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Munising, Michigan
The Top 10 Things To Do in Munising, Michigan

The Top 10 Things To Do in Munising, Michigan

Munising, Michigan has numerous local attractions, including the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the beautiful Alger Falls, and the remote and peaceful Grand Island National Recreation Area. The town also offers popular scenic spots like Munising Falls and a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

about matthew
Updated February 7, 2023
Hey there! I'm Matthew, I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.
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1. Pictured Rocks Cruises, LLC.

Pictured Rocks Cruises, LLC.

Pictured Rocks Cruises, LLC is an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service Department of the Interior, offering summer boat cruises to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a top vacation spot in Michigan. With over 50 years of experience, the cruises provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the most visually stunning 40 miles of shoreline on the Great Lakes.

The company offers three distinct Michigan cruises: the Classic Cruise, the Spray Falls Cruise, and the Sunset Cruise. Each of these day cruises are 2 1/2 to 3 hours long, and depart from the Munising, Michigan City Dock. The crew is available to assist with ticketing and safety instructions, and the captain provides narration, including a brief history of the tour boat, local area facts, and Michigan points of interest.

For those looking for unique vacation ideas, Pictured Rocks Cruises’ scenic boat tours are the perfect Michigan travel destination. These tours allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Great Lakes while learning about the history and culture of the local area. Book your next adventure with Pictured Rocks Cruises today and discover the breathtaking scenery that Michigan has to offer.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-2379

Address: 100 City Park Dr, Munising, MI 49862   

2. Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours

Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours

Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours, based in Munising, offers visitors a unique way to explore the depths of Lake Superior and its treasures. Since 1992, the company has been providing guests with an excursion back in time to the industrial age of American shipping history. On the 2-hour tour, guests will have the opportunity to witness a rare, fully intact wooden sailing ship that was built before the Civil War, as well as two different shipwreck sites, rock cliffs, caves, and a historic lighthouse.

In addition to the shipwrecks, guests will also have the chance to admire the beauty of Grand Island and Munising Bay. Grand Island is a place with a rich history, featuring sandy beaches and colorful sandstone cliffs and caves. The tour is a great opportunity to spot North American Bald Eagles, which are known to nest along the shoreline.

Tours are available daily from Memorial Day weekend until the end of September, and reservations are highly recommended. Don’t miss the chance to experience the natural underwater museum that Lake Superior has to offer and learn about the history of American shipping. Book your Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tour today!

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-4477

Address: 1204 Commercial St #1354, Munising, MI 49862 

3. Munising Mountain Bike Park

Munising Mountain Bike Park

Munising Mountain Bike Park is a non-motorized, multi-use trail system that offers a unique opportunity to experience nature in a new way. This park is ideal for mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing, trail running, and more. It is the perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers to enjoy the great outdoors.

The park was created by the Munising Bay Trail Network (MBTN), a local organization that was founded in 2012. MBTN’s mission is to build a singletrack trail system in the greater Munising Bay area, and it has been successful in managing several miles of singletrack trails that offer a diverse and challenging experience for riders and hikers. The organization is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and promoting sustainable recreation.

Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or just starting out, Munising Mountain Bike Park has something for everyone. The park’s trails are designed to be accessible to riders of all skill levels, and they offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The park also provides a boost to local commerce by attracting visitors to the area who are looking for outdoor activities. So come on out and enjoy the natural beauty of Munising Bay while getting a workout in the great outdoors!

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 202-1679

Address: 1001 W Munising Ave, Munising, MI 49862    

4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a breathtaking destination that offers travelers the chance to experience the natural beauty of Lake Superior. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the park is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs and pristine beaches that extend for miles. Visitors can hike the nearly 100 miles of trails and immerse themselves in the serenity of the northern woodlands.

In the spring, the trails are transformed into a wildflower wonderland, with a carpet of soft beauty covering the landscape. Summer provides warm days for basking, and the autumn transforms the scenery into a colorful display of orange, red, and yellow hues. Winter brings a raw, windy beauty with occasional bursts of sun-drenched snow.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to hike, relax on the beach, or take in the breathtaking views, this national lakeshore has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the natural beauty of Lake Superior.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-3700

Address: N8391 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862   

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5. The Curtains – Ice Climbing Wall

The Curtains – Ice Climbing Wall

The Curtains – Ice Climbing Wall is an exciting winter sport destination located at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This winter activity becomes more popular each year due to the perfect combination of cold temperatures, snow and waterfalls that create spectacular ice curtains and columns. With snow and ice usually present by mid-December and remaining until early April, this is the perfect time to enjoy ice climbing.

The Curtains – Ice Climbing Wall offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of ice climbing along the stunning 20-50 foot columns and blue ice curtains at several points along the inland cliff escarpment between Munising Falls and Sand Point. To access the nearest climbing areas, visitors can park at the Sand Point Beach parking lot and walk 1/4 to 1/2 mile back or start at the Munising Falls parking lot and walk/snowshoe the North Country Scenic Trail towards Sand Point.

