8 Things to Do When Visiting the Porcupine Mountains
Located in Michigan’s wild Upper Peninsula, the Porcupine Mountains—or the Porkies as locals lovingly refer to them—is a stunningly beautiful area featuring thousands of acres of old-growth forests and other natural wonders. The highlight is undoubtedly the 60,000-acre Porcupine Mountains State Wilderness, home to the country’s largest virgin hardwood forest. Nonetheless, the various small towns in the Upper Peninsula also offer plenty of opportunities for excitement.
Fall is a fantastic time to visit the Porkies as the trees put on one of the most stunning natural color shows found anywhere in the world. That being said, there is no bad time to visit the UP as the Porcupine Mountains offer endless fun and adventure throughout the year. With that in mind, let’s look at some of the best things to do in Ironwood, MI, and the Porcupine Mountains.
1. Ride to the Top of Copper Peak Ski Jump
Copper Peak is the tallest artificial ski jump in the world. It opened in 1969 and held competitions for over three decades before closing in 1994. Now, after years of redevelopment and investment, Copper Peak will soon again start hosting competitions with skiers from around the globe. The site gives visitors the opportunity to experience the same rush ski jumpers feel standing high up at the top and overlooking the surrounding area.
Copper Peak is located on a volcanic outcrop just outside Ironwood—considered one of the best towns in the Upper Peninsula—and offers the highest view in the entire Midwest. A visit to the ski jump starts with a chair lift ride up to the hill. Once there, you can hop inside the elevator and ride more than 150 feet to the observation deck at the top of the jump. On a clear day, you can look over Lake Superior and see all the way to Canada on the opposite shore.
2. Take In the Stunning Scenery at the Lake of the Clouds
The Lake of the Clouds is the most photographed area in all of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and for a good reason. The lake’s clear blue water shimmers surrounded by acres of lush green forest. Once fall arrives and the temperatures start to drop, the entire area lights up in a fiery display of beautiful yellow, orange, and red colors.
The lake is easily reached by car, and a scenic outlook is located just 300 feet away from the parking lot. An ADA-compliant wooden ramp and walkway run up to the viewing area to ensure everyone can access the picturesque views. From the outlook, a 3/4-mile trail leads down to the lake’s edge. Once there, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake. Bring your fishing gear and try to land some monster bass. If you try fishing, be aware that you must use artificial lures; the lake is catch-and-release only.
3. Rock Out at the Porcupine Mountain Music Festival
What could be better than a music festival? How about a music festival set amongst some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in the country? The first and only Michigan music festival held in a state park, this weekend-long event offers something for music lovers of all ages. There are plenty of fun activities for the kids, and adults can join in lively jam sessions or participate in various workshops. Oh, and did we mention the live music? Bands from around the area and beyond grace the festival stage, playing everything from country and rock to folk and bluegrass.
4. Climb to the Top of Summit Peak Observation Tower
Rising nearly 2,000 feet, Summit Peak is the tallest point in the state park—and one of the highest in the Upper Peninsula. Reaching the peak involves a leisurely one-mile hike from the parking area, and there are plenty of benches to rest on all along the trail. Once you’re at the peak, you can climb 50 or so stairs to the top of the observation tower, where you’ll be provided with incredible 360-degree views. Gaze out over the lush forest and enjoy the scenic images of Isle Royale and Lake Superior in the distance. The observation tower is also one of the best areas in the state to take in a gorgeous sunrise or sunset.
5. Go Off in Search of Waterfalls
The park is home to more than 70 different waterfalls; no visit can be complete without stopping by at least a few. The Presque Isle River Trail is a great place to start, and you can stroll along either the East or West River Trail for around a mile and take in the sites of Manabezho, Manido, and Nawadaha Falls. Agate Falls, considered by many to be the most beautiful waterfall in the state, is another one you don’t want to miss. O-Kun-de-Kun Falls is an excellent choice if you feel like a slightly more challenging—and highly rewarding hike.
6. Enjoy a Breathtaking Hike Along the Escarpment Trail
With hundreds of miles of trails to explore, the Porkies are a hiking enthusiast’s dream. One of the most beautiful trails in the park and the entire Midwest, the Escarpment Trail offers a fun, slightly challenging adventure for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. This moderately challenging trail covers 8.6 miles—4.3 miles in and another 4.3 miles back out.
Along the way, you will be treated to incredible sights of the Lake of the Clouds viewed from various angles, beautiful bluffs, and a view over the scenic Upper Carp River Valley. The trail begins at the Lake of the Clouds parking area. However, if you’re looking for a shorter, less-challenging hike, there are also three other easily accessible trailheads you can start from.
7. Sleep Out Under the Stars
Camping is a great way to return to nature and enjoy all the area offers. Five campgrounds within the state park offer a total of 164 campsites. The majority of the spots are pretty rustic and don’t have many amenities. However, those looking for something a bit more comfortable should check out the more modern facilities at Union Bay Campground.
The park also has additional backcountry camping options that you will need to hike to, which are open between May and October. This includes 65 camping spots, four comfy yurts, and 19 country cabins. No matter where you choose to camp, you are sure to have a blast relaxing by a campfire and gazing up at the stars.
8. Challenge Yourself on the Cross-Country Ski Trails
Ironwood and the surrounding area is one of the snowiest places in the country, and all of this powder offers the perfect opportunity for a bit of cross-country skiing. In fact, Ironwood is regularly named among the best cross-country ski destinations in the country. With hundreds of miles of snowy trails to explore, skiers and snowshoers regularly flock to the area to experience all it has to offer.
Some of the highlights include ABR Trails, ranked the 4th best cross-country resort in the US, and the nearby Wolverine, Mecca, and Uller trails. You can also drive a short distance from Ironwood into the Porkies, where you’ll find another 18 miles of groomed trails and more than 90 miles of backcountry skiing opportunities. Downhill skiers will also enjoy making the trip to the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers opportunities for outdoor adventure like no other. It’s also one of the only places in the lower 48 where you can regularly see the Northern Lights. Combine this with the Porkies’ picturesque scenery and a nearly endless list of available activities, and you have the recipe for one of the most memorable trips of your life.