Keweenaw County - 31 Attractions You Must Visit

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About Keweenaw County

Keweenaw County is a picturesque area located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, just shy of the northernmost point of the state. This little slice of heaven is nestled between the Superior and Michigan lakes and draws visitors from all around the world to its wonderous beauty. Those who choose to make their home in Keweenaw County are welcomed by crisp fall days with stunning displays of autumn colors, tranquil summers filled with countless outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or fishing, an

Types of Attractions in Keweenaw County

Activities Around

List of Attractions in Keweenaw County

Agate Beach

Agate Beach is a mesmerizing destination with captivating views of Lake Superior and access to some of the most stunning beaches in the region. The beach has long been popular among nature lovers, who flock here to take part in activities like beachcombing, swimming, kayaking and fishing. Visitors have plenty of opportunities for sightseeing at Agate Beach as well, with observation decks situated at various points along the beach for maximum viewing pleasure.

Astor House Museum

Astor House Museum

Iconic Buildings

Museums

The Astor House Museum, is a historic house museum that serves as a testament to life in the region during the 1800s. The two-story building was originally constructed by early pioneers in 1860 and went through several restorations in addition to the addition of a kitchen and guesthouse. Today, visitors are welcomed into this unique museum where they can explore one of the best-preserved homes from the period as well as learn about objects related to 19th century life.

Barnes Lake

Barnes Lake

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Barnes Lake is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From fishing and boating to hiking and swimming, there is no shortage of activities. The clear blue waters provide stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests, while also providing ideal conditions for aquatic wildlife. For those looking to explore the great outdoors on land, the nature trails nearby are a great way to experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

Black Creek Nature Sanctuary

The Black Creek Nature Sanctuary is a tranquil sanctuary filled with natural beauty. The 120 area of mostly forested land provides refuge for a wide variety of wildlife including bald eagles, black bear, timber wolves, and deer. This unique wetland sanctuary includes boardwalks and trailless meadows where visitors can admire the diverse range of ecology in the area. There are several guided tours that allow visitors to explore this special place.

Brockway Mountain Lookout

Brