Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, lakes, forest, and shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four season outdoor opportunities abound. The Lakeshore hugs the Lake Superior shoreline for more than 40 miles. Lake Superior is the largest, deepest, coldest, and most pristine of all the Great Lakes.
The Basics
Hours:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is open year-round, 24 hours day, though many roads are closed by snow in the winter. There is no entrance fee.
Operating Hours - Visitor Centers
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - Hiawatha National Forest Interagency Visitor Center is open year round, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is open daily from mid-May to mid-October with extended operating hours.
The Grand Sable Visitor Center, Munising Falls Interpretive Center, and Miners Castle Information Center are open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Park headquarters at Sand Point in Munising is open year round, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, but closed on federal holidays.
Address:
N8391 Sand Point Road
PO Box 40 Munising, MI 49862-0040
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located on the south shore of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, between the communities of Munising (west) and Grand Marais (east).
Michigan state highways M-28 and M-94 lead to Munising. State highway M-77 leads to Grand Marais. Alger County Road H-58 and other spur roads (some unpaved) provide access throughout the lakeshore. Many roads are closed by snow during the winter.
Climate
The Lakeshore climate varies as much as the seasons. Summertime high temperatures can reach the 90's with much cooler evening temperatures. Temperatures in the 70's and 80's are more common. Wintertime temperatures in the 20's are common. Below zero weather is unusual or short-lived. Snowfall averages 140 inches each year. Layered clothing for changing weather is recommended.
There is no particular "best" season to visit the Lakeshore for each has its own charm and variety of activities. In the spring, wild flowers bloom in great profusion to add to the beauty of the natural area. The summer brings pleasantly warm weather and abundant sunshine. Autumn boasts a colorful display as the hardwood forest changes color. A mantle of snow sets the stage for winter activities.
Fees
No Fees. Guided tours may charge additional fees.
Things To Do
Outdoor opportunities are enjoyed year-round at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Spring brings wildflowers to photograph and fish to catch. Summer offers picnicking, boating, hiking, and camping. Autumn brings a vibrant display of colors as hunters take to the north woods. Winter visitors enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
The Pictured Rocks cliffs stretch for 15 miles from near Sand Point to beyond Spray Falls where they give way to the white sands of Twelvemile Beach. The Grand Sable Dunes rise high above the Lake Superior near Grand Marais.
Visitors enjoy the sights and serenity of this beautiful area on Lake Superior in many different ways ... what's your favorite?
Outdoor Boating and Fishing
Boating
Lake Superior's rugged shoreline invites boaters to explore the beautiful Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with its miles of colorful sandstone cliffs and long stretches of white sand beach. Peaceful inland lakes also invite boaters to linger in the northwoods.
Be very cautious while boating on Lake Superior, where the weather can change suddenly. Consult the marine weather forecast before venturing out. Watch the weather carefully while on the lake.
The Pictured Rocks cliffs rise 50 to 200 feet directly from the lake, offering precious few protected places if the wind and waves increase.
Motorized Boats
Motorized boats are permitted on Grand Sable Lake and Lake Superior. Boats and motors of any size are permitted on Lake Superior. However, horsepower is limited to 50 on Grand Sable Lake. There is a shallow boat ramp on Grand Sable Lake.
Only electric motors may be used on Little Beaver Lake and Beaver Lake. Little Beaver Lake has a shallow boat ramp. Other inland lakes do not have boat ramps.
Boats may be launched into Lake Superior at the City of Munising's Browns Addition boat ramp. Burt Township maintains a boat ramp in Grand Marais harbor. There is a small boat ramp at Sand Point, but it is very shallow.
Canoes and Small Boats
Beaver Lake, Little Beaver Lake, and Grand Sable Lake are favorites for small boats and canoes. Only electric motors may be used on Little Beaver and Beaver Lakes. Legion Lake, Miners Lake, and Chapel Lake are accessible only by carrying your canoe.
