Alger County - 47 Attractions You Must Visit

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About Alger County

Alger County is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and encompasses a total area of 2,983 square miles. Founded in 1885, this rugged wilderness is home to around 9,600 people who are proud to call it their home. Alger County boasts a variety of scenery from the Au Sable River Valley and Big Spring Creek to forests filled with rolling hills and uplands dotted with standstone outcroppings. The outdoor enthusiast will find plenty to do here; there are numerous lakes for fishing, hiking trail

Types of Attractions in Alger County

Activities Around

List of Attractions in Alger County

Alger Falls

Alger Falls

Waterfalls

Alger Falls is one of the most stunning wonders of nature located on the Junior and Trenary Creek near Munising, this iconic waterfall towers as high as 70-feet and offers a magnificent view for all who visit. From its landscape composed of majestic forests and lush meadows to the delightful wildlife found in the area, Alger Falls is an unmissable natural attraction for any outdoor enthusiast.

Au Sable Light Station

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.

Au Train Falls

Au Train Falls

Waterfalls

Au Train Falls is a picturesque sight, that cascades from a height of 40 feet and creates a tranquil atmosphere as the water flows into Au Train Lake. Visitors often explore the area on foot or by boat, appreciating the beautiful scenery and wildlife found around the lake. In particular, visitors often get to catch glimpses of Ospreys fishing in the waters. Both canoeing and kayaking are popular activities at Au Train Falls, perfect for those who want to experience nature up close.

Au Train Lake

Au Train Lake

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Au Train Lake is an idyllic spot located in Alger County, Michigan. It offers visitors one of the best year round fishing experiences they can find in the Upper Peninsula. The lake is home to many varieties of fish, including walleye, perch and whitefish. Boaters will enjoy exploring the winding shoreline and there are plenty of spots for swimming and relaxing near the water. With its abundance of wildlife and stunning views, it truly is a sight to behold for all nature lovers.

AuTrain beach

AuTrain Beach located on the shore of Lake Superior, visitors can explore the sandy beach, rolling dunes, rocky coves and lush greenery that make this destination a favorite amongst locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to relax with a book or kayak with friends, AuTrain Beach has something for everyone. With plenty of family-friendly amenities including restrooms, pavilions to rent and grills so you can barbecue during your visit.

Beaver Basin Overlook

Beaver Basin Overlook

Viewpoints

Outdoors- Other

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.

Bridalveil Falls

Bridalveil Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful natural oasis. The 30-foot waterfall cascading off of Sandstone Hill sends crystal clear spring water tumbling down the side into a tranquil pool below. This spectacular sight has attracted hikers, photographers and nature enthusiasts alike for generations. The surrounding terrain consists of rolling hills and dense evergreen forest, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing afternoon of exploration and appreciation.

Chapel Beach

Chapel Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy the diversity of nature. Its freshwater beach stretches nearly one hundred acres and features sandy white shores, limestone ledges, as well as a variety of wildlife that range from crayfish to herring gulls. The beach also offers a number of recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking and bird watching. For those looking for something more adventurous there is scuba diving around the ledges and cliffs.

Chapel Falls

Chapel Falls

Waterfalls

Chapel Falls, is a tranquil escape amongst the great outdoors. Widely known for its plethora of recreational activities such as hunting,hiking and fishing, many visitors flock to this picturesque location every year. Rich in culture and history, Chapel Falls remains a hotspot for tourists desiring to explore the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. From churches to museums and art galleries - it is no surprise that Chapel Falls continues to be a popular vacation destination.

Chapel Rock

Chapel Rock

Outdoors- Other

Rock Formations

Chapel Rock, is a stunning geological formation surrounded by vast recreational opportunities. It's one of the premier destinations for outdoors activities such as hiking trails and swimming among other adventurous activities. The rock was formed from centuries of erosion, creating an incredible structure that features towering cliffs and sheltered areas with stunning views overlooking Munising Bay.

Eben Ice Caves

The Eben Ice Caves located on the aptly-named Cave Point Road near Lake Superior, the interior of the caves is always filled with several feet of ice, providing both surreal beauty and intriguing exploration potential. Temperatures always remain below freezing inside, allowing visitors to experience a rare sight of frozen walls and flooring. Adventurous types will also find plenty to explore in the caves since their icy depths reach nearly 500 feet into the ground.

Elliot Falls

Elliot Falls

Waterfalls

Elliot Falls, is an outdoor escape to delight any hiker or camper. Curving around the Escanaba River, the rugged terrain and rushing waterfalls of Elliot Falls make it an ideal destination for those seeking an adventurous outdoors experience. With three campgrounds and 20 miles of wooded trails, there are opportunities for campers to explore the land. Visitors can witness some of nature’s finest work along the many clear rivers and streams found at Elliot Falls.

Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse

Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse is a historic beacon that provides a vital service to boaters navigating the Great Lakes region. The original lighthouse was built in 1868 and funded through a special act of Congress. Over time, it has required repairs and periodic upgrades throughout its lifetime. Today, this iconic lighthouse stands at 40 feet tall on a rocky perch offering views of both Lake Superior's North Shore and Grand Island itself.

Grand Island Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse

Grand Island Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse is a historic landmark on the beautiful Lake Superior. Built in 1890 at a cost of $8,703 dollars, it was part of the efforts to improve navigation on one of the Great Lakes' busiest transportation routes in the aim to encourage travelers and ships. The lighthouse originally featured a four-story tower where it has since been reduced to just two stories due largely to increased automation with advances in technology.

Grand Island Township

Grand Island Township

Outdoors- Other

Grand Island Township is a beautiful slice of nature situated in Alger County, Michigan. It is bordered by Herring Bay to the east and Au Sable River to the west. The small community here is made up of homeowners and visitors that take advantage of the abundance of fishing spots, camping sites, and hiking trails surrounding them. Many people also come for jet skiing, boating, kayaking or snowmobiling on nearby lakes as well.

Grand Portal Point

Grand Portal Point

Outdoors- Other

Grand Portal Point is a stunning destination, that offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Grand Portal Point is home to many nature trails and boardwalks, with paths that allow visitors to take in the stunning scenery. In addition, it provides ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water-related activities. The stunning night sky here cannot be missed either, with stars seemingly dancing across the horizon.

Grand Sable Dunes

Grand Sable Dunes

Outdoors- Other

Dunes

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.

Hiawatha National Forest

Hiawatha National Forest

Outdoors- Other

Forests

Hiawatha National Forest offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the beauty of nature. Spanning a total of 894,836 acres, hikers and campers can explore lush forests and traverse shorelines on their journey through the many scenic trails, beaches and bays. After a day of intensive trekking or sunbathing along lakeshore drifts, adventurers can catch a glimpse of the majestic wildlife that call Hiawatha home, such as black bear, timber wolves and bald eagles.

Kingston Lake

Kingston Lake

Lake/ River/ Ponds

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.

Lake Superior Ice Cave

Lake Superior Ice Cave is a popular spot for outdoor adventurers. It is tucked away in the North Country, close to Grand Marais and is known for its thick ice walls and icy environment. Entering this spectacular cave requires patience and careful examination of your surroundings, as the entrance can be difficult to find. Once you’re inside, you are met with an incredible view of a frozen underworld filled with legendary images and stalagmites formed thousands of years ago.

Map of attractions in Alger County

Comments

For more information about Alger County, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alger_County,_Michigan