Lakenenland - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Laughing Whitefish River, is a beautiful and unique spot to explore. The scenic river originates from the inland lakes of the Upper Peninsula and flows for about 80 miles before emptying into Lake Superior at Whitefish Bay. Along its path, visitors will find lovely lakefront beaches, peaceful forests of pines and cedars, as well as abundant wildlife that one might catch a glimpse of while canoeing or kayaking on the picturesque waterway.

Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park is an idyllic and peaceful getaway spot with lush, pristine forests and enchanting waterfalls. Situated in the Ottawa National Forest, the park is named after the great cascading waterfall located near Lake Superior - The Laughing Whitefish River. It also boasts a number of smaller waterfalls, nature trails to explore and a myriad of opportunities for kayaking amongst towering cliffs and waterways.

The Marquette Harbor Lighthouse located at the mouth of Lake Superior, it has helped to guide vessels for over 160 years. This lighthouse stands 64 feet tall and currently acts as a tourist attraction for those looking for a unique experience on the coast. Connected to its base is the original 50-foot lighthouse tower from 1867 that is still used today. Visitors may take guided tours of the facility and learn about the history of Marquette Harbor while also enjoying picturesque views of Lake.

The Marquette Maritime Museum, celebrates the area's deep maritime history and highlights its ongoing relationship with the Great Lakes. Visitors are able to explore a variety of exhibits highlighting early Native American life, lumber schooners and freighters that have navigated the Great Lakes for over 100 years, and learn about the Lightkeepers who took on the great responsibility of maintaining lighthouses throughout Michigan.

Ellwood A Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. Situated on the serene shores of Lake Superior, the park offers something for everyone! Spend a morning exploring miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking. Afterwards, relax with a picnic lunch along the beach. After dark, find a spot near the lake shore to watch the beautiful Northern Lights or hunt for agates washed ashore from centuries-old Lake Superior shipwrecks.

The Lower Harbor Ore Dock is an engineering marvel. Built by the Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad in 1895 at a cost of $500,000, the Lower Harbor Ore Dock is a 2,400 foot long ore dock with a depth of 44 feet that was used to transfer iron ore from train cars to ships for transport. With 24 chutes leading from the shoreline and sides, each with a capacity of 110 tons per minute, it was one of the most efficient docks of its time with minimal spillage.