Summer Information For Western Upper Peninsula In Michigan






Jul 3, 09

Western Upper Peninsula
Michigan

More than 100 Picturesque Waterfalls

A large part of the western Upper Peninsula region, which includes Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties, is covered by the Ottawa National Forest. Lake Superior borders the area to the north. And being the largest fresh water lake in the world, it has miles of sandy beaches.

These resources combined with the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Lake Gogebic and the Ottawa National Forest provide for endless recreational opportunities. Hiking, bicycling, fishing, canoeing, boating and camping can all be enjoyed in this Great Lakes' paradise.

The area is known for its waterfalls, boasting more than 100 in all. As its rivers and streams flow toward Lake Superior, the waters create beautiful cascades. Some of the most picturesque include Agate Falls, Bond Falls, Cascade Falls, O Kun De KunFalls, Union Gorge and Trap Falls.

Fishing enthusiasts can't help but find just the right spot to cast their lines. Lake Superior, Lake Gogebic, the Flintsteel and Ontonagon rivers, and the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon Riverall offer excellent opportunities. And the options don't stop here. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and Ottawa National Forest have more than 700 lakes and thousands of miles of streams to choose from. Fish for trout, salmon, walleye, perch, steelhead and bass.

Literally hundreds of square miles of wilderness are just waiting to be explored and hiking is a great way to see it. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park alone encompasses 60,000 acres and is one of the few remaining large wilderness areas in the Midwest. A variety of trails offer access to this pristine area. The Union Mine/Gorge Scenic Trail walks hikers through mid-1800s mining activity.

A Rich History

The area has a history of logging and mining. One of the largest underground copper mines in the world still operates in White Pine.

The Old Victoria Restoration Site, the oldest standing log home village in the country, is located near the village of Rockland. These hand-hewn cabins were built in 1899 as housing for the miners at the Victoria Copper Mine.

The Ontonagon County Historical Museum is said to be the best place to learn about the region's history. Ontonagon County also is the site of the first telephone system in Michigan.

Several events entice summertime visitors to this region. The Ontonagon County Fair, Lake Gogebic Summer Fest, Juhannes Day Celebration and River Fest are just a sampling of what can be found.

Stratton Mountain Resort