Copper Harbor is the north shore’s hidden gem. Stroll the harbor, explore Fort Wilkins, or catch a boat to Isle Royale. It’s peaceful, remote, and full of history and rugged charm.
Copper Harbor is the north shore’s hidden gem. Stroll the harbor, explore Fort Wilkins, or catch a boat to Isle Royale. It’s peaceful, remote, and full of history and rugged charm.
A short sidetrip from the Black Hills Tour is the mesmerizing rock formation, Devils Tower.
A place of intrigue and fascination even before it became the nation’s first National Monument. Native Americans celebrate what they know as “Bears Lodge” for its spiritual importance. Take a relatively easy walk around its base, or see longer views of the tower rising from the gentle rolling hills on other hiking trails.
Step back in time at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, a well-preserved 1844 army post established to protect the burgeoning copper mining industry of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Explore the original buildings, including officers’ quarters, barracks, a hospital, and a lighthouse on Copper Harbor. Living history programs during the summer months bring the fort’s past to life, offering insights into the daily lives of soldiers and their families. The park also offers stunning views of Copper Harbor and Lake Superior, combining historical significance with natural beauty.
Lake Superior is the ever-present backdrop to the Copper Country Trail. Watch waves crash, catch a pastel sunset, or simply breathe in the vastness of this inland sea.
Indulge in a unique and delicious experience at The Jampot, a monastery store run by the Poorrock Abbey monks. This quirky and beloved stop along the Keweenaw coast is famous for its homemade jams, fruitcakes, and other baked goods, all made with local ingredients and a touch of monastic tradition. Sample the delectable offerings and perhaps purchase some to take home as a tasty reminder of your Keweenaw adventure. The Jampot’s scenic location near Eagle Harbor and its reputation for quality treats make it a delightful and memorable stop on the Copper Country Trail.
Copper Harbor is the north shore’s hidden gem. Stroll the harbor, explore Fort Wilkins, or catch a boat to Isle Royale. It’s peaceful, remote, and full of history and rugged charm.
Delve into the rich history of copper mining at the Quincy Mine, a National Historic Landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Keweenaw’s industrial past. Take a guided tour deep into the mine shafts to experience the underground world where miners toiled to extract the valuable copper ore. Explore the surface buildings, including the iconic hoist house and learn about the innovative engineering and the challenging lives of the miners who shaped this region. The Quincy Mine provides a powerful and educational experience, bringing the story of the Copper Country to life.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore from the comfort of your vehicle on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. This 7.4-mile loop winds through beech-maple forests and sand dunes, offering numerous overlooks with stunning vistas of Lake Michigan, the Glen Lakes, and the Manitou Islands. Highlights include the iconic Lake Michigan Overlook with its dramatic 450-foot drop to the water and the serene North Bar Lake overlook.
Challenge yourself at the iconic Dune Climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! This popular attraction invites you to scale a massive, wind-swept sand dune, offering a fun and invigorating experience for all ages. Reaching the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Glen Lake and the surrounding landscape. While the full trek to Lake Michigan is strenuous, even a partial climb provides a memorable adventure and fantastic photo opportunities in this unique glacial landscape.
Head to the tip of the peninsula for wild beauty and lighthouse views. Leelanau State Park has beaches, trails, and the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse– perfect for hiking, stone hunting, and climbing to the top.
Challenge yourself at the iconic Dune Climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! This popular attraction invites you to scale a massive, wind-swept sand dune, offering a fun and invigorating experience for all ages. Reaching the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Glen Lake and the surrounding landscape. While the full trek to Lake Michigan is strenuous, even a partial climb provides a memorable adventure and fantastic photo opportunities in this unique glacial landscape.
Discover Traverse City, a vibrant hub of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty nestled on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. Known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” this charming city offers beautiful beaches, eclectic shops, renowned restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Explore the historic downtown, visit local breweries and wineries, or enjoy recreational activities on the bay. Traverse City provides a perfect blend of small-town charm and sophisticated amenities for every visitor.
Visit the iconic Point Betsie Lighthouse, one of Lake Michigan’s most photographed and historic beacons, located just south of Sleeping Bear Dunes. This beautifully restored lighthouse, with its striking white tower and red roof, has guided mariners since 1858. Explore the original keeper’s quarters, climb the tower for stunning views of the lake and coastline, and learn about the area’s rich maritime history. The surrounding beach is also perfect for a scenic stroll.
Hike through the serene Whaleback Natural Area, located just south of Leland on the Leelanau Peninsula. This 40-acre preserve features a prominent glacial moraine that resembles a whale’s back, offering easy to moderate trails through lush forests. Reaching the bluff provides spectacular views overlooking Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. It’s a peaceful spot for a refreshing walk, birdwatching, and appreciating the diverse natural landscapes sculpted by ancient glaciers.
Step back in time in historic Leland Fishtown, a remarkably preserved 19th-century fishing village nestled on the Leland River. Wander among weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, and docks that still bustle with commercial fishing activity. Browse unique shops and galleries housed in these historic structures, savor fresh local fish from the markets, or simply soak in the authentic maritime atmosphere of this charming and picturesque working waterfront, a true Michigan treasure.
Indulge your palate along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, a celebrated wine region boasting over 25 wineries nestled among rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Sample award-winning varietals like Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio, often with stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay or Lake Michigan. Many wineries offer unique tasting experiences, delicious food pairings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making this a delightful and flavorful part of your M-22 journey.
Prepare to be captivated at Inspiration Point, a breathtaking scenic overlook along the M-22 highway in Arcadia. Offering one of the most photographed vistas in the region, this stop provides stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan from high atop a bluff. On a clear day, you can see for miles, watching boats drift by and waves crash against the shore. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh lake air, and soak in the magnificent coastal scenery.
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary, home to one of the last remaining old-growth white pine forests in Michigan. Wander through towering stands of these majestic trees, some reaching hundreds of years old and soaring over 125 feet tall. The quiet trails winding through the sanctuary offer a sense of awe and tranquility as you walk among these giants. This natural area provides a glimpse into the primeval forests that once covered the region and offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and ecological importance of old-growth ecosystems.
Eagle River Waterfall is a quick but scenic stop where water tumbles over rocky ledges near town. The flow changes with the seasons, but the beauty stays year-round.
