The Best Western U.P. Beaches

The Western U.P. is known for clean water, fresh air, clear skies, and remote adventures!  Western U.P. beaches check all of the boxes of what makes Ironwood so special.  The Western U.P. has miles upon miles of fresh water coastline and this list will show you the best places to fit your adventure.

Black River Harbor

Black River Harbor – Beaches, Boating, Paddling, Hiking & More!

Known for its spectacular waterfalls, idyllic beaches, scenic hiking trails and tranquil campground, the Black River Harbor Recreation Area is a popular destination throughout the year. Originating in Wisconsin, the Black River flows through forested areas of large pine, hemlock and hardwood trees. The River has a series of scenic waterfalls as it drops in elevation to meet Lake Superior. Tannin (tanic acids)from hemlock trees is what gives it its unique color.

The Harbor offers one of the area’s few access points to Lake Superior, with boating being a major summer time activity. The boat ramp can accommodate almost any craft trailered in. There is no launching fee. Boat fuel and snacks are available through the concessionaire. Parking for trucks and boat trailers is ample.

Little Girls Point

One of the most unique pebble beaches on Lake Superior!

Take a break and unplug on this simple, but well maintained County Park and Beach. Little Girls Point extends over a half mile along Lake Superior. The beach is a magnet for rock pickers and agate hunters with crystal clear water to swim, paddle and float the day away. If you look Northwest you can see the Apostle Islands and Northeast, the Porcupine Mountains. There is a picnic area with 2 pavilions, picnic tables, grills and stone buildings with restrooms. Also camping sites lake side or wooded all close to the beach. The extension camp is available to rent for reunions, weddings and get togethers. Reservations for camping call 906-663-4428 or 906-932-1913

upper peninsula waterfallsPorcupine Mountains Coastline

The Porcupine Mountains is located in both Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Throughout the park is either remote access to beaches or beach access along the road. Please check with the ranger station to find out the best locations along for beach going. There are some public access points along the road between the porkies and Silver City.

Ontonagon Beach

Located in and right outside the Village of Ontonagon, is beautiful public beach.  The beach is sandy, and has easy access to town.  Enjoy the beach or some of the other amenities like playground, trails, and pavilion.

Saxon Harbor

Located just across the Montreal River into Wisconsin, Saxon Harbor Beach is one of our favorites.  This beach is difficult to get to, but is a great location for swimming as the sandy beach stretches out pretty far into Lake Superior.  Saxon Harbor is the main harbor for charter boats, and has been completely renovated to include outbuildings for fish cleaning, bathrooms, and even has a restaurant.