Porcupine Mountains Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Porcupine Mountains in Michigan with our comprehensive travel guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Porcupine Mountains

Located in Upper Peninsula, Michigan, Porcupine Mountains State Park is a destination that offers something for everyone. The park is home to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which features ancient old growth forests, spectacular waterfalls, rugged peaks, and stunning vistas. Every year, thousands of visitors come to hike, bike, camp, fish, and ski in this natural wonderland.

List of Places to Visit in Porcupine Mountains

Here are some of the most popular destinations to visit while exploring Porcupine Mountains:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ontonagon Historical Museum: A great place to learn about the history and culture of the region, from mining to logging.
  • White Pine Copper Mine: Take a tour of this historic copper mine for a glimpse of the mining industry’s life back in the 1800s.
  • Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum: This museum displays the wreckage of ships that went down in Lake Superior and offers a comprehensive history of Great Lakes maritime history.

Natural Attractions of Porcupine Mountains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake of the Clouds: Situated at the north end of the Porcupine Mountains, Lake of the Clouds is a stunner. The stunning overlook of the lake truly lives up to its name.
  • Presque Isle River: The river is a popular destination for waterfalls, scenic hiking, and guided fishing trips.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Porcupine Mountains

Porcupine Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, with miles of trails that traverse the park’s rugged terrain. Some of the most notable trails are:

  • Escarpment Trail: A 4.2-mile trail provides breathtaking vistas of Lake of the Clouds and the surrounding area.
  • Lake Superior Trail: This trail follows the rocky shores of Lake Superior for roughly 17 miles, providing stunning views of the largest freshwater lake in the world.

Best Things to Do in Porcupine Mountains: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, some of the other popular activities to enjoy while visiting Porcupine Mountains include:

  • Kayaking: Traverse the banks of Lake Superior or venture into inland waterways for kayaking.
  • Skiing and snowshoeing: With more than 87 miles of cross-country skiing trails, Porcupine Mountains is a perfect place for winter adventure.
  • Fishing: With plenty of rivers and streams, visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Porcupine Mountains

Day 1: Arrive at Porcupine Mountains. Visit the Ontonagon Historical Museum, White Pine Copper Mine, and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum.

Day 2: Hike the Escarpment Trail and the Lake of the Clouds Trail.

Day 3: Take a kayak trip or fishing trip on the Presque Isle River.

Day 4: Explore the Porcupine Mountains on horseback.

Day 5: Skiing at the Porcupine Mountains downhill area or cross-country ski on the park’s many winter trails.

Day 6: Explore the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Day 7: Visit local gift shops or go souvenir shopping before departing from Porcupine Mountains.

Food and Drink Scene of Porcupine Mountains

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties: A popular dish made with beef, pork, onion, potatoes, and vegetables wrapped in a flaky crust.
  • Cherry Pie: Michigan is well-known for its cherry production, and no trip to the Upper Peninsula is complete without trying their delectable Cherry Pie.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Upper Peninsula features some of the best breweries in Michigan such as the Upper Peninsula Brewing Company and Keweenaw Brewing Company.
  • Wine: Sandstone Winery in Houghton is a must-visit place to try some locally made wine.

Where to Stay in Porcupine Mountains: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Some of the best places to stay in Porcupine Mountains include:

  • Porcupine Mountains Ski Lodge: A ski-in and ski-out hotel with stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Lake of the Clouds Resort: Located on the shores of Lake of the Clouds, this resort offers both cabins and hotel-style rooms.

What to Buy in Porcupine Mountains: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artisan Crafts: Visit the various gift shops to buy unique handmade souvenir items such as pottery and jewelry.
  • Local Maple Syrup: The Upper Peninsula is known for its high-quality maple syrup, and many shops offer locally harvested syrup.

Local Culture and Customs of Porcupine Mountains

The local culture in Porcupine Mountains is heavily influenced by the region’s mining history. Visitors should take the time to explore the area’s culturally significant attractions to gain a deeper appreciation for this unique heritage.

Best Time to Visit Porcupine Mountains

The best time to visit Porcupine Mountains is from May to October when the weather is mild, and the foliage is vibrant. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Porcupine Mountains

Do:

  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas of the region.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the trails can be quite rugged.
  • Take time to appreciate the natural beauty of the region when hiking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t carry firearms on park property.
  • Don’t litter in the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Porcupine Mountains

Visitors to Porcupine Mountains should be aware of the following safety tips:

  • Always carry a map and compass when hiking.
  • Seek local advice when going off-trail.
  • Be cautious regarding wildlife such as wolves and bears.

Health in Porcupine Mountains

Visitors should be prepared with the right gear and clothing for the weather conditions in Porcupine Mountains. Insect repellents, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated are recommended.

Getting to Porcupine Mountains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Porcupine Mountains

The closest airport is Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX), which is located 52 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Porcupine Mountains

Ontonagon Bus Service operates a transit line that provides service throughout the Upper Peninsula.

Other Options

Visitors can travel by car and park at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

How to Get Around in Porcupine Mountains

The best way to explore the Porcupine Mountains is on foot or bike. The park’s hiking and biking trails allow visitors to access some of the stunning vistas and natural attractions of the region.

Where to Go Next from Porcupine Mountains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular destinations near Porcupine Mountains include:

  • Copper Harbor: A charming Upper Peninsula town that offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as biking, kayaking, and hiking.
  • Isle Royale National Park: The closest national park to Porcupine Mountains, Isle Royale is a pristine wilderness home to wolves and moose.

Conclusion

Porcupine Mountains is a natural wonderland that offers something for everyone. Whether you love hiking, fishing, skiing, or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, Porcupine Mountains has it all. Take the time to explore the area’s culturally significant attractions and local delicacies, and you’re guaranteed to have a memorable visit.