Most rivers are too shallow for canoeing. Lake Superior can be rough, and small craft are easily swamped.
Backcountry permits are required for overnight boaters.
Personal Watercraft
Personal watercraft (PWC) may travel within the lakeshore from the western boundary near Sand Point to the eastern terminus of Miners Beach. PWC may be launched from the Sand Point boat ramp. PWC are not permitted elsewhere within the lakeshore's one-quarter mile offshore jurisdiction along the Lake Superior shoreline.
Due to horsepower restrictions, PWC are not allowed on inland lakes within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
According to State of Michigan law, PWC must not operate from one hour before sunset to 8 a.m. When traveling within 200 feet of the shoreline, PWC must travel at a slow/no-wake speed perpendicular to the shoreline.
Fishing
Hidden backcountry beaver ponds and Brook Trout ... a paddle stroke through loon waters and the hard tug of a Smallmouth Bass ... Lake Superior's open horizons of wind and surf and spawning Steelhead. The fishing opportunities are many, and the experience draw us back.
Fishing Opportunities
With its many streams, inland lakes, and Lake Superior, the lakeshore offers a variety of fishing opportunities. Common cool water game fish include Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Whitefish, Menominee and Smelt. Trout species include Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout and Coho Salmon.
Fishing Regulations
State of Michigan fishing regulations apply, including creel limits, license requirements, and seasons. Persons under 17 years of age may fish without a license.
Fishing Tips
The best fishing is usually in the early morning and evening when many fish feed.
For Steelhead and Coho, use spawn bags or spoons. Natural bait (no exotic species) and spinners work well on brook trout. Small thin hooks with individual fish eggs work well for Menominee. Smelt fishing near the bottom or spoons are productive for Lake Trout.
Digging for bait in the lakeshore is prohibited.
Your personal floatation device won't do you any good if it if inaccessible. Wear it on the inland lakes and Lake Superior. Before venturing onto the big lake, get an updated marine weather forecast and be aware of quick changes in weather and sea conditions. The only safe harbors are Munising Bay and Grand Marais Bay on either end of the lakeshore.
Ice fisherman should ensure safe ice conditions before fishing. Snowmobiles are permitted on designated roads and on Grand Sable Lake and Lake Superior.
Only electric motors are permitted on Beaver Lake and Little Beaver Lake. On Grand Sable Lake, horsepower is limited to 50. All other inland lakes are accessible only by carrying your canoe.
Bicycles are permitted on the visitor use roads when traveling with the flow of traffic. Bicycles, including mountain bikes, are not permitted on trails within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
The Hiawatha National Forest and Grand Island National Recreation Area nearby offer many opportunties for trail biking.
Winter at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore brings solitude and beauty to the northwoods. This is your winter wonderland for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, winter camping, ice fishing, and snowshoeing.
From late November through mid-April, the Upper Peninsula is blanketed with snow. You will hear all sorts of predictions. “Munising gets 200 inches of snow a winter!” “The annual snowfall in Grand Marais is 300 inches!”
Fact is, the Lakeshore does not receive as much snow as it did a few decades ago. According to the National Weather Service in Marquette, the current average for Munising is somewhere between 140 and 144 inches while the average for Grand Marais is similar. Near Melstrand in the middle of the park, their average is probably higher - possibly due to that area not being as protected by Grand Island from northwesterly driven lake effect snowfall.
Cross-Country Skiing
The Lakeshore offers two groomed and tracked cross-country ski trails located near Munising and Grand Marais. Over 20 miles of trails wind through a magical landscape in of a variety of habitats and topography. Beech, maple, hemlock, and conifer forests and old fields grow on the sandy uplands and rugged hills of old glacial features. The trails receive about 140 inches of snow each winter.
Each trail offers a variety of loop lengths for a leisurely day ski or quick workout at the end of the day. All Lakeshore trails are designed for diagonal stride only - skating is not permitted.
Trails are marked with blue diamonds and a map at each intersection. Watch and listen for grooming equipment when you ski.
