Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
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Multicolored sandstone cliffs tower 200 feet above the clear, bone-chilling waters of Lake Superior at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, one of Michigan's most spectacular hidden gems. Glide silently under isolated stone arches in a kayak, or take in the wild beauty of the shoreline from a tour boat. When the waves rise on the notoriously unpredictable lake, explore the area on 111 miles of trails, or check out one of the six large inland lakes. Getting to this remote northern shore of Michigan takes time—Detroit sits 400 miles south—but your journey is rewarded by pristine forest campsites, hidden beaches, spectacular sunsets over Lake Superior, and some of the best paddling in the Great Lakes. Come in the fall to see the clifftop trees blaze with red and orange leaves, and return in winter to walk through fairy-tale ice caves that sparkle in the sunlight.
Things To Do Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in a remote part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the rugged Lake Superior landscape. Boating is the best way to experience the park; you'll find rentals and tours in the small town of Munising. Hiking, biking, fishing, and camping opportunities abound, providing endless ways to explore the forests and discover untouched rock beaches.
Hiking Trails
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Chapel Loop Trail
If you're interested in seeing the Pictured Rocks from land, the Chapel Loop Trail is your best bet. It's the only trail in the park that enables you to get a good view of the cliffs; you can do so on the section that runs from Chapel Beach to Mosquito Beach. You'll also pass the gorgeous Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and Mosquito Falls. This hike travels along exposed parts of the cliff, so it's important to wear sturdy footwear and take great caution with children.
Location
Chapel Basin parking lot
Length
10 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Miners Castle Overlook Trail
If you're short on time, the Miners Castle Overlook Trail is a quick and easy trek that's suitable for everyone in your group. The short path provides a view of the beautiful Miner's Castle rock formation, impossibly clear water, and a small, horseshoe-shaped beach. The entire trail is about 0.25 miles and includes three different viewing points, but you can stop at the first observation deck for a shorter walk. This hike is particularly beautiful at sunset.
Location
Miners Castle parking lot
Length
0.25 miles
Intensity
Easy
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Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach Trail
Hike to one of the most bizarre rock formations at Pictured Rocks on the Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach Trail. The trail, which you can complete in a few hours, takes you to the white-sand Chapel Beach. In July and August, the water is usually warm enough for swimming. At the end of the beach stands Chapel Rock, a dramatically eroded cliff topped with a single tree. Return the way you came or complete the loop on the other side of Chapel Lake. Make sure to start this hike early in the summer as the parking lot fills up quickly.
Location
Chapel Basin parking lot
Length
6.2 miles round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Superior Overlook
Get a beautiful view of Lake Superior at the Superior Overlook. A short, 50-foot path leads to the overlook; it's wooden and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. If you want to stick around, you can take the stairs down to the beach. The North Country Trail passes through the parking lot, so you might see long-haul hikers.
Location
County Rd H-58, Grand Marais, MI 49839
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Scenic Boat Tour
If you do only one thing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, make it a scenic boat tour. The National Park Service runs tours through Pictured Rocks Cruises, Inc.; they leave from Munising and take about 2.5 hours. Along the way, you'll get a fantastic view of the colorful cliffs while the tour leader offers a commentary about the geology and history of the region. Tours usually run from the middle of May to the middle of October. Other local outfitters run shipwreck tours in glass-bottom boats, kayak tours, and more.
Location
100 City Park Dr, Munising, MI 49862
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Sand Point Beach
Enjoy a view of Lake Superior while you relax at Sand Point Beach. In the summer, locals and visitors come to sunbathe and swim in the lake; the water is shallow and calm, so it's great for families—it's also warmer than many other beaches, making it more comfortable for swimming. Nearby, you can walk through the Sand Point Marsh. Make sure to stick around for sunset.
Location
Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862
Museums
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Pictured Rocks Interpretive Center
Part gift shop, part museum, the Pictured Rocks Interpretive Center offers a quick overview of the local area. Learn about the geology of the rock cliffs, check out stunning landscapes, and examine historic photos.
Location
100 W Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Muldoons Pasties & Gifts
Charming and compact, Muldoons Pasties & Gifts is a great place to stop before heading to your campsite. Pick up a Lake Superior mug and a few pasties to enjoy by the campfire.
Location
1246 M-28, Munising, MI 49862
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Pictured Rocks Trading Company
Tucked on a quiet street west of Munising, the Pictured Rocks Trading Company is a lovely place to pick up a souvenir from your trip. While you're there, head to the ice cream counter to get a treat for the road.
Location
E10401, County Rd H-58, Christmas, MI 49862
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Das Gift Haus
With a broad selection of T-shirts, art, coffee mugs, and more, Das Gift Haus has something for everyone. Make sure to check out the selection of games and wine to upgrade your camping trip.
Location
202 E Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862
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Eh! Burger
Eh! Burger is a cute, casual spot to pick up burgers and other quick bites. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy a locally crafted beer with your meal.
Location
101 W Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862
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Rollin' Smoke Barbeque
Come hungry to Rollin' Smoke Barbeque; with their barbecued chicken, beef, and pork, you'll want to try one of everything. If you're in a group, the family packs are a great deal.
Location
106 Lynn St, Munising, MI 49862
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Driftwood Deli
Known for its fantastic sandwiches and soups, the Driftwood Deli is the ideal stop for a relaxing lunch. Many meals come with a side of delicious, seasoned pretzels and dip.
Location
231 E Superior St, Munising, MI 49862
How To Get To Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan near the small town of Munising. To get there from Lower Michigan, take I-75 north to St. Ignace and head west on U.S. 2. Turn north on MI-77 at Blaney Park and head west on MI-28 at Seney. From the eastern part of the Upper Peninsula, take U.S. 41 to Marquette and turn east on MI-28.
Address
1505 Sand Point Road, Munising, MI 49862
Fee: Entry fee $0
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a haven of untouched natural beauty. Whether you explore the legendary lakeshore from the water or on one of the park's hiking trails, you'll be rewarded with stunning views and friendly people. Since the lake-effect weather can be unpredictable any time of year, an RV is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors and get a great night's sleep in any conditions.
