Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula is a paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning wilderness, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventures. From peaceful nature sanctuaries to thrilling hikes with breathtaking views, the Keweenaw is filled with endless exploration opportunities all year long.
Greenstone Ridge Trail
Voted one of Michigan’s top hikes, the Greenstone Ridge Trail at Isle Royale National Park stretches 43 miles from Windigo to Rock Harbor. For hiking enthusiasts, this four-day trek promises incredible views of Lake Superior, majestic white pine forests, and granite outcrops. It’s also a prime spot for spotting moose! Due to the length and difficulty, be prepared to camp and bring water filtration gear. You can access the island by ferry from Copper Harbor or seaplane from Hubbell. The journey is well worth it for the scenic payoff!
Canyon Gorge Trail
Just off US-41 between Houghton and Marquette, the Canyon Gorge Trail is perfect for those wanting a scenic yet easy hike. This 4-mile out-and-back trail will take you to the “Grand Canyon of the Upper Peninsula,” where you can view the stunning 15-foot Canyon Falls and explore the impressive gorge carved by the Sturgeon River. Trailhead is about 7 miles south of L’Anse off of US41 (turn right at the rest area and follow signs to trailhead).
Estivant Pines Wilderness Nature Sanctuary
For a tranquil 3 mile hike through Michigan’s largest old-growth Eastern White Pine forest, head to the Estivant Pines Wilderness Nature Sanctuary. These towering trees, some over 300 years old, create a peaceful, shaded walk. The sanctuary also offers fascinating historical sites, including ancient copper mine pits from thousands of years ago. Bird lovers will enjoy spotting some of the 85 species that call this forest home.
Travel US-41 through Copper Harbor and turn right onto 2nd Street (Manganese Road). Follow for a little over a mile and bear left on Clark Mine Road. Look for signs for Estivant Pines and travel a little over ½ mile to the parking area on the right. The Trailhead and more parking is on the left.
Cliff View Trail
If panoramic views of the Keweenaw Peninsula are on your list, the Cliff View Trail at Mount Bohemia is a must. This 1.5 to 2-hour hike is relatively easy, but the scenic rewards are priceless! Follow the blue cones up the mountain for some of the best vistas around.
Black Creek Nature Sanctuary
One of the Keweenaw’s hidden gems, the Black Creek Nature Sanctuary offers a peaceful 4.8-mile hike through diverse landscapes, including sand dunes, forests, and a stunning lagoon formed by Black and Hills Creeks. This quiet spot is perfect for observing wildlife and soaking in the beauty of Lake Superior’s shoreline.
On the north end of Calumet turn west on M-203 and drive a little over a mile to Tamarack Waterworks Road and turn right. Follow for 2 ½ miles and turn right on Cedar Bay Road. Go another 2 ½ miles until you reach the Black Creek parking area and trailhead on the right.
Mount Baldy – Helmut & Candis Stern Preserve
For a more challenging adventure, the Helmut & Candis Stern Preserve hike to Mount Baldy offers a 6-mile round-trip climb with unmatched panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding peninsula. At 730 feet above the lake, the summit offers a fantastic reward for those who make the climb. Keep an eye out for black bears and a variety of bird species along the way.
Head north out of Calumet for approximately 17 miles and turn left on Eagle Harbor Shortcut Road in Mohawk. Continue for a little over 5 miles and turn right onto the parking lot on Eagle Harbor Township Property. Please park in the established parking lot (coordinates: 47.4504444°, -088.1613056). From here, hike 1.6 miles to the preserve boundary. It is another 1.4 miles to the top of Mt. Baldy.
A trail for everyone!
Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely walk, the Keweenaw Peninsula has a trail for every skill level and interest. Experience the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula firsthand!
