Top Things To Do in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is certainly worth a visit. With crystal-clear waters and colorful sandstone, a trip to Pictured Rocks feels as though you have transported yourself to the rocky cliffs of Portugal or Italy. Exploring the pristine lakes and forests will remind you of National Parks out west filled with wildlife and natural beauty. In this Pictured Rocks travel guide we will outline the top things to do, places to eat, and beers to drink near this breathtaking national park.
Fun Fact
Pictured Rocks earns its name from the 15 miles of colorful sandstone cliffs, carved out by water and given its colors from the iron minerals.
Table of Contents
Views
1. Hike the Chapel Basin Loop Trail
If you only have time for one hike in Pictured Rocks, this is the one! Do not be intimidated by the mileage, it does not feel very long when you are taking in the incredible views of Pictured Rocks. Although, make sure you do plan plenty of time for this hike as you will be stopping every few feet along the lakeshore to admire the beautiful landscapes.
Trail & Parking Information
Completing the entire Chapel Basin Trail is 10.1 miles round-trip with 754 feet in elevation gain. The trail is a loop and is rated as "Moderate" difficulty. Plan at least four hours to complete the entire trail. For more information and to download the trail offline on your mobile device, visit AllTrails.
Parking for this trail is at the end of Chapel Road, where we recommend you start off your hike going counter-clockwise to Chapel Falls. Along the hike you will see Chapel Lake, Chapel Falls, Chapel Beach, Chapel Rock (tree growing out of rock), Mosquito Falls, and several lookouts with breathtaking vistas. There is also a segment that cuts off Mosquito Falls and shortens your hike by a mile if you are looking for a shorter duration hike.
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2. Drive to Miners Castle Viewpoint
A drive-up vista that offers sweeping views of the cliffs and lakeshore without completing a 10-mile hike. Be sure to notice the multiple layers of rock when admiring Miners Castle. Each layer represents long periods of sand deposition and its shape is defined by water movement.
Trail Information
Completing the entire Miners Castle Trail is 0.5 miles round-trip with 85 feet in elevation gain. The trail is an out & back and is rated as "Easy" difficulty. Plan at least fifteen minutes to complete the entire trail. For more information and to download the trail offline on your mobile device, visit AllTrails.
3. Taking a boat tour with Pictured Rocks Cruises
A boat tour with Pictured Rocks Cruises is a must-do activity. The tour offers an up-close view of the stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and wildlife. It lasts about 2-3 hours and departs from Munising. Tickets are typically priced around $38 for adults and $10 for children.
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4. Exploring the Grand Sable Dunes
The Grand Sable Dunes are a magnificent sight, spanning five miles along the Lake Superior shoreline. These towering sand dunes, reaching up to 300 feet in height, are perfect for hiking and offer panoramic views of the lake. It's an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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5. Go on a Pictured Rocks Kayaking Tour
A Pictured Rocks kayaking tour provides an adventurous way to explore the lakeshore up close. You can paddle along the cliffs, caves, and waterfalls, taking in the stunning natural beauty at your own pace. Tours typically last 4-5 hours, with all equipment provided. Prior kayaking experience is recommended, and remember to book your tour in advance as they can fill up quickly during the peak season.
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6. Visiting the Au Sable Light Station
The Au Sable Light Station is a historic lighthouse located in the park. Guided tours are available during the summer months, offering a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper in the 19th century. The 1.5-mile trail to the lighthouse also offers spectacular views of the lakeshore.
Trail Information
Completing the entire AuSable Light Station Trail is 3.1 miles round-trip with 36 feet in elevation gain. The trail is an out & back and is rated as "Easy" difficulty. Plan at least one hour to complete the entire trail. For more information and to download the trail offline on your mobile device, visit AllTrails.
7. Picnicking at Sand Point Beach
Sand Point Beach is a tranquil spot perfect for a picnic. With its calm waters and scenic views of Grand Island, it's a great place to relax after a day of exploring. There are picnic tables and grills available, and the shallow water near the shore makes it a popular spot for a refreshing swim.
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8. Fishing in Lake Superior
Fishing in Lake Superior is a popular activity in Pictured Rocks. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, and whitefish. You can fish from the shore or rent a boat for a day on the water. Note that a Michigan fishing license is required.