Trail maps are available at trailheads and at trail intersections. The Munising trails (C and D) feature several interpretive waysides on the natural and human history of the area. Be sure to stop at these for a brief overview of some interesting topics.
Skiing is free at the Lakeshore.
For Your Safety
On the Grand Marais Trails, loops C and D cross a county road used by snowmobiles - listen and watch for approaching snowmobiles before crossing.
On the Munising Trails, loops A and B cross a snowmobile trail at four locations - listen and watch for approaching snowmobiles before crossing.
Watch for other skiers on downhill runs.
Ski trail conditions may vary. Heavy weekend use and alternating daytime thawing and nighttime freezing may turn snow packed slopes into fast, icy runs. Severe storms are common in the area and may rise quickly. Wind may obliterate the trail at times.
Darkness comes early in winter so allow plenty of time to return to your vehicle before dark. As always, be sure to let someone know you where are skiing and when you expect to return.
Wear adequate layers of clothing. Take food and water if you plan to be out for the day. Match your skill level to the trails you ski.
Pets, winter camping, snowshoeing, walking, and skating are not permitted on Lakeshore ski trails.
Ice Climbing
Ice climbing is becoming a popular winter sport within the Lakeshore. With ample lake effect snow, numerous waterfalls, porous sandstone cliffs, and the water which seeps out of the rock layers, curtains and columns of ice are common.
Snow and ice are generally present by the second or third week in December and remain until late March. While ice frequently forms along the Pictured Rocks cliffs above Lake Superior, these areas are not recommended for climbing due to hazardous exposure to the lake.
The most accessible ice columns are found along the Pictured Rocks escarpment between Munising Falls and Sand Point along Sand Point Road.
Sand Point columns and blue ice curtains are 20-50 feet high. Parking is located at Sand Point Beach or at Munising Falls. The Sand Point Road is narrow with no shoulder; therefore, parking is prohibited along Sand Point Road.
Please note that Munising Falls is closed to ice climbing. Additional columns are located at Miners Falls and on the east side of the Miners Basin.
Miners Falls is a 40 foot column. Access requires a three mile ski or snowshoe trek in from the end of the plowed road at the junction of Carmody and Miners Castle Roads.
Miners Basin Falls is located 1.2 miles north of Miners Falls on the east side of the escarpment. Travel to this column is over land.
Other popular areas for climbing are on Grand Island National Recreation Area, which is administered by the Hiawatha National Forest. Grand Island ice curtains are accessed from Grand Island Landing off M-28. However, travel between Sand Point and the thumb portion of Grand Island is not recommended due to frequent hazardous ice conditions caused by lake currents.
When setting belay points from above remember it is your responsibility to preserve and protect vegetation and other natural features. Secure belay ropes to trees with a diameter larger than 8 inches and growing well back from the edge.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is a popular pastime in and around the Lakeshore. A number of unplowed roads lead to major points of interest. Log Slide and Miners Castle are possibly the two most popular.
Snowmobiles are permitted on designated portions of roadways and lakes in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
The designated routes for snowmobiles are the frozen waters of Lake Superior and Grand Sable Lake, and the major Lakeshore roads used by motorists in the summer.
These unplowed roads and the shoulders of plowed park roads are open to snowmobiling in conformance with state law. With the exception of the trails listed below, snowmobiles are not permitted where vehicles are not allowed in summer.
Designated Snowmobile Routes
Sand Point Road from the park boundary to Lake Superior.
From the park boundary off City Limits Road southwest to the Becker Farm, and down to Sand Point Road.
Miners Falls Road, Miners Castle Road and parking area, and the Miners Beach Road.
From the park boundary in Section 32, T48N, RI 7W, to the Chapel Falls parking area.
Road from H-58 at the park boundary to the Little Beaver Lake Campground.
Road from H-58 at the park boundary to the Twelvemile Beach Campground.
Road from H-58 to the Hurricane River Campground.
