The shores of Lake Superior are something to behold, with breathtaking scenery that changes along every mile. You can explore pristine lakeside beaches, naturally sculpted sandstone cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. It is a land of inland lakes, deep forests, and a shoreline that lets you explore a variety of ecosystems. One of the greatest natural wonders in the US, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan is the perfect destination for camping, hiking, or going for a weekend sightseeing excursion. Thes Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore photos are bound to impress you!
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, making it a somewhat remote destination, but one that is absolutely worth the extra effort it takes to get here.
The area is managed by the National Park Service and became the first of the nation’s four National Lakeshores in 1996. Pictured Rocks gets its name from the uniquely colorful sandstone cliffs - some of which tower over 200 feet - along 15 miles of Lake Superior's coastline.
The park, as a whole, stretches for 42 miles along the shore, but the cliffs are definitely the star of the show here.
The unique colors come from various minerals that have stained the sandstone in a rainbow of colors, making for a sight unlike any other.
In addition to these painted cliffs, the shoreline also features incredible arches, caves, and fascinating formations that are popular to explore by boat or kayak during the summertime and on foot during the snowy months.
Due to the potentially rough conditions on Lake Superior, guided kayak tours are highly suggested and there are several authorized outfitters that will lead you to the most spectacular spots on the coastline.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is open year-round and is stunning in every season. The cliffs and caves often freeze over entirely during the winter, and when the conditions are safe, you can hike right down and enter the ice caves for a truly surreal experience.
The winter caves are formed by frozen waterfalls along the porous sandstone, creating a beautiful curtain of ice. For the more adventurous, you can even try your hand at ice climbing, though this is definitely a more advanced activity.
In addition to these wondrous caves, ample snowfall creates the perfect conditions for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling along the beautiful trails throughout Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Though winter is certainly an exciting season here, the summertime fun is equally as enticing.
There are nearly 100 miles of trails throughout the park, as well as three drive-in campgrounds and 14 backcountry campsites. Pictured Rocks is also a surprisingly popular scuba diving destination, as the rough waters of Lake Superior have caused more than a few shipwrecks over the decades. The Alger Underwater Preserve, in particular, draws divers into the protected offshore areas that hide beneath the surface.
Above lake level, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is home to several of Michigan’s most beautiful waterfalls.
You'll wander through forests, ferns, and wildflowers before reaching the 50-foot-tall cascade over a cliff.
Miners Falls and Sable Falls are other popular options, tumbling 50 feet and 75 feet, respectively.
There is a short and sweet self-guided interpretive trail that ends at the Miners Falls, but do note that there are 77 steps leading down to the observation platform, so prepare for a bit of a climb on your way back up.
There are trails of all lengths and difficulty levels throughout Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, ranging from paved walkways that are only a few hundred feet long to segments of the North Country Scenic Trail that stretches 42 miles through the length of the park.
Another fascinating feature found in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the Grand Sable Dunes.
The dunes cover more than five square miles and the tallest tower more than 300 feet above the lake, making them the highest formation in the park. While an impressive sight in their own right, the Grand Sable Dunes are also a unique ecosystem that is home to rare and endangered plant species.
For those who prefer to sit back, relax, and take in the scenery, the beautiful beach at Sand Point is the perfect spot.
The water here tends to be warmer for swimming than in other parts of the park, and it’s hard to beat a Lake Superior sunset.
Believe it or not, Pictured Rocks becomes even more colorful during the autumn months.
The bold hues of the fall foliage erupt in shades of red, orange, and gold, contrasting brilliantly against the pristine, blue water of Lake Superior.
There are countless ways to explore Pictured Rocks on your own, but the National Park Service also offers fascinating guided tours where you can learn more about specific areas.
One popular ranger-led activity is the Lighthouse Tours of the Au Sable Lighthouse, which are offered from mid-June through the end of September. This active lighthouse is 87 feet tall and was built in 1874 to guide ships along Au Sable Point, one of the most dangerous areas of Lake Superior’s "shipwreck coast."
The park has two visitor centers, one on each end of the park.
Munising Falls Visitor Center is located near the park's western end, while Grand Sale Visitor Center can be found near Grand Marais on the eastern end of the park. Several special programs and classes are offered at the visitor centers during the summer months for those who wish to learn more about the history and geology of the park.
No matter how you choose to explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you’ll be wowed in every season.
The ever-changing landscape makes it worthy of a return trip to see it from multiple perspectives.
Between the beautiful views, unique natural features, and nearly endless activities available at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, it's clear that this is a true hidden gem along the nation's northern coast. Just don't forget a camera when you come to explore!
General Information:
Accessibility: Although ice and snowy conditions can make parts of the park inaccessible during winter, Pictured Rocks administrators have worked hard to create an environment that is wheelchair accessible via several paved trails and overlooks, handicapped-accessible campsites, picnic sites, and beachside paved sidewalks. Interagency Visitor Center, Munising Falls Interpretive Center, and Miners Castle Information Station in Munising, as well as the Grand Sable Visitor Center in Grand Marais, are all wheelchair-accessible. For more accessibility information, visit the official website.
Pet Friendly: Pets are allowed in certain areas of the park, but not all of them. Watch for signs. All pets must be on a six-foot leash at all times.
Parking: You can access the west side of the park via Michigan highways M-28 and M-94. You can also access spur roads off Alger County Road H-58 that lead to parking spaces next to overlooks, trailheads, beaches, and campgrounds.
Seasonal Access: You can explore this park any time of the year, and there are activities for every season and type of outdoor adventurer. Some roads and access points may be closed during the winter. It is closed during major holidays.
Cost: The park costs no fees, but they do sell America the Beautiful Passes. Special programs and tours may have a small fee. You can learn more on the National Park Service website here.
Feeling inspired to fill up your Bucket List? Check out our previous features of Red River Gorge in Kentucky, Big Bend National Park in Texas, and the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in the Pacific Northwest, then subscribe to our weekly Bucket List newsletter to discover new destinations across the country that definitely deserve a visit.
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