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9. Bird-watching in the park's diverse habitats
Pictured Rocks is home to numerous bird species, providing ample opportunities for bird-watching. The park's diverse habitats, from forests to wetlands, attract a variety of birds throughout the year. Look out for peregrine falcons nesting in the cliffs during the summer, and winter finches and crossbills in the colder months.
10. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in Pictured Rocks. The park offers miles of groomed trails that traverse through beautiful winter landscapes. Equipment rentals are available locally. Be sure to check the weather conditions before setting out.
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11. Camping under the stars in one of the park's campgrounds
Camping in Pictured Rocks offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The park has three rustic campgrounds: Little Beaver Lake, Hurricane River, and Twelvemile Beach, all equipped with basic amenities. It's a great way to end the day under the starry skies, listening to the soothing sounds of the lake. Remember to book your campsite in advance, especially during the peak season.
Everything you need to know about camping:
12. Road Trip Around the Upper Peninsula
You do not have to travel out west to explore lush nature, mountainous backdrops, and rushing waterfalls. In addition to Pictured Rocks, there are so many hidden gems in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, it requires at least a week-long trip to explore everything. While in the Upper Peninsula, we highly recommend going on a road trip. This one week itinerary not only includes Pictured Rocks, but four additional can't miss U.P. destinations.
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Noms
The Upper Peninsula is known for its unique regional dishes. Some must-try foods include pasties, a type of meat pie brought to the region by Cornish miners; fresh-caught whitefish from Lake Superior; and thimbleberry jam, made from a local berry that's similar to a raspberry.
J&L Top Picks:
Muldoons Pasties & Gifts - Known for their pasties, prices range from $5-$10.
The Fish Basket - A great place for fresh-caught whitefish, with prices around $15-$25.
The Falling Rock Cafe and Bookstore - the perfect place to grab morning breakfast and coffee, expect to pay around $5-10
Pictured Rocks Pizza - Delicious wood-fire pizza in Munising, expect to pay around $10-15 per meal.
Earl E. Byrds - Diner-style breakfast in Munising, expect to pay around $15-20 per meal.
Driftwood Deli - Delicious sandwiches and craft beer to pair, expect to pay around $10-15 per meal.
Gallery Coffee Company - Try their amazing tea/lemonade combos in this beautiful coffee house, expect to pay around $3-5 per drink.
Miners Pasty Kitchen - Their delicious, hearty pasties are made with a variety of fillings, making them a satisfying choice after a day of outdoor activities, expect to pay around $5-10 per meal.
All of the recommendations are pinned to our Michigan map below:
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Brews
The Upper Peninsula offers a variety of local craft beers for beer enthusiasts. Some must-try brews include the Widowmaker Black Ale from Keweenaw Brewing Company, the Upper Hand Brewery's Yooper Ale, and the Ore Dock Brewing Company's Reclamation IPA. For those seeking unique flavors, try the Blueberry Tart from Blackrocks Brewery or the Grand Rabbits Dry Hopped Cream Ale from Blackrocks Brewery.
J&L Top Picks
East Channel Brewing Company (Munising) - A small brewery with a range of craft beers, prices are generally around $5-$7 per drink.
ByGeorge Brewing Company (Munising)- A family-run brewery with a cozy atmosphere, expect to pay around $5-$7 per drink.
The Dunes Saloon Lake Superior Brewing Co. (Grand Marais) - A local favorite with a variety of craft beers, prices generally range from $5-$7 per drink.
Blackrocks Brewery (Marquette)- Known for their creative brews, prices range from $5-$7 per drink.
Ore Dock Brewing Company (Marquette) - Offering a range of traditional and unique beers, expect to pay around $5-$8 per drink.
Keweenaw Brewing Company (Houghton)- Known for their ales and lagers, prices typically range from $4-$6 per drink.
Upper Hand Brewery (Escanaba)- Specializing in ales, expect prices around $5-$7 per drink.
All of the recommendations are pinned to our Michigan map below:
Planning Your Trip
Start by determining the length of your stay and the activities you want to do. Then research the best times to visit those attractions and make a rough itinerary. Don't forget to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Everything you need to know:
Enjoy or Pictured Rocks tips? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