Road from H-58 to the Log Slide parking lot.
Michigan Dimension Road from the park boundary to the Log Slide parking area.
The frozen waters of Lake Superior and Grand Sable Lake.
Snowshoeing
The Lakeshore consists of some 73,000 acres along 42 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. Of that 73,000 acres, 33,000 acres are mostly snowshoeable. Indeed, of that 33,000 acres, the only places you cannot snowshoe are probably obvious - on roads open the vehicular traffic and on the park’s 20 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails. The entire remainder of the Lakeshore is there for you to enjoy via snowshoeing or skiing.
The park does not mark any specific snowshoe trails. One good thing about snowshoes is once you have gone about half way, turn around and follow your tracks back to the car! Barring a blizzard, your record of tracks is pretty easy to follow home.
The benefits of snowshoeing are many, including the opportunity for solitude in a relatively deserted environment. If you strike out in the park on an old road or logging trail, the only sound you may hear is the beating of your own heart and the wind in the pines.
Though wildlife is pretty scarce in winter, tracks of otter, red squirrel, marten, fisher, deer, grouse, raven and snowshoe hare are often seen.
Your Safety Comes First!
As you can imagine, winter is one of the best times to be completely prepared! An unexpected slip into a creek, the loss of a tarp in a blizzard, a broken snowshoe binding can quickly spell disaster. The old scout adage of “Be Prepared” is the best medicine.
Here are a few helpful safety suggestions.
Before you leave home, let someone know where you are going, how long you plan to be out, a description of your vehicle, where it will be parked, and when you plan to return. Write it down!
Take plenty of liquids and snacks or food along with you ... maybe a little to spare in case something should happen.
Take repair materials for skis, snowshoes, or your snowmobile.
Don’t expect your cell phone to work in the park. Many areas do not receive reception due to a lack of towers, cloudy conditions, hilly topography and heavy forest cover.
If you are camping overnight, be sure to obtain a backpacking permit at the Interagency Visitor Center in Munising.
Know the local weather forecast and watch the weather. A southeast or northeast wind will often proceed impending heavy snowfall.
Take a compass and map and know how to use them. It is easy to get turned around in portions of the Lakeshore when the days are short and the clouds block the sun.
Realize that the Park Ranger staff is reduced in winter and response times are extended due to winter conditions.
Having considered all of this, remember that winter is one of the most incredible seasons at the Lakeshore. You will likely see very few people, a lot of animal tracks, and will be able to enjoy a type of solitude unknown at other times of the year. Happy trekking!
Winter Camping Regulations
Backcountry camping regulations are different for winter. However, a backcountry permit is required year-round. The fee is $4 per person, per night ($15 reservation fee).
A snow depth of 6 inches or more is required for winter camping rules to take effect.
Winter camping is permitted in drive-in campgrounds without charge.
Winter camping is permitted off park roads beyond a distance of 100 feet.
Use of stoves is required - campfires are not permitted unless you build them in fire rings in developed front or backcountry sites.
Winter camping is permitted beyond 100 feet of a creek, river or lake.
Overnight camping in parking lots is not permitted.
Areas closed to winter camping
All that portion of Sand Point described as the area below the top of the bluff in Sections 19 and 30, T47N, R18W, and that area situated within the corporate limits of the City of Munising, including the Sand Point Road.
The area within 150 yards of the Miners Castle overlooks, paved walkways, and vehicle parking lot. Also 100 feet from the centerline of the paved Miners Castle Road, and the area within 100 feet of Miners Falls parking lot, trail, and associated platforms.
The area within 100 feet of the Chapel Falls parking lot.
The area within 100 feet of the Little Beaver backpacker parking lot.
The area within 100 feet of the Twelvemile Beach picnic area parking lot.
The area within 150 yards of any structure at the Au Sable Light Station, and within 100 feet of the trail between the lower Hurricane River Campground and the Light Station.
The area within 100 feet of the Log Slide parking lot, platforms, and walkways.
