18 Attractions to Explore Near Isle Royale National Park
Top Activities Near Isle Royale National Park
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Hatchet LakeHatchet Lake, has a great deal to offer visitors. From its gorgeous lake views and crystal clear waters perfect for fishing and swimming, to its verdant trails ideally suited for those seeking recreational hikes, Hatchet Lake offers something for everyone. Boating and kayaking are additional activities available for guests looking to explore further. The surrounding pines offer a sense of serenity that brings visitors back year after year.
Isle Royale (Menagerie Island) LighthouseIsle Royale lighthouse, has been guiding wayward ships to safety since 1855. Made of quarry-stone cut limestone, its elegant red and white base stands tall amongst the picturesque Lake Superior shoreline. The lighthouse was originally 71 ½ feet tall with an additional 24-foot tower added in 1898. Accompanied by a wood frame keeper’s quarters, the lighthouse is still intact and the lens is still used to direct ships across the lake at night.
Mount Ojibway TowerThe Mount Ojibway Tower is a great place to take in the beauty of Lake Superior and the surrounding area. Standing at 100 feet tall atop Copper Peak, the observation tower was built in 1964 to provide breathtaking views of both the pristine lake and distant mountains. A unique feature of this tower is its three levels of viewing platforms. Visitors can choose from elevated, enclosed gazebo platforms or an open-air deck for spectacular 360 degree panoramic views!
Rock Harbor LighthouseThe Rock Harbor Lighthouse, is an iconic piece of history. Built in 1847 and still standing proud to this day, its purpose was to serve as a guide for ships navigating through the treacherous waters of Lake Superior. Its light shines brightly over the town below and can be seen from miles away. It is a prime example of architecture from the area in the 1800s and has withstood nearly two centuries of ferocious winter storms on Lake Superior due to its solid rock foundation.
Rock HarborRock Harbor is a picturesque fishing village nestled at the tip of Lake Superior. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, Rock Harbor boasts breathtaking views and offers plenty of recreational activities to enjoy. Fishing enthusiasts will love its plentiful opportunities for deep-sea angling, while those looking for a more relaxed vacation can take gentle boat cruises along the harbor or do some bird watching at the local park.
Rock of Ages LighthouseRock of Ages Lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses on Lake Superior. Established in 1908, it stands at a height of 124 feet and is a beacon of navigation for ships traversing the lake. The lighthouse was commissioned by the US Government to replace three other lighthouses that had become damaged beyond repair due to the harsh weather conditions on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Today, this historic site still serves as a navigational aid for many ships.
Lookout LouiseLookout Louise is a quaint favorite spot for locals and tourists looking to appreciate the county's stunning scenery. Thanks to its elevation of 885 feet, visitors can take in unrivaled views of Copper Harbor and nearby islands like Isle Royale and Gratiot Lake. Popular activities include mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and simply taking a leisurely stroll on the ridge. Whether you’re fortunate enough to experience one of Michigan's epic sunsets.
Passage Island LighthousePassage Island Lighthouse is a one of a kind historic structure. Its beautiful granite tower stands 120 feet tall, and has been beautifully restored since it's days as an early navigational aid. The 1924 lighthouse had to be abandoned during the harsh Michigan winters due to damage done by Lake Superior ice buildup, but in 2013 restoration began. A new construction was built over the original foundation and now visitors are drawn to see its unique charm.
Eagle RiverEagle River is a 12.4-mile river spanning the rolling hills and glaciated landscape of the Upper Peninsula, Eagle River offers some of the most breathtaking scenery that Michigan has to offer. This beautiful natural habitat also serves as sanctuary for a variety of different animal populations such as birds, fish, beavers, muskrats and more. Additionally, Eagle River boasts plenty of recreational opportunities like camping, fishing and tubing during warmer months.
