Michigan Road Trip Part 2 | The Upper Peninsula (U.P.)
Our second full day road tripping the Upper Peninsula of Michigan took us into the heart of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (designated as our nation’s first Lakeshore). The towering, multicolored cliffs of Pictured Rocks extend from Sand Point, northeast along Lake Superior for about 15 miles between Grand Marais & Munising. The sun was shining and the day could not have been more gorgeous. Our first stop was a short walk to the lookout point of Miners Castle.
Miner’s Castle
From there we hiked 10 miles round trip from Miners Beach to Mosquito Beach. Maybe this wouldn’t be such a pleasant area during the hot summer months, but since we were there late in the year, we did not have any problems with the mosquitos or pesky black flies. In fact the hike, which is part of The North Country National Scenic Trail, could not have been more beautiful. A couple of hikers shared that the section of the trail from Mosquito Beach to Chapel Hill is even better – hard to image – we will definitely check it out on our next trip!
As we hiked through the woods, in and out of the beautiful overlooks and beaches, we met an inspirational hiker named Jo. She has some goals for herself to hike the entire North Country National Scenic Trail in the state of Michigan and is doing this solo, one section at a time. She was about to complete her current trip of 5 day, hiking and camping on her own. She shared that her husband often drops her off and picks her up at the end of her trips, but has no interest in going along. I’m always inspired by anyone, especially women of a certain age, like me, who go after life. It would be so easy for her to just stay home, but she is following a dream – way to go Jo!
From Munising we traveled to Marquette, the U.P.’s largest city, named after French Jesuit missionary and explorer Jacques Marquette. It’s a cute town full of great architecture, unique shops, delicious food, and rich history. After a great night’s rest we headed to Presque Isle Park, a 323-acre forested area that juts into Lake Superior at the northern tip of Marquette. The paths and views were awesome – hard to believe we were just on the edge of town.
Climbing the rocks at Black Rocks Beach
I was not expecting the wildlife we were about to see. While focusing on taking photos of a cute little chipmunk to my right, Bill was trying to get my attention of the deer standing a few feet in front of me on the trail. I missed that, but at least got a shot as he peeked back at me from around a tree.
After enjoying an awesome lunch at The Chophouse before starting our journey back we made one last stop at The Superior Dome. This unique indoor football field opened in 1991, made of 781 Douglas fir beams, 5 acres of space under the roof, height of a 14-story building.
Next time we go I’d love to take one of the cruises or better yet take a kayak into the caves and coves along the shoreline. Maybe even go back in the winter to see the dog sled races and ice hanging in the caves?
If you ever get the chance go visit the U.P., be sure to stop in one of the visitor information centers. The volunteers and park rangers in the area are a wealth of information. They can give you tips on the best trails, what there is to see, as well as share the rich history of the area.
Even if you can’t work a trip there into your schedule take some time today to get out in nature. The leaves are just starting to turn and the views are beautiful. Go with an open mind, present in the moment and enjoy what’s right in your own back yard.