Visitors are advised to be mindful of the narrow Sand Point Road with no shoulder, to watch for traffic and to be careful of slippery conditions. It is also important to not walk or snowshoe on the groomed ski trails in the area, to preserve the experience for everyone. So, gear up and head out to The Curtains – Ice Climbing Wall to experience the thrill of ice climbing and the beauty of nature at its finest.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-3700

Address: 1654, 1664 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862

6. Northern Waters Adventures

Northern Waters Adventures

Northern Waters Adventures is a well-established business founded in 1991, providing expert guided kayak tours along the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising, Michigan. With over 30 years of experience, Northern Waters Adventures has become a trusted name in the adventure tourism industry, known for its highly trained guides and a commitment to providing unforgettable experiences on the great Lake Superior.

One of the key features that sets Northern Waters Adventures apart from other adventure tour companies is their perfect safety record. They take great care to ensure that all of their tours are run with the highest standards of safety in mind, giving their customers peace of mind and allowing them to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, you can be confident that you are in good hands with Northern Waters Adventures.

With a dedicated team of highly trained guides and a passion for adventure, Northern Waters Adventures offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Their tours range from Miners Beach to Lovers Leap, offering a range of scenic vistas and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a more challenging adventure, Northern Waters Adventures has the expertise and experience to create a tour that’s perfect for you. So why not check them out for yourself and see why they have been a trusted name in adventure tourism for over 30 years?

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-2323

Address: E9051 M-28, Munising, MI 49862   

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7. Fort Superior Campground

Fort Superior Campground

Fort Superior Campground is a unique primitive camping experience located in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula. Nestled close to the renowned Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, this campground offers 25 tent-only campsites and boasts a stunning 140-foot hill that provides campers with a breathtaking view of Grand Island on Lake Superior. This serene setting offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature and provides direct hiking access from the private property into the Hiawatha National Forest.

The campground provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and offers campers the opportunity to connect with nature in a unique and memorable way. Despite being surrounded by miles of wilderness, Fort Superior Campground is just minutes away from local town attractions, lakeshore, and waterfalls, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. With its breathtaking views and unparalleled access to nature, Fort Superior Campground is an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and authentic camping experience.

In conclusion, Fort Superior Campground is an excellent choice for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-packed hiking and camping trip, or simply a peaceful getaway, this campground provides a unique and unforgettable experience that you will never forget.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 202-4556

Address: N7685 Old Golf Course Rd. Munising, MI 49862  ​ 

8. Valley Spur

Valley Spur

Valley Spur is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts located in Alger County, Michigan. This outdoor paradise offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, biking, hiking, and nature-watching. Nestled in the Hiawatha National Forest, Valley Spur is located just 5 miles west of Munising, Michigan and can be easily accessed via M-94.

Valley Spur offers a 27-mile cross-country ski trail system, which is groomed daily from December to March, providing excellent conditions for both skate and classic skiers. With a deep snow base and accumulations from the lake effect snows of Lake Superior, the area provides a unique skiing and snowshoeing experience. Maps of the trails are available in the lodge and can also be printed online. In the summer months, the ski trails become popular for mountain biking and hiking, and there is even a designated single track mountain bike trail managed by the Munising Bay Trail Network.

Valley Spur offers a variety of scenic loops, including hardwood forests, hemlock groves, pine stands, and a small stream, making every trail an interesting experience. Trail “B”, the namesake of the business, is 2.8 miles and follows an old logging railway spur. Expert trail “G” is located on a terminal moraine and several downhill runs follow old glacial stream beds. The H loop, an intermediate trail, goes through an old growth eastern hemlock stand, estimated to be around 300 years old. With its diverse landscapes and trails, Valley Spur is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-4918

Address: M-94, Munising, MI 49862   

9. Grand Island Ice Caves

Grand Island Ice Caves

Grand Island Ice Caves is a unique winter attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The ice formations created by water seeping out of the sandstone cliffs are breathtaking and are a popular activity for winter visitors. With its stunning curtains and columns of ice, the ice caves are a must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural wonders of the area.

Visitors can view the ice formations by walking along Sand Point Road, from the Sand Point Beach parking lot, towards the inland cliff escarpment between Munising Falls and Sand Point. The ice generally begins to form by mid-December and remains until early April, providing plenty of time for visitors to experience the beauty of the ice caves. The hike is not strenuous, but visitors should be prepared to walk a quarter to half a mile on the road to reach the base of the escarpment.

The ice formations are not accessible through designated trails, but visitors can see the cliffs and ice through the forest as they walk along the road. Over time, the snow-packed trails created by visitors provide a visible path up to the formations, making it easier for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of the ice caves. Grand Island Ice Caves is a truly unique winter experience and a must-visit for anyone who loves natural beauty and the great outdoors.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-3700

Address: Munising , MI 49862

10. Local Waterfalls

Munising Waterfalls

The local waterfalls are located in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The area is known for its abundance of stunning waterfalls, many of which can be found within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The waterfalls are the result of water running over a hard limestone sandstone called the Au Train Formation, which offers a spectacular contrast to the softer sandstone layers just below it.

Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking to the various waterfalls and taking in the breathtaking views. It’s important to exercise caution while hiking, as the trails can be uneven and pets must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times. To preserve the natural beauty of the area, pets are not permitted at any of the waterfalls.

For those who love the great outdoors, Waterfalls is the perfect destination to experience the power and majesty of nature. From the moment you step onto the trails, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and the sound of rushing water. Come explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and experience the beauty of the waterfalls for yourself.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (906) 387-3700
Address: Munising , MI 49862  

About the Author
about matthew
Matthew Mellinger
Hey there! I'm Matthew, and I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family of four. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.

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