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Adventure Awaits at Copper Harbor Trails

At the northern tip of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, you’ll find the Copper Harbor Trails, a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. These trails are renowned for their epic views, rugged terrain, and a community dedicated to making your visit unforgettable. As an IMBA Silver Level Ride Center, Copper Harbor is the ultimate destination for sports lovers who crave adventure.

With over 50 miles of singletrack winding through dense forests and overlooking Lake Superior, these trails are perfect for a variety of activities. While they’re known for mountain biking, you can also enjoy hiking, trail running, bird watching, photography, and more—all powered by your own two feet. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding excitement or a peaceful escape into nature, Copper Harbor’s backcountry delivers.

Hiking the Copper Harbor Trails

Most of the trails are open for hiking and trail running, except for the downhill mountain bike routes. Hikers and runners always have the right of way, so bikers will yield to those on foot. Popular mixed-use trails include Garden Brook, Raptor Ridge, and West Woopidy Woo. If you’re seeking solitude, try hiking the trails above town, where you’re more likely to have long, quiet stretches to yourself.

Mountain Biking at Copper Harbor

Mountain bikers, rejoice! Copper Harbor offers everything from downhill tracks and flow trails to technical challenges. Intermediate riders can enjoy fast, fun rides on trails like Garden Brook, while expert bikers can tackle the more rugged Ma Maki. Newer riders aren’t left out either—there are easy trails like Orchard Trail and Hunters Point Trail, which even offer a little history along the way. For e-bikers, Class 1 E-bikes are permitted on many of the trails.

Winter Wonderland

When snow blankets the Keweenaw, the adventure doesn’t stop. All trails remain open for winter sports like snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. Nordic and fat biking trails are groomed by volunteers, making Copper Harbor a year-round playground for outdoor fun.

Trail Etiquette

To keep Copper Harbor Trails safe and enjoyable for everyone, follow these simple guidelines:

Bikers yield to hikers.
Uphill traffic has the right of way.
Keep your dog under control.
Respect wildlife and the environment.
No motorized vehicles or horses allowed.

These are just a few of the guidelines, for more information visit Copper Harbor Trails Club

From breathtaking views to heart-pounding rides, Copper Harbor is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or just love a good hike, the Copper Harbor Trails offer something for everyone.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.