes about 5-7 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers can also enjoy the serene beauty of Chapel Lake.

Craig Lake State Park: Backpacking through the Remote Wilderness and Lakes

Craig Lake State Park is a remote and wild park that offers some of the best backpacking trips in the Upper Peninsula. The park features several backcountry campsites that can only be accessed by hiking or paddling. The park is home to several lakes, including Craig Lake, which is the largest wilderness lake in Michigan.

Grand Island National Recreation Area: Hiking through the Island's Forests and Sandstone Cliffs

Grand Island National Recreation Area is a beautiful island located in Lake Superior. The island offers a variety of hiking trails that allow hikers to explore the island's forests and sandstone cliffs. The island is also home to several historical sites, including the East Channel Lighthouse and the Grand Island Cemetery.In conclusion, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the country. From waterfalls to lakes, cliffs to gorges, the region has something for every hiker. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's a trail for you in the Upper Peninsula. So, grab your hiking boots and explore the natural beauty of this amazing region!

Exploring the Best Hikes in the Upper Peninsula

The Pros and Cons of Hiking in the Upper Peninsula

There are numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature in the Upper Peninsula. However, before embarking on a hiking adventure, it is important to consider the pros and cons of hiking in this region.

Pros:

The Upper Peninsula offers diverse terrain, ranging from rolling hills to rocky cliffs and waterfalls, ensuring that every hike is unique and exciting.
The wilderness areas in the Upper Peninsula are relatively unspoiled, providing hikers with an authentic outdoor experience.
The Upper Peninsula is home to a variety of wildlife species, including black bears, moose, and white-tailed deer, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
The region is known for its abundant natural resources, including fresh water lakes, rivers, and streams, making it easy to stay hydrated and cool during hikes.

Cons:

The weather in the Upper Peninsula can be unpredictable, with sudden storms and temperature changes, so hikers need to be prepared with appropriate gear and clothing.
Some hiking trails may be challenging for beginners or those with physical limitations.
Cell phone service may be limited or non-existent in some areas, so hikers should have a map or GPS device to avoid getting lost.
Wildlife encounters may be thrilling, but also potentially dangerous, so hikers should take precautions and know how to react in case of an encounter.

Comparison Table of the Best Hikes in the Upper Peninsula

Here is a comparison table of some of the best hiking trails in the Upper Peninsula:

Trail Name	Length (Miles)	Difficulty Level	Scenic Views
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore	42	Moderate	Waterfalls, cliffs, beaches, and rock formations
Porkies Mountains Wilderness State Park	90	Difficult	Mountain views, waterfalls, and old-growth forest
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore	13	Moderate	Lake Michigan shoreline, sand dunes, and forests
Tahquamenon Falls State Park	10	Moderate	Waterfalls, river views, and forested trails

Regardless of which trail you choose, hiking in the Upper Peninsula offers a chance to experience some of the most beautiful and untouched natural areas in the country.

The Best Hikes in the Upper Peninsula

As you come to the end of this article, we hope you have found inspiration to explore the incredible wilderness of the Upper Peninsula. From waterfalls and lush forests to rugged cliffs and breathtaking vistas, there is no shortage of natural wonder to discover. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just beginning your outdoor adventures, the Upper Peninsula has something for everyone.

One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trail, which offers stunning views of the sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior. The trail runs for over 40 miles and can be tackled in sections, with plenty of campsites for overnight stays along the way. Be sure to stop at the famous Chapel Rock and take a dip in the refreshing waters of Mosquito Falls.

If you are looking for a more challenging hike, head to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Here you will find a network of trails that wind through old-growth forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to scenic overlooks. The park's highest point, Summit Peak, offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.

For those seeking solitude and remote wilderness, the North Country Trail is a must-do. This 4,600-mile trail spans seven states, including Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and offers a diverse range of terrain and scenery. Hikers can choose from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring historic sites.

Another hidden gem of the Upper Peninsula is Isle Royale National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park's rugged landscape includes dense forests, rocky shores, and crystal-clear lakes. Hikers can explore over 165 miles of trails, including the famous Greenstone Ridge Trail, which runs the length of the island and offers stunning views of Lake Superior.

For those who prefer a shorter hike but still want to experience the beauty of the Upper Peninsula, head to Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park is home to two waterfalls, the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls, which are some of the largest falls east of the Mississippi River. The 4-mile-long River Trail is an easy hike that takes visitors past both falls and through lush forests.

If you are looking for an adventure off the beaten path, consider hiking the Huron Mountains. This remote range is located in the heart of the Upper Peninsula and offers challenging hiking opportunities with stunning panoramic views. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, wolves, and moose.

No matter where you choose to hike in the Upper Peninsula, be sure to come prepared with proper gear, food, and water. Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out, and let someone know where you will be hiking and when you plan to return. Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment.

In conclusion, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a hiker's paradise, with endless opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the country. Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the region offers something for every level of hiker. So why not grab your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and head out to experience the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula for yourself?

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best hikes in the Upper Peninsula. We hope you have found it informative and inspiring. Happy hiking!