The area within 100 feet of the Grand Sable Lake picnic area and parking lot, the Grand Sable Lake boat launch and parking lot, and the Grand Sable Lake overlook parking lot.
The area within 150 yards of the Sable Falls parking lot and building, to include the viewing platforms and associated walkway system to the mouth of Sable Creek. Also included is the area 100 feet from the centerline of the paved Sable Falls Road.
The area within 150 yards of the Grand Sable Visitor Center parking lot and barn.
The area within 150 yards of the structures comprising the Grand Marais quarters and maintenance facility.
The 8.6 acre tract comprising structures and lands administered by the National Park Service on Coast Guard Point in Grand Marais.
Hunting
The shortening days of fall bring with them the transformation of green leaves to crimson and gold, first frost, lines of waterfowl winging southward across the sky, and thoughts of past hunting trips in the north country.
Hunting is permitted within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in accordance with federal migratory bird laws and federal and State of Michigan regulations. Along with fishing, hunting is an activity specifically allowed by the Congress of the United States when it authorized the lakeshore in 1966.
Hunting Opportunities
With its varied topography, lakes, streams, and mixed coniferous and hardwood forest, Pictured Rocks provides habitat for a variety of game animals. Most hunting activities are for white-tailed deer, grouse, woodcock, bear, and snowshoe hare. Whether archery, muzzle loading, or firearms, hunters find ample hunting opportunities from grown-over farm fields to backcountry cedar swamps.
The hunting season begins in mid-September with bear and grouse seasons and continues through the winter with snowshoe hare season. The park follows Michigan hunting regulations. A Michigan hunting license is required, and is available in local communities. Appropriate waterfowl stamps (state and federal) may also be required.
Hunting dogs are permitted during legal hunting seasons when accompanied by a licensed hunter, and may travel unrestrained in all backcountry and non-developed areas of the Lakeshore. When not actively engaged in hunting, dogs must be restrained on a six-foot leash. State hunting regulations apply in the use of dogs for hunting.
Your Safety and Resource Protection
Hunters need to be especially safety conscious because many people enjoy recreational activities within the lakeshore from camping to cross-country skiing. The Lakeshore is also home to many non-game birds and mammals. Be a safe, responsible hunter - know your target.
While carrying a firearm, all hunters must wear hunter orange that is at least 50% of the garment.
Use caution because day hikers and backpackers also use the park during hunting seasons. Certain areas of the lakeshore are closed to hunting for public safety.
Protected wildlife include eagles, hawks, owls, non-game birds, wolves, lynx, moose, marten, fisher, cougar, and cub bears. It is also unlawful to shoot turtles, frogs, and snakes.
Hunting Closures
No person may discharge a firearms or bow and arrow within a safety zone of 450 feet from an occupied dwelling, building, cabin, camp, or campground.
Hunting is not permitted within the lakeshore from April 1 to Labor Day. Certain developed and high visitor use areas are closed to hunting for public safety.
Target practice is not permitted in the Lakeshore. Spotlighting is prohibited at all times. By federal law, trapping is not permitted within the Lakeshore.
A Few Reminders
Motor vehicles are allowed only on designed roads within the lakeshore. Designated roads are those that are open to the general public and access visitor use areas. ATVs are not allowed within the lakeshore, including on and off park roads.
While in a vehicle, firearms must be unloaded and enclosed in a case or unloaded and in the trunk. Arrows must be in the quiver when afield outside legal hunting hours.
Bait must be placed only on the ground. Unused bait must be stored in a sealed animal-proof container to inside a hard-sided vehicle.
Tree stands, hunting platforms, steps, and ladders must be portable, and cannot be affixed or attached to any tree by nails, screws, or bolts. Screw-in steps are not allowed.
Ground blinds must be identified with the owner's name and must be removed at the end of the hunting season. Natural materials may be used but only of dead and down branches.
Camping is allowed in the backcountry only at designated sites with a valid permit. Front country camping is allowed only at drive-in campgrounds.
