Michigan: A Guide to the Upper Peninsula
Getting There:
By Car: The UP is accessible by car from the Lower Peninsula via the Mackinac Bridge or by driving through Wisconsin.
By Air: The Sawyer International Airport near Marquette offers flights from major cities.
When to Visit:
Each season offers its own unique charm and experiences, making the Upper Peninsula a destination worth visiting year-round!
SPRING:
* Wildflowers and Waterfalls: Spring is a great time to see the stunning waterfalls in full flow, surrounded by blooming wildflowers.
* Milder Weather: Temperatures start to warm up, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
* Fewer Crowds: Spring is typically less crowded than summer, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
SUMMER:
* Warm Weather: Perfect for swimming, boating, and other water activities in the Great Lakes or smaller inland lakes.
* Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, biking, fishing, and camping are popular activities with the long daylight hours.
* Festivals and Events: Summer is the season for various festivals and events celebrating local culture, music, and food.
AUTUMN:
* Spectacular Fall Colors: The Upper Peninsula is known for its stunning fall foliage, especially in late September to early October.
* Less Crowded: While fall color tourism is popular, it's generally less crowded than summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
* Harvest Season: Visit local farms and markets for fresh produce and seasonal treats.
WINTER:
* Winter Sports: The Upper Peninsula is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with excellent skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
* Northern Lights: The dark, clear winter nights offer a chance to see the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
* Cozy Atmosphere: Enjoy the coziness of winter with warm cabins, crackling fires, and hot cocoa.
Places to Visit:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Explore the colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches along Lake Superior. Don't miss the famous Chapel Rock and Miner's Castle.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Visit the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls, known for their amber-colored water, especially beautiful in the fall.
Mackinac Island: Take a ferry to this charming island with no cars allowed. Explore historic Fort Mackinac, bike around the island, and indulge in famous fudge.
Keweenaw Peninsula: Discover historic copper mining sites, lighthouses, and scenic drives along Lake Superior.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Hike through old-growth forests, see the Lake of the Clouds overlook, and enjoy camping and wildlife viewing.
Marquette: Explore this vibrant city with its museums, breweries, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking on Lake Superior.
Outdoor Activities:
* Hiking: The UP offers numerous trails, including the North Country Trail and trails in Porcupine Mountains and Pictured Rocks.
* Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the Great Lakes and inland lakes.
* Fishing: The UP is known for excellent fishing, especially for trout and salmon.
* Winter Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are popular in the winter months.
Cultural Attractions:
* Historic Sites: Visit the many historic lighthouses, forts, and mining sites that dot the UP's landscape.
*Keweenaw National Historical Park
* Soo Locks
* Marquette Maritime Museum
Local Cuisine:
* Pasties: Try this traditional Cornish pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
* Whitefish: Sample fresh Lake Superior whitefish, a local delicacy.
* Local Breweries: Explore the craft beer scene in cities like Marquette and Munising.
Tips:
* Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially near the Great Lakes.
* Wildlife: The UP is home to black bears, moose, and other wildlife, so be cautious and respectful of their habitats.
* Roads: Some roads may be seasonal or unpaved, so check road conditions before traveling.
Bonus Tip:
* Hunt for a Yooperlite (aka Syenite Sodalite).
If you're looking for something different and adventurous to do, finding a Yooperlite may be a highlight of your visit to the UP. These stones are incredibly plain-looking under ordinary light and are virtually impossible to identify without a very good ultraviolet light. Our recommendation is to bring with you a 365nm UV flashlight. These can be found on Amazon. The most prominent spot to find these is along Lake Superior. The beaches near the Grand Marais area, as well as in the Keweenaw Peninsula, are popular destinations for those searching for Yooperlites.
Places to Stay:
The upper peninsula offers many different types of accommodations, depending on your style and needs, anywhere from camping, to boutique hotels, to more budget-friendly chains.
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