20 Attractions to Explore Near Bonanza Falls

Nestled in the heart of Ontonagon County, Michigan, lies the charming community of Union Bay. This small town is surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Superior and the Ottawa National Forest, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike through the forest, fish in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the sandy beaches. In addition to natural wonders, Union Bay also boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1800s.

This crystal-clear body of water offers visitors unbeatable scenic views and plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The lake sits within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, surrounded by lush wooded forests and majestic mountain ranges. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from city life or exciting recreational activities like fishing, canoeing, boating or swimming, Lake of the Clouds has something for everyone.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon County, Michigan is a breathtaking natural wonder. Spanning over 60,000 acres, the park boasts an endless array of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore the dense forests that are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and moose. The park is also situated on the shore of Lake Superior, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of the largest freshwater lake in the world.

Lake of the Clouds Overlook is a breathtaking spot located in Ontonagon County, Michigan. From this view, visitors can see an incredible panoramic view of the lake, the surrounding forests, and the mountains. It's a peaceful and serene location that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The overlook also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

Nestled deep within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, lies one of the Upper Peninsula's most spectacular sights - Lake of the Clouds. Set within a natural amphitheater-shaped valley and surrounded by hardwoods and conifers, this pristine blue lake offers a breathtaking panoramic view from an altitude of over 1,000 feet. Visitors can hike the Escarpment Trail or enjoy a leisurely drive up the winding access road to reach the scenic overlook.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a delightful escape from city life. Spanning over 60,000 acres and containing over 90 miles of gorgeous terrain, this park offers something special for everyone. This area is renowned for its beautiful views of Lake Superior, breathtaking waterfalls, dense forestland and vast valleys. The park also offers plenty of recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing and camping.

The Ontonagon River is a beautiful natural wonder that runs through Ontonagon County, Michigan. It covers a distance of almost 75 miles and is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The river is home to various species of trout such as brown trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout. The natural beauty of the river is enhanced by the surrounding forests and rock formations that make it a sight to behold.

The Ontonagon Lighthouse, located in Ontonagon County, Michigan, is a magnificent structure that has stood the test of time since its construction in 1866. This historic lighthouse stands 38 feet tall and was designed to guide ships safely into the Ontonagon River. Built of brick and limestone, the lighthouse features a distinctive red brick tower with a black lantern. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history of this remarkable structure.

Ottawa National Forest, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and wildlife. With over 900,000 acres of pristine forest, clear lakes, and sparkling streams, visitors can indulge in a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The forest encompasses the rugged Porcupine Mountains, offering stunning vistas of the Lake Superior shoreline. keep an eye out for moose, black bears, and bobcats, among other wildlife that call the forest home.

Nestled in the heart of Ontonagon County, lies one of the largest inland lakes in the Upper Peninsula, Lake Gogebic. Measuring over 13,000 acres, this picturesque lake is surrounded by serene forests and rolling hills, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers flock to its waters to catch a variety of fish, including walleye, perch, and northern pike. For those looking for a more relaxing day on the water, Lake Gogebic is perfect for swimming, boating, and kayaking.

Manabezho Falls is one of the state's most scenic and visited waterfalls. Located off of the M-28 highway in Neebish Township, the waterfall is accessible from either side of the US-2 bridge. The falls drop an impressive fifty feet down a rocky limestone escarpment, surrounded by lush hardwood forests. Visitors can hike to and explore the crest of Manabezho Falls. Boaters are also able to take advantage of its natural spectacle.

Manido Falls, set within a wooded oasis of pines and hardwoods, the Falls are an impressive 30 feet high with a width of 150 feet. The waterfalls make a great picnic spot as they offer plenty of places to sit and take in the views. Visitors can admire the spectacular natural beauty while listening to the powerful cascading falls that thunder down the cliffs below. Being such an iconic landmark in Gogebic County, locals love visiting the area for hikes, trout fishing or simply just relaxing.

The Porcupine Mountains, offer spectacular beauty and diverse recreational activities. Home to the second-largest state park in Michigan, these rugged hills are renowned for their sweeping vistas, deep rivers and amazing waterfalls. Hiking trails provide an opportunity to observe local flora and fauna including freshwater fish and deer. The 60,000 acres of primeval forest also feature remarkably clear lakes that are perfect for swimming and paddling in the warmer months.

The stunning Nawadaha Falls, is one of the state's hidden gems. There are two falls at this spectacular location; the upper and lower falls. The upper fall stands 31 feet high and has a steep cascade that moves from an impressive pool below. Visitors can enjoy walking along trails built around a pond below, which leads to dramatic views of both the upper and lower falls. Additionally, there is a nice picnic spot at the top of the trail where visitors can have lunch or rest.

Lake Gogebic is one of the largest natural lakes nearly 8 miles long and 3/4 of a mile wide, Lake Gogebic offers ample opportunity for activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. Each season brings something new with inhabitants taking advantage of warmer months to bask in the sun or try their luck at catching bass, pike, walleye and muskie. The vastness and obscurity of this lake provide a sense of tranquility that allows visitors to truly escape their everyday lives.

The Ottawa National Forest is a stunning natural wonder. Spanning over 990,000 acres, it is home to majestic pine and aspen forests, vivid wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife. It is also full of recreational activities like skiing, boating, canoeing and camping, making it the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to experience nature up close. The nearby Escanaba River offers fishing opportunities year-round for people in pursuit of brook trout, walleye and more.

Nestled in the beautiful forests of Ontonagon County, lies a hidden gem known as O Kun-de-kun Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its crystal clear waters cascading down a series of rocky ledges, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. The falls are easily accessible via a short hike through the woods, making it the perfect spot for a day trip or picnic with family and friends.

The Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse is a picturesque beacon standing tall on the shores of Ontonagon County, Michigan. Built in 1895, the lighthouse's history adds to its charm, as it once guided sailors through Lake Superior's rocky terrain. Today, the lighthouse stands as a beacon of hope and an ode to Michigan's maritime legacy. Visitors can enjoy walks along the scenic beaches, take in the stunning scenery and learn about the lighthouse's history.

Lake Gogebic State Park, is a great spot for swimming, camping, and fishing. Thrill-seekers can test their mettle on the park's ATV trails, while nature aficionados can explore the bountiful forests. During winter months there are opportunities to ski and snowshoe around the 13-mile long lake. There are modern cabins available to rent onsite as well as campsites with amenities such as electric hookups and fire rings. Stunning overlooks abound, allowing visitors to take in the beauty.

Black River is an idyllic spot located within the western Upper Peninsula. Spanning seven miles, this river supplies all kinds of recreational activities for local residents, including kayaking and fishing. Nature enthusiasts flock to this tranquil destination for birds watching; there are over 18 species that call the region home. Adjacent to a variety of parks and trails makes it easy to explore the stunning beauty of Black River.