Nestled between three Great Lakes, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula – affectionately known as the UP – is a paradise waiting to be explored. This vast wilderness area perfectly blends natural wonders, rich history, and small-town charm.
So, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the UP has something special in store for you.
Marvel at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Imagine kayaking alongside towering, multicolored cliffs that seem to change hues with the sunlight. Pictured Rocks offers just that, with its stunning sandstone formations stretching for miles along Lake Superior.
Feel the Power of Tahquamenon Falls
The ‘Root Beer Falls,’ as locals sometimes call it, is a sight to behold. The rust-colored water of the Upper Falls thunders down 50 feet, creating a misty spectacle that’s truly awe-inspiring.
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Step Back in Time on Mackinac Island
Where else can you find a place that’s banned cars for over a century? Mackinac Island gives a glimpse into a simpler time, complete with horse-drawn carriages and world-famous fudge.
Embrace Winter at Mount Bohemia
Skiing enthusiasts, take note. Mount Bohemia isn’t your average Midwest ski resort. With ungroomed runs and plenty of powder, it’s a secret gem for those seeking a real challenge.
Marvel at Engineering at the Soo Locks
Watching a massive freighter squeeze through the Soo Locks is like seeing a ship in a bathtub. It’s an engineering feat that never fails to impress, no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
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Hike the Porcupine Mountains
Known affectionately as the ‘Porkies,’ this wilderness area offers a choose-your-own-adventure experience. From old-growth forests to stunning Lake Superior views, there’s a trail for every type of hiker.
Dive into Maritime History at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
The Great Lakes have claimed many ships over the years, and their stories are preserved here. The tale of Edmund Fitzgerald is just one of many that will capture your imagination.
Ride the Copper Harbor Trails
Mountain bikers, rejoice! Copper Harbor’s trails give some of the best riding experiences in the Midwest. With Lake Superior as a backdrop, even a wipeout comes with a view.
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Go Underground at Keweenaw National Historical Park
Ever wondered what it was like to be a copper miner? Here’s your chance to find out. The park offers a fascinating look into the UP’s mining heritage.
See Pictured Rocks from Water Level
While the view from above is spectacular, seeing Pictured Rocks at eye level is a whole different experience. Kayaking here reveals hidden caves and secluded beaches you can’t see from land.
Stargaze at Headlands International Dark Sky Park
In a world where true darkness is becoming rare, Headlands offers a chance to see the night sky in all its glory. On a good night, you might even catch the Northern Lights.
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Cast a Line in the Great Lakes
Whether you’re after salmon, trout, or the elusive musky, the UP’s waters are an angler’s paradise. Just remember, the fish here are good at hook avoidance.
Explore the Iron Industry Museum
Who knew iron could be so interesting? This museum brings the UP’s iron mining history to life, offering insights into an industry that shaped the region.
Trek the North Country Trail
For those with wanderlust, the North Country Trail offers endless possibilities. Whether you hike for a day or a week, you’re bound to find some unforgettable views.
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Visit a Ghost Town at Fayette Historic State Park
Step into a 19th-century iron smelting town frozen in time. It’s like walking onto a movie set, but everything’s real – including the stunning Lake Michigan backdrop.
Snowmobile the UP’s Vast Trail System
When winter blankets the UP, it transforms into a snowmobiler’s dream. With thousands of miles of groomed trails, you could ride for days and never see the same scenery twice.
Spot Wildlife at Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Birdwatchers and nature lovers, this one’s for you. Seney offers a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Be on the lookout for everything from sandhill cranes to black bears.
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Experience Small-Town Americana at the UP State Fair
Funnel cakes, carnival rides, and prize-winning livestock – the UP State Fair in Escanaba has it all. It’s a slice of pure Americana that shouldn’t be missed.
Discover Presque Isle Park in Marquette
This little peninsula packs a big punch. With its rugged shoreline and forested trails, it’s a microcosm of the UP’s natural beauty, right on the edge of the UP’s largest city.
Walk Among Giants at Estivant Pines
Want to feel really small? Stand next to a 300-year-old white pine in Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary. These ancient trees have stood witness to centuries of UP history.
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Descend into History at Quincy Mine
Hop on a cog-wheel tram and descend into the depths of a real copper mine. It’s a cool (literally) way to experience the UP’s mining heritage firsthand.
Paddle the Hiawatha Water Trail
For those who love to be on the water, the Hiawatha Water Trail offers 120 miles of Lake Superior shoreline to explore. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with more paddling.
Find Solitude in Sylvania Wilderness
If peace and quiet are what you’re after, Sylvania Wilderness delivers. With its crystal-clear lakes and old-growth forests, it’s a perfect spot for canoeing, fishing, or simply soaking in the silence.
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Peer into Kitch-iti-kipi
‘The Big Spring’ is like nature’s own aquarium. The crystal-clear water offers a window into an underwater world, complete with huge trout that seem to hover in place.
Drive the Keweenaw Peninsula Scenic Byway
End your UP adventure with a drive along this 47-mile scenic route. It’s like a greatest hits tour of the Keweenaw Peninsula, showcasing everything from historic towns to stunning Lake Superior vistas.
The UP: A World Apart
From breathtaking natural wonders to fascinating historical sites, the UP packs a lot into its pristine wilderness. It’s a place where you can stand atop ancient rock formations in the morning and descend into century-old mines in the afternoon.
The UP isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you for a very long time.
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