things to do in the upper peninsula michigan

The Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan is a beautiful and rugged region surrounded by three Great Lakes (Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron). Here are some things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Hiking and Backpacking: The UP has numerous hiking trails, including the North Country Trail and the Michigan Iron Belle Trail.
2. Fishing and Boating: The UP has an abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams filled with fish, including trout, salmon, and whitefish.
3. Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the many lakes, rivers, and wetlands of the UP by kayak or canoe.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding: The UP has several ski resorts, including Nub’s Nob, Boyne Mountain, and Shanty Creek.
5. Snowmobiling: The UP has an extensive network of snowmobile trails, including the Michigan Snowmobile Trail.

Scenic Spots:

1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: A stunning national park with colorful sandstone cliffs, beaches, and waterfalls.
2. Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Home to the famous Tahquamenon Falls, also known as the "Root Beer Falls."
3. Miners Castle: A picturesque rock formation and one of the most photographed spots in the UP.
4. Marquette Harbor Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse with stunning views of Lake Superior.
5. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: A beautiful park with scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

Local Culture and History:

1. Marquette: A charming college town with a rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
2. Houghton: A historic town with a rich mining heritage, home to Michigan Technological University.
3. Copper Harbor: A quaint town with a rich copper mining history and stunning natural beauty.
4. Soo Locks: A set of locks in Sault Ste. Marie that allow ships to pass between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes.
5. Indian Reservations: The UP is home to several Indian reservations, including the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community.

Food and Drink:

1. Pasties: A traditional UP food, pasties are a must-try when visiting the region.
2. Smoked Fish: The UP is famous for its smoked fish, particularly whitefish and salmon.
3. Local Breweries: The UP has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries like Ore Dock Brewing Co. and Blackrocks Brewery.
4. Wine: The UP has several wineries, including the Keweenaw Peninsula Winery and the Leelanau Cellars.

Other Attractions:

1. Mackinac Bridge: A iconic bridge connecting the UP to the Lower Peninsula of Michigan.
2. Sault Ste. Marie: A historic city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
3. Keweenaw Peninsula: A scenic peninsula with stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
4. Iron Mountain: A historic town with a rich iron mining heritage, home to the Iron Mountain Iron Mine.
5. Golfing: The UP has several golf courses, including the Greywalls Course at Marquette Golf and Country Club.

These are just a few of the many things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions that make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the Great Lakes region.