Park Rangers and Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers are authorized to enforce hunting and fishing regulations within the Lakeshore.
Nearby Attractions
Grand Island National Recreation Area
Located in Lake Superior about one-half mile offshore from Munising, Grand Island has been a National Recreation Area since 1988.
The 22 square mile island's scenic natural beauty and interesting history make it an attractive place for a full day's mountain bike trip or a backcountry overnight stay.
Hiawatha National Forest
The Hiawatha has two units, located in the eastern and central Upper Peninsula. District Ranger Offices are located in Manistique, Munising, Rapid River, Sault Ste. Marie, and St. Ignace.
With 100 miles of shoreline on three Great Lakes, the Hiawatha is uniquely positioned to provide visitors with a range of nationally distinct recreation opportunities.
Seney National Wildlife Refuge
The wildlife refuge is a great place for visitors of all ages and abilities to watch wildlife.
Established in 1935 as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife, today the refuge supports a variety of wildlife by providing a rich mosaic of habitat. Nearly two-thirds of the refuge are wetlands.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls is the second largest state park in Michigan, covering more than 38,000 acres. Most of the park is undeveloped with few public roads.
Two natural waterfalls on the Tahquamenon River give this park its name. The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. It has a drop of over 50 feet and width of some 200 feet.
Michigan Iron Industry Museum
Amid the forested ravines of the Marquette Iron Range, the Michigan Iron Industry Museum overlooks the Carp River and the site of the first iron forge in the Lake Superior region.
In that pioneer enterprise was the seed of the Michigan iron industry that flourished for 125 years and still produces nearly one-quarter of the iron ore mined in the United States. Today, museum exhibits, audiovisual programs and outdoor interpretive paths depict the large-scale capital and human investment that made Michigan an industrial leader.
Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale’s physical isolation and primitive wilderness challenged human use for centuries. Ironically, today it has become the island’s main attraction.
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale National Park is over 75% water, and 99% of its land mass has been federally designated wilderness. Visitors come to experience the moods and magic of this island park through hiking its trails, paddling its inland waterways, exploring its rugged coast, or venturing into the depth of its shipwrecks. Adventure, discovery, solitude, and simple living are all important parts of an Isle Royale experience.
Keweenaw National Historical Park
Just as the penny in your pocket has touched many lives and places, so has the copper of the Keweenaw Peninsula. From over 7,000 years ago to the 1960s, people quarried or mined the rich copper deposits of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Copper built thriving industries and cosmopolitan communities in this remote, wild place. Today, Keweenaw National Historical Park preserves the history and heritage of copper mining.
Father Marquette National Memorial
Father Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary, established Michigan's earliest European settlements at Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace. He lived among the Great Lakes Native Americans from 1666 to his death in 1675. During those years, Father Marquette mastered several native languages and helped Louis Jolliet map the Mississippi River.
On a rise overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, the Father Marquette National Memorial tells the story of that 17th-century missionary-explorer and the meeting of French and Native American cultures deep in the North American wilderness.
Pukaskwa National Park ... Wild Shore of an Inland Sea
Pukaskwa National Park's exceptional beauty is revealed in its vistas of Lake Superior and in the rugged, ancient landscape of the Canadian Shield and northern forest. The spirit of the wilderness envelopes those who explore this special place. The only wilderness national park in Ontario, Pukaskwa was established in 1983 to protect 1878 square km of an ecosystem that features boreal forest and Lake Superior shoreline.
Pukaskwa National Park is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore's sister park.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is truly a mosaic of natural and cultural wonders. Along its 35 miles of Lake Superior shoreline are over 15 miles of towering sandstone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and enormous sand dunes. And there are waterfalls, lighthouses, lakes, streams, and forest to enjoy.
Many attractions are accessible either by automobile or by short footpaths. Hikes can be as short as 100 feet or as long as nine miles. Only your enthusiasm and energy will limit your distance.
