Keweenaw Peninsula Travel Guide

Explore the best of Keweenaw Peninsula with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Keweenaw Peninsula

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Keweenaw Peninsula is a region known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural significance. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore its attractions and experience its unique vibe. Home to a variety of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and local cultures, Keweenaw Peninsula offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Keweenaw Peninsula

From museums and historical landmarks to scenic views and outdoor adventures, Keweenaw Peninsula has a lot to offer. Here are some of the must-visit sites:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Quincy Mine: a former copper mine turned museum that offers tours of the underground mine.
  • Copper Harbor Lighthouse: an iconic lighthouse that offers tours throughout the year.
  • Historic Fort Wilkins State Park: a fort built-in 1844 during the copper rush.
  • Keweenaw National Historical Park: a park dedicated to preserving the region’s history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Keweenaw Peninsula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brockway Mountain Drive: a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: a beautiful park with 90 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning scenery.
  • Isle Royale National Park: this remote island is a designated wilderness area with hiking, camping, and boating opportunities.
  • Kayaking along Lake Superior: a great way to explore the Keweenaw Peninsula shoreline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Keweenaw Peninsula

Keweenaw Peninsula has a lot of scenic trails, and hiking or biking along them is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the best trails:

  • The Copper Harbor Trails: over 35 miles of single-track biking trails, divided into 11 loops.
  • Estivant Pines National Area: a beautiful 500-acre virgin white pine forest with hiking trails.
  • The North Country Trail: a national scenic trail that passes through the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Best Things to Do in Keweenaw Peninsula: Activities and Tours

  • Paddleboarding: Rent a paddleboard and explore the shoreline of Lake Superior.
  • Snowmobiling: A great winter activity with plenty of trails in the area.
  • Nordic skiing: Cross country skiing is a popular winter activity in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
  • Winter camping: A unique way to experience the winter landscapes of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Keweenaw Peninsula

For those planning a week-long trip to Keweenaw Peninsula, we recommend the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit Quincy Mine and take a tour.
  • Day 2: Explore historic Fort Wilkins State Park.
  • Day 3: Go kayaking or paddleboarding along the shoreline of Lake Superior.
  • Day 4: Take a scenic drive down Brockway Mountain Drive.
  • Day 5: Spend the day hiking in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
  • Day 6: Snowmobile or go Nordic skiing in the beautiful winter landscapes of the region.
  • Day 7: Visit Copper Harbor Lighthouse and take a tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Keweenaw Peninsula

Keweenaw Peninsula has a rich food and drink scene, with many local specialties and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasty: A traditional dish brought over by Cornish miners, consisting of pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Smoked whitefish: A local delicacy of smoked whitefish.
  • Finnish Pancakes: Small, thin pancakes that are a local favorite for breakfast.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Keweenaw Brewing Company is the largest brewery in the region and offers a wide variety of beers.
  • Cider: The locals’ favorite cider is made from apples grown on the peninsula, which gives it a unique flavor.

Where to Stay in Keweenaw Peninsula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Keweenaw Peninsula has a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Keweenaw Mountain Lodge: A beautiful lodge located in the heart of the region, with cozy rooms and great amenities.
  • AmericInn by Wyndham Calumet: A budget-friendly option with complimentary breakfast and beautiful surroundings.
  • National Park Hotel: A luxurious hotel located near Keweenaw National Historical Park.

What to Buy in Keweenaw Peninsula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting the Keweenaw Peninsula, there are many souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are a few ideas:

  • Keweenaw Copper: A unique souvenir that can be found in many gift shops and museums.
  • Finnish Hard Bread: A traditional Finnish bread that is a local delicacy.
  • Lake Superior Agates: These are semi-precious gemstones found along the shores of Lake Superior.

Local Culture and Customs of Keweenaw Peninsula

Keweenaw Peninsula has a rich culture and history, with influences from its Native American roots, Finnish heritage, and copper-mining history. The locals are friendly and hospitable, with a strong sense of community.

Best Time to Visit Keweenaw Peninsula

The best time to visit Keweenaw Peninsula is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is milder, and all outdoor activities are available. Winter is also an excellent time to visit for outdoor winter activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Keweenaw Peninsula

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Try traditional Finnish foods.
  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities available.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb natural habitats.
  • Enter closed or restricted areas.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Keweenaw Peninsula

Keweenaw Peninsula is a relatively safe area, but visitors should still take precautions when exploring the outdoors. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Wear appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Check weather conditions before heading out.
  • Be aware of wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitats.

Health in Keweenaw Peninsula

Visitors should be aware of the risk of Lyme disease in the area as it is prevalent. Ticks inhabit the forest, and it is essential to take precautions when hiking through the woods. Bring insect repellant, keep covered, and do regular tick checks when in the countryside.

Getting to Keweenaw Peninsula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Keweenaw Peninsula is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and access is best by car. There are also some limited bus and shuttle options available.

Airports Near Keweenaw Peninsula

The nearest airport is the Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX), with daily flights from Detroit and Minneapolis.

Bus Stations Near Keweenaw Peninsula

Greyhound Bus Services serve Houghton, which is about a thirty-minute drive from the peninsula.

Other Options

Renting a car from surrounding major cities like Green Bay, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis, is a great option for those who want to explore the area on their terms.

How to Get Around in Keweenaw Peninsula

We recommend that visitors rent a car to explore the region, as public transportation options are limited. There are also options to rent bicycles, like in Copper Harbor, or snowmobiles during the winter months.

Where to Go Next from Keweenaw Peninsula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can continue their journey from Keweenaw Peninsula with these nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Tahquamenon Falls State Park: A beautiful park with many hiking trails and stunning waterfalls.
  • Mackinac Island: A historic island located on the border of lower Michigan and Upper Peninsula, accessible only by ferry.
  • Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: An archipelago of islands in Lake Superior located just across the border in Wisconsin.

Conclusion

Keweenaw Peninsula is an excellent destination for those who love history, culture, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. This comprehensive guide has highlighted the must-visit attractions, outdoor adventures, accommodations, food scene, and local culture of the region. A trip to Keweenaw Peninsula is truly a unique, unforgettable experience.



    Copper Harbor
    Laurium and Calumet