20 Attractions to Explore Near Muskallonge Lake

Muskallonge Lake State Park is definitely a destination to add to anyone’s vacation wish list this summer. Spanning over 500 acres, there are plenty of activities available at the park from hiking and biking trails, to kayaking and fishing opportunities on the crystal-clear waters of Muskallonge Lake. With 12 rustic campsites located directly on the pristine beach it is perfect for overnight camping trips with friends or family members.

Two Hearted River is an idyllic area for camping and fishing, providing visitors with a true back-to-nature. Consisting of two branches that come together to form the larger river, One and Two Hearted Rivers attract anglers from around the world in search of steelhead and trout. Aside from its wealth of wildlife, there are numerous sights for those who choose to explore by foot or canoe. The area’s breathtaking views make it the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Pickle Barrel house is an iconic landmark nestled in the scenic Alger County of Michigan. It was originally built as an early retail establishment in 1867 and still stands today, having weathered years of use and abuse. The unique turret-style architecture and its wooden barrel design make it a popular destination for sightseeing and photographs. Its briny history can be traced all the way back to 1893 when rival store owners put pickles in barrels to gain an edge on their competition.

Sable Falls, is one of the region's most picturesque waterfalls. Surrounded by lush forestland, the 30-foot drop of Sable Falls crashes into a deep pool below full of large river stones, making it a prime destination for adventurers and travelers alike. Visitors to the falls can find plenty to do in the area, from hiking nearby trails and enjoying a picnic on the riverside to fishing and kayaking downriver. With its breathtaking view and scenic backdrop, Sable Falls is surely an ideal spot.

Crisp Point Lighthouse, is a picturesque structure with a powerful past. Built in 1904, it was utilized to warn ships of the treacherous shoals that surrounded Lake Superior. The beloved lighthouse has been preserved with careful renovations throughout the years and changed from manual operation to automation in 1971. Today, visitors can enjoy striking views of Lake Superior from atop the 128-foot tower and learn French River's lighthouse history through guided tours.

Tahquamenon Falls is a stunning natural wonder that should not be missed. Consisting of two sets of falls - the upper, featuring a single 50-foot drop and the lower, with a series of five smaller falls cascading around an island - the falls are fed by the larger Tahquamenon River. Surrounding the area there is lush vegetation and plenty of wildlife to observe. Visitors have claimed to see river otter and deer around these parts.

Grand Sable Dunes are a unique phenomenon that can be found in the Alger County, Michigan area. These stunning dunes are more than five miles long and feature an elevation of up to 240 feet, making them truly majestic to behold! The brilliantly white dunes of Grand Sable look comparable to beaches one might find near oceans, though they are made out of sand derived from glacial terrain.

Tahquamenon Falls Lower Falls is a sight to behold. Located in the majestic Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the Lower Falls is a beautiful and powerful waterfall that cascades from the Tahquamenon River. Spanning more than 200 feet across with a drop of nearly 50 feet, it is easily one of the state's most impressive natural attractions. Visitors can rent boats to take them right up to this awe-inspiring wonder or simply stand back and admire its majesty from land.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park lays along the Eastern Upper Peninsula shoreline and includes over 50,000 acres of trails, forests and campgrounds that offer guests a unique and extraordinary opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of nature's finest features. The highlight of this park is the majestic Tahquamenon Falls - which are 300-foot cascades that drop off to a five mile stretch of river ending in the vast expanse of Lake Superior.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a breathtaking sight that must be seen to be believed. Spanning 50,000 acres of land and featuring nearly 4 miles of the Upper Tahquamenon River, the park is home to a set of colossal waterfalls over 200 feet wide and more than 20 feet high. Not only does it offer spectacular views; there are plenty of hiking trails for visitors to explore as well as a multitude of opportunities for recreational fishing, camping and exploring nature year-round.

The Tahquamenon Logging Museum is a must-visit destination for any fan of the state’s industrial history. Here, visitors can get an intimate look at life in the Upper Peninsula’s bygone logging era, along with its tools, clothing and culture. With interactive exhibits highlighting different aspects of logging work, a recreated lumber camp and the museum’s sawmill and shingle mill preserved from the 1800s, there’s plenty to learn and see here.

Vermilion Point Nature Preserve, protected area spans 499 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes and bald eagles. Covering a full mile of shoreline along Lakes Huron and George, the area can be explored on a series of boardwalks that wind through the well-maintained trails. The preserve offers spectacular views and scenery no matter where you turn; its vibrant wetlands host a wide selection of birds and plants that change with each season.

The Au Sable Light Station is part of the National Register of Historic Places and provides a unique glimpse into the history of American lighthouses. Originally constructed in 1874, the 60-foot tower still serves as an active navigational aid for ships crossing Lake Superior even though its Fresnel lens was decommissioned in 1971. As one of the oldest surviving structures on the Great Lakes, it was purchased by a nonprofit organization called 'Friends of the Lighthouse.

Lake Superior Overlook offers one of the most breathtaking views of Lake Superior and its surroundings. The overlook is a great place for nature lovers to explore due to its wooded pathways, rocky shorelines and wildflower-filled meadows. It's also a great place to watch birds in flight as it is home to numerous species of both migratory and non- migratory birds. Visitors can also expect spectacular sunsets while they take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Grand Sable Lake is situated within the Hiawatha National Forest. The crystal-clear lake is teeming with fish, wildlife and many species of vegetation, making it a popular destination for anglers, hikers and nature lovers alike. Grand Sable Lake offers picturesque views throughout the year with its rocky shoreline; visitors can spend hours exploring the surrounding woods and searching for rare plant life. Swimming is also a popular activity at this tranquil location.

North Manistique Lake is a 7.64 square mile lake located in Luce County, Michigan. Its crystal-clear waters and sandy shoreline make it a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and numerous watersports. In addition to its recreational appeal, the lake is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, bluegill and panfish. Hundreds of visitors flock each year to explore the lake's scenic beauty and take part in its abundant activities.

Kingston Lake is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On its 64 acres of water, visitors can fish from any one of the several nearby docks or take out their operated boats to explore its placid waters. With panoramic views of the surrounding trees and hills, guests can truly unwind while listening to the peaceful sounds of nature. An expansive picnic area completes the outdoor experience, providing both shaded and sunstruck spots for a leisurely meal.

Trappers Lake is a nature-lovers paradise. Surrounded by miles of forest, it offers crystal clear waters and fresh air reminiscent of centuries gone by. This 810 acre lake offers excellent fishing year round with an abundance of pike, bass, bluegill and more. Trappers Lake perfect for swimming with its sandy beaches and shallow waters near the shoreline. For those wanting to explore further, a variety of kayak and canoe rentals are available for day use.

Beaver Basin Overlook situated high atop the Porcupine Mountains, this unique spot offers expansive mountain views and provides a convenient access point for popular activities like skiing, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors parking in the nearby lot will be rewarded with an elevated vantage of the woods below from one of the several benches onsite. Paved paths allow exploration of this picturesque retreat even during winter months.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is a great place for the whole family to explore the rich history of the area. The museum offers visitors a chance to dive into stories about 19th and 20th century shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, with exhibits and artifacts from notable wrecks throughout the series of lakes. There are also interactive elements such as life-size recreations that put guests at the center of exciting accounts from disaster on Lake Superior - both educational and entertaining.