Ironwood, in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, lies nestled amid thousands of acres of forest and hundreds of miles of shoreline. Nature enthusiasts, history buffs and art lovers can find plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained year-round both outdoors and indoors. The hardest thing may be deciding what to do first.
Hit the Slopes
- Take to the snow-covered mountains or pathways in winter for a day on skis. With more than 2,000 miles of groomed trails winding through ancient forests, Ironwood was rated the No. 1 Reader’s Pick for best Midwest snowmobile destination in the September 2012 issue of “American Snowmobiler.”Copper Peak is home to the world’s largest ski jump at 26 stories and Mount Zion features 10 slopes and trails, along with a snow tubing park. Big Mountain Ski Resort in nearby Bessemer offers two terrain parks and trails for novice to experts.
Discover the History
- See the 52-foot-tall Hiawatha statue that looks north to Lake Superior and symbolizes unity and peace within the American Indian nations that joined the Iroquois Confederacy. Explore the Iron County Historical Museum and browse the collection of artifacts and pictures or watch as volunteers weave carpets on ancient looms. Tour the 1840s copper mine adit at Copper Peak to learn about the area’s mining history.
- Naturally Enchanting
- Walk along the shores of Little Girls Point in Ironwood Township and collect smooth, rounded rocks formed by Lake Superior’s waves, or go swimming, fishing or kayaking in the coldest Great Lake. Hike the trails at Black River Harbor for scenic views of waterfalls or enjoy white-water kayaking through the waters. Take in the forest as you bike the trails at Porcupine Mountains State Park and see additional waterfalls and Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Enjoy the Arts
- Built as a vaudeville and silent movie palace in 1928, the Historic Ironwood Theatre features shows and festivals throughout the year. Take in a live performance at Theatre North, one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the U.S. At Downtown Arts Place, stroll the gallery and view art by local and regional artists or browse two floors of pottery, jewelry and woodwork at Z Place Gallery & Cherry Ridge Framing.
