The Michigan Upper Peninsula, often referred to as the U.P., is a breathtaking region known for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by three Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, and Huron—this rugged area features dense forests, picturesque waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. One could explored an array of activities, from hiking, fishing to snowmobiling and skiing, making it a year-round destination.
Over the Columbus Day long weekend, we spend two days in the U.P., enjoying the start of fall season this year. One would probably asked, why did we only spend two days in this amazing place, well, the answer lies in our last minute decision to check out the U.P. and all the hotels/motels in the area are all fully booked. So, if anyone decides to visit over holidays, please make sure to book accommodation well in advance.
The phone signals are rather poor in the area, so do make sure to download offline maps before venturing in. It would be a good idea to bring some extra food, or instant noodle, microwaved food as there are not a lot of restaurants/groceries store in the area.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
On our first day, we set out on an unforgettable adventure along the Chapel/Mosquito Hiking Trail, a captivating 16 km loop that took us about 5.5 hours to explore. It was mid October and the weather was simply perfect, with a gentle breeze rustling through the trees and clear skies overhead, creating an ideal backdrop for our hike.
As we began our journey, we strolled leisurely through a magnificent forest, surrounded by towering trees that seemed to stretch toward the heavens. The vibrant hues of fall were just beginning to reveal themselves, with leaves transitioning into stunning shades of yellow and red, painting the landscape in a warm, golden glow. Each step felt like a dance with nature, as the crunch of leaves beneath our feet added to the symphony of the forest.
After about two hours of hiking, we reached a breathtaking highlight: Chapel Rock. This remarkable formation, standing proudly against the backdrop Lake Superior, is graced by a solitary white pine tree that has thrived for over 250 years. Its gnarled branches and resilient trunk spoke to the enduring beauty of nature, and we couldn’t help but pause to appreciate its majesty.
Continuing along the trail, we were rewarded with stunning views of the shoreline. The vivid turquoise waters of Lake Superior sparkled under the sun, contrasting beautifully with the greens, red and yellow of the surrounding landscape. As we gazed out across the water, we caught a glimpse of Canadian land in the distance, reminding us of the vastness and beauty of this incredible region.
Every moment on the trail was filled with awe and wonder, as we absorbed the sights, sounds, and scents of this pristine wilderness. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore truly left an indelible mark on our hearts, a perfect escape into nature’s splendor.
We would rate this an easy-moderate hike. Although the hike was relatively long, but most of the path was flat and easy to walk, with slight elevation in some of the path. As the cell phone signal along the route is very very weak/ close to non-existence, do download offline maps prior. We used an app called All Trails and it has been amazing so far helping us navigate our hikes in the USA, no affiliation here, just a very satisfied user.
Kitch-iti-kipi
On our second day, we visited Kitch-iti-kipi, also known as the Big Spring, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Nestled within the serene landscapes of Palms Brook State Park, Big Spring captivates visitors with its breathtakingly clear waters that bubble up from deep within the earth, creating a mesmerizing display that reveals a vibrant underwater ecosystem teeming with life.
The spring boasts a manually operated viewing platform, which provides an elevated vantage point for observing the stunning waters while ensuring that the delicate natural environment remains undisturbed. This interactive element makes the experience particularly enjoyable for families, as children can take turns helping to operate the platform, adding an educational and engaging aspect to the visit.
Finding Big Spring is a breeze, as it is easily accessible on maps and well-marked for visitors. Ample parking is available, allowing for a hassle-free arrival. A short, pleasant walk from the parking area leads to the viewing platform, which can accommodate a significant number of visitors, ensuring that everyone has a chance to appreciate the spring’s beauty without feeling crowded.
Overall, Big Spring is a must-visit attraction for anyone in the area, offering a unique opportunity to connect with Michigan’s natural wonders. Whether you’re looking to take stunning photographs, enjoy a peaceful moment by the water, or educate young minds about the fascinating aquatic life, this spring promises an unforgettable experience.
Even though our trip to the Upper Peninsula was just a brief two days, we quickly understood why so many people rave about its breathtaking beauty. The stunning landscapes and natural wonders captivated us at every turn. We’re already looking forward to returning—perhaps in winter—to explore the mesmerizing Eben ice caves and enjoy some thrilling snowmobiling adventures!