Houghton County - 37 Attractions You Must Visit

Mont Ripley Ski Area, is a winter wonderland. Enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes for a taste of some of North America's best skiing. With terrain and slopes suitable for all levels from newbies to experts, Mont Ripley guarantees something for everyone and makes it easy for the whole family to enjoy their time on the mountain. Although primarily known as a downhill ski resort, they also offer plenty of activities like snowshoeing and snowtubing in the winter months.

North Canal Township Park provides visitors with a range of outdoor activities and amenities to enjoy. The park boasts 24 acres of lush green grass, perfect for family picnics or even just a peaceful stroll through the trees. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails to view ponds, creeks and wetlands, as well as camping and fishing opportunities. The main attraction of the park is its well-maintained playgrounds that provide hours of entertainment for children of all ages.

ortage Canal Lift Bridge stretches across the Portage Lake and River. This iconic bridge is one of the engineering achievements of the 20th century and offers a spectacular view of this part of the state. The bridge, which stands at a height of 350 feet and is 250 feet wide, consists of two vertical plates that are counterweighted and connected by steel cables. The upper plate rises 70 feet to make way for passing boat traffic while its lower plate remains fixed in place.

Prickett Lake is a stunning sight to behold. Nestled deep in the woods and surrounded by soaring pines and birch trees, the lake glistens like a pearl and reflects the surrounding beauty in its waters. Its crystal clear depths are home to some of Michigan's finest bass, walleyes, northern pike and panfish which only add to its attraction for seasoned anglers. On sunny days, visitors flock to the area to take advantage of its serene atmosphere with peaceful canoe trips down the on-site river.

The Quincy and Torch Lake Cog Railway, is a scenic attraction that takes riders on a journey through the Keweenaw Peninsula. The experienced engineer guides guests through historic sites of the region on a one hour ride with views of natural forests, lakes, shorelines and more. It's been in operation since 1874 and is the oldest functioning railway business in the United States.

Quincy Dredge Number Two, is one of the two of its kind. It was built in 1902 and is still mostly intact despite its age. Developed for copper mining and servicing, the bulk of its work was done during World War II when it mined on an aggressive schedule to keep up with wartime needs. Today, it serves as a landmark and reminder of times past. It stands 105 feet tall and 120 feet long, weighing approximately 2000 tons when fully loaded.

Quincy Mine, one of the most productive copper mines in the United States. Established in 1859, Quincy Mine was originally established as a spot for small-scale prospecting and exploration. However, this quickly evolved into an industry that saw it become one of the world's largest copper producers. With two 2,000 feet long shafts and multiple underground chambers, over 350 miles of tunnel were eventually created.

The Quincy Smelting Works is a sprawling complex of industrial buildings that was once the world's largest copper refinery. Founded in 1846, the smelter prospered throughout the 19th century with its operations expanding to process ore extracted by nearby mines. Over time, the demand for refined copper waned and the works closed down in 1907. However, historical preservationists were able to save some of its structures which now serve as a reminder of the area's proud mining history.

Rabbit Island is a small island, which is part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and lies just north of Isle Royale National Park. The island is composed of igneous rock and provides a habitat for numerous species of birds and waterfowl. visitors can see the remains of stone walls built by settlers who once lived on the island. Despite its size, It offers several recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, swimming, diving, and nature observation.

Redridge Steel Dam is located in Houghton County, Michigan. The dam was constructed in 1912 to retain and regulate the Ontonagon River for hydroelectric generation purposes. It stands over 39 feet high and spans a length of 804 feet in a single arch design. It is an example of an early 20th century technology that is still being used today as it continues to be put to use through its operation as a public hydropower generating facility owned by WPPI Energy.

This is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful scenery and abundance of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a day on the majestic Lake Superior, or take part in outdoor pursuits such as hiking and hunting. The city also boasts an array of historic sites that are worth exploring, including a century-old suspension bridge and numerous museums devoted to local history. For those looking for something more offbeat, Sturgeon Falls offers several unique attractions.

Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to glimpse untouched nature. Spanning roughly 5,500 acres of terrain and water falls, this magnificent wilderness is home to plenty of majestic wildlife. From red-headed woodpeckers to coyotes and black bears, visitors can experience the beauty of nature during all four seasons. With various hiking trails and scenic overlooks, Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness truly is an adventurer’s paradise!

Superior Grand Traverse Bay,is located in Houghton County, Michigan. Not only does the area offer breathtaking natural beauty and endless recreational opportunities, but it has a rich history as well. Tourists can explore rock formation and waterfalls at Bond Falls or visit the beautiful Laughing Whitefish Falls. The numerous public beaches make it easy to get out on the waters of Lake Superior for sailing, fishing, kayaking or just relaxing by the shore.

The Calumet Theatre, has been entertaining audiences since 1900. The venue is a blend of the old and the new, with a classical interior and modern amenities. Most recently renovated in 2015, the theatre has 3 floors with 1,000 seats as well as a fully equipped stage and a variety of dressing rooms. Over the years it has welcomed many different kinds of performers including singers, comedians, and dancers. Its weekly film series is particularly popular among movie-goers.

The Houghton County Historical Society is an organization dedicated to preserving and presenting interesting information about the history of Houghton County, The museum features interpretive exhibits that tell stories about the area’s past and its people. Not only does the society offer a wealth of entertaining opportunities for locals and tourists alike to delve into their areas storied past, but it also sponsors lectures, special programs and more available to both members and non-members.

Torch Lake is a gorgeous natural wonder. Located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, it is the largest lake within Michigan with 19 miles of shoreline. With its crystal clear blue-green water and sandy white beaches, Torch Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike to go fishing, swimming and boating. Off the lake's shores you can find unspoiled nature with thick forests containing a variety of wildlife.

Twin Lakes State Park is a gem of the Midwest. Featuring lush, green forest and two crystal clear lakes, it offers plenty of recreational activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. There are trails available for hiking or biking throughout the park and camp sites for those who prefer to spend the night. The facilities within Twin Lakes State Park also include beach areas for swimming, picnic tables for outdoor dining and several playgrounds for children.