The untamed wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula is a tourism haven between coastlines on lakes Superior and Michigan. It's the land of Longfellow's Hiawatha, where pristine landscapes still beckon those seeking adventure, recreation and play. Folks here, known as Yoopers, are hardy, friendly, ready and willing to share their natural and cultural resources with tourists.
Explore Legendary Parks
- Parks and preserves carved from the Upper Peninsula's rugged landscape inspire and challenge outdoor-loving visitors. Stretching along 40 miles of the south shore coast of Lake Superior between Munising and Grand Marais, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore showcases the region's diverse beauty. Its beaches, towering colored limestone cliffs and northern hardwood forests provide a dramatic setting for outdoor activities ranging from backpacking, biking and fishing to swimming, boating and camping. Situated in the northwest portion of Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park offers backcountry exploration. An International Biosphere Reserve, the park preserves 132,018 acres of federally designated wilderness. It encompasses a main island and 450 tiny isles where wolves and moose roam free. Access ferry transportation from Copper Harbor or Houghton to enjoy backpacking, boating, paddling and scuba diving within the park's remote wilds.
Discover Waterfall Wonders
- With 300 waterfalls, including one of the largest falls east of the Mississippi River, the Upper Peninsula is a wonderland of rushing, thundering blue. Most of the region's waterfalls require a hike to view, but with some nearly 50-foot drops, it's worth the effort. Tahquamenon Upper Falls at Tahquamenon State Park in Paradise, Michigan, reigns as waterfall king -- spanning 200 feet across and dropping almost 50 feet. The park's Lower Falls consist of five falls rushing around an island. While you can see these falls easily from the river banks, it's possible to rent a rowboat to explore the scene close up and feel the spray on your face. Visit waterfalls in spring when melting snows create maximum flow or in winter to climb frozen falls.
Enjoy Recreation and Cultural Experiences
- While the Upper Peninsula offers tourists remarkable nature-based recreation options, its more than 100 museums and historic sights provide a kaleidoscope of other experiences. The historic Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie connects visitors to the region's maritime legacy. Dating to the 1870s, the locks allow vessels to move between lakes Superior and Michigan and are a part of one of the largest and busiest waterway traffic systems in the world. Observe lock operations from the visitor center from mid-May to mid-October. Quincy Mine & Hoist, a Keweenaw Heritage Site in Hancock, unveils the history of area copper mining. Tours escort visitors a half-mile into the mountain to showcase the mining process. From slots, table games and tournaments to live entertainment and dining options, the Upper Peninsula's 10 casinos keep the excitement flowing indoors.
Rev Up Winter Play
- Upper Peninsula tourism doesn't come to a standstill when winter arrives. In fact, the region's residents and visitors make the most of the up to 200 inches of snow that descends annually. There are 3,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails to explore and hundreds of miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails to trek. There's ice fishing, ice skating and ice climbing and a dozen ski resorts, including Mount Bohemia at Houghton, where extreme skiing rules: At 900 feet, its vertical drop is the highest in the Midwest. Winter events also keep the good times rolling, such as February's UP200 Sled Dog Race in Marquette. The spectator-friendly event is one of the leading annual sled dog races in the lower 48 states and a qualifier for Alaska's Iditarod.