Eagle River FallsEagle River Falls is a truly beautiful sight to behold. The falls are made up of a series of short rapids and cascades framed by rocky cliffs along the river. The total drop over the three-quartered mile of river is about 50 feet, giving the whole area an incredible sense of energy and power. These features combined with the unique geology of the surrounding upland countryside provide visitors with a stunning and unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Great Sand BayGreat Sand Bay, is an unparalleled destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The stunning bay and surrounding forests provide recreation in abundance, with year-round activities available such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. In the summertime, you can enjoy endless days of sunbathing and lounging on the sandy beach. Winter brings a blanket of snow covering picturesque trails that offer miles of skiing opportunities. You can also explore some of the abandoned buildings.
Eagle Harbor LighthouseThe Eagle Harbor Lighthouse is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful lighthouses in the state. Built in 1851, it marks a major shipping route for vessels entering Lake Superior from the Keweenaw Waterway. The two-story tower was constructed of fieldstone and brick, originally illuminated by an oil lamp until automation in 1922. It stands 54 feet tall and continues to light up brilliantly at night, guiding ships through this busy shipping lane.
Black Creek Nature SanctuaryThe Black Creek Nature Sanctuary is a tranquil sanctuary filled with natural beauty. The 120 area of mostly forested land provides refuge for a wide variety of wildlife including bald eagles, black bear, timber wolves, and deer. This unique wetland sanctuary includes boardwalks and trailless meadows where visitors can admire the diverse range of ecology in the area. There are several guided tours that allow visitors to explore this special place.
Cliff MineCliff Mine has been a remnant of activity from the area's early days. Serving as a copper mine from 1845 to 1918, it was one of the first and most prominent copper-mining sites in the area. Over time, Cliff Mine became known for its high-grade copper ore for its sulfuric content which helped make it a coveted resource that many other mines had difficulty producing. Although all operations ceased before World War II broke out, Cliff Mine still stands as a famous landmark.
The Keweenaw Snow ThermometerKeweenaw Snow Thermometer created in 1990 by resident Gary Piper, it is believed to be the only snow thermometer in the world that records both temperature and amount of snowfall. Standing thirty-four feet tall and composed of railroad rails topped with an old car jack, it utilizes a threaded rod mounted inside each rail to measure the density of snow. This impressive structure also records temperatures from -60F to +120F and tells the date, time, and temperature when observed at its base.
Lake BaileyLake Bailey, is a must-see for outdoor lovers of all kinds. The crystal clear lake is surrounded by lush forest, inviting visitors to go boating, swimming, fishing and more. With nine miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of room for picnicking with friends or immersing yourself in nature. Campgrounds and vacation cottages are available for visitors looking for an extended stay. Lake Bailey is the perfect destination any time of year, with winter snowmobiling and ice fishing opportunities.
Keweenaw Waterway Upper LighthouseKeweenaw Waterway Upper Lighthouse, is a historic beacon of hope that stands as a reminder of maritime history. This 64-foot tall cast-iron lighthouse was built in 1866 and guided ships around the heavily trafficked copper mining area near Lake Superior. The lighthouse also provided harbor security. Now preserved and cared for by the Keweenaw Historical Society, this lighthouse is still open to the public so you can tour it any time of year.
McLain State ParkMcLain State Park is a special getaway for nature-lovers. From the rolling waves on Lake Superior and endless white sand beach, to the picturesque lighthouse perched atop the park's highest point, there's something for everyone who loves being close to nature. The many trails through the park range from easy strolls through cedar groves, to more challenging hikes that lead to spectacular lake views. Camping is also available, with both upgraded sites and rustic cabins available.
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Know more about Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National ParkIsle Royale National Park is a breathtaking destination encompasses an expansive island chain separated from the mainland by Lake Superior and offering an abundance of outdoor activities for its visitors. With multiple trails and waterways, hiking, camping, and kayaking are just some of the activities available throughout the park. Additionally, there are boat tours that allow visitors to explore even deeper into wilderness areas on the many smaller islands off the main landmass.