Copper Harbor Travel Guide

Discover Copper Harbor, a charming town in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with this detailed guide featuring top places to visit, hiking and biking trails, food and drink scenes, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor is a hidden gem in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and local charm. This town occupies the tip of Keweenaw Peninsula, overlooking Lake Superior. Copper mining was one of the town’s main industries in the 1800s, and today it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Copper Harbor

Here are the top places to visit in Copper Harbor:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Copper Harbor offers a few museums and historical places for those interested in learning about local history and culture:

  • Fort Wilkins State Park: This park contains a restored 1844 army military outpost, where visitors can explore the barracks, hospital, guardhouse, and other buildings.
  • Copper Harbor Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse, built in 1866, has been restored and is open to visitors during the summer months.
  • Keweenaw County Historical Society: This museum features exhibits on local mining history, as well as the daily life of early settlers and Indigenous peoples.

Natural Attractions of Copper Harbor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Copper Harbor is known for its breathtaking natural surroundings. Here are some top attractions for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Hunter’s Point: This scenic spot provides stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest. It’s a great place for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
  • Brockway Mountain Drive: This scenic drive offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area, with several lookout points along the way.
  • Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary: This protected area contains the largest remaining old-growth white pine forest in Michigan, with several hiking trails for visitors to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with several trails offering stunning views and challenging terrain. Here are some top routes:

  • Copper Harbor Trails: This network of mountain biking trails offers over 40 miles of challenging terrain, with stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness.
  • Porcupine Mountains: Just a short drive from Copper Harbor, this state park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to expert level, highlighting scenic views and waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Copper Harbor: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in Copper Harbor:

  • Kayaking in Lake Superior: Experience the beauty of Lake Superior up close with a guided kayaking tour.
  • Fishing: Lake Superior is a popular spot for fishing, where visitors can catch lake trout, steelhead, and salmon.
  • Guided Snowmobile Tours: During the winter, take a tour through the surrounding forests and hills on a snowmobile.

Week-Long Itinerary for Copper Harbor

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Copper Harbor:

Day Activity
1 Fort Wilkins State Park and Copper Harbor Lighthouse
2 Keweenaw County Historical Society and Hunter’s Point
3 Brockway Mountain Drive and kayaking tour
4 Copper Harbor Trails and nature hike at Estivant Pines
5 Day trip to Porcupine Mountains
6 Guided snowmobile tour
7 Fishing on Lake Superior

Food and Drink Scene of Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor has a small but vibrant food and drink scene, with several local establishments offering delicious cuisine and craft beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties: This local dish consists of a pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables - a traditional meal brought over from the Cornish miners who settled in the area.
  • Whitefish: This freshwater fish is a popular menu item in Copper Harbor, served smoked, grilled, or fried.

Local Beverages

  • Keweenaw Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, with a taproom located in Houghton, just a short drive from Copper Harbor.
  • Copper Harbor Wine Cellars: This winery produces a range of wines from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Copper Harbor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Copper Harbor offers several accommodations for visitors, ranging from comfortable hotels to rustic cabins:

  • King Copper Motel: A charming motel with clean, comfortable rooms and a convenient location in downtown Copper Harbor.
  • Fort Wilkins State Park: Stay in one of the rustic cabins or campsites inside the park for a unique outdoor experience.
  • Brickside Brewery: This brewery offers a cozy guesthouse, perfect for those looking for a relaxed and homey atmosphere.

What to Buy in Copper Harbor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Copper Harbor:

  • Copper Jewelry: Copper Harbor is known for its copper mining history, and visitors can find unique jewelry pieces made from the local metal.
  • Local Art: Several galleries and shops in Copper Harbor offer works by local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.
  • Keweenaw Coffee Works: This local coffee roaster offers a variety of blends using beans from around the world, as well as locally sourced ingredients like maple syrup and blueberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor has a vibrant local culture, with a strong focus on community and natural resources. Visitors should be respectful of the natural surroundings and the traditional Indigenous land the town occupies.

Best Time to Visit Copper Harbor

The best time to visit Copper Harbor is from late spring to early autumn, with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F and vibrant fall colors in September and October. Winters can be harsh and snowy, but provide opportunities for snowmobiling and winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Copper Harbor

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife.
  • Support the local businesses and artisans.
  • Take time to explore the history and culture of the area.

Don’t:

  • Disrupt the environment or wildlife.
  • Litter or leave garbage in natural areas.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor is relatively safe, but visitors should take normal precautions such as securing valuables and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Copper Harbor

There are no major health concerns in Copper Harbor, but visitors should be aware of the presence of ticks and mosquitoes during the summer months and take appropriate precautions.

Getting to Copper Harbor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Copper Harbor is located in a remote area of the Upper Peninsula, but there are several transportation options for visitors:

Airports Near Copper Harbor

  • Houghton County Memorial Airport: The closest airport to Copper Harbor, offering daily flights to and from major cities in the Midwest.

Bus Stations Near Copper Harbor

  • Hancock Station: Offers daily bus services to and from major cities in the Midwest.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is the easiest way to access Copper Harbor and explore the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor is a small town and can easily be explored on foot or bicycle. Visitors can also rent a car or use a ride-sharing service to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Copper Harbor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Copper Harbor is a great starting point for exploring other attractions in the Upper Peninsula, or even venturing into nearby Canada. Here are some suggestions:

  • Isle Royale National Park: This remote wilderness area is an isolated island in Lake Superior, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
  • Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada: This Canadian city is just a few hours’ drive from Copper Harbor and offers cultural attractions and outdoor activities, as well as scenic views of Lake Superior.

Conclusion

Copper Harbor is a charming town with a strong focus on natural resources, community, and local culture. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the town’s attractions, activities, and local customs, making it a great resource for those planning a visit to this hidden gem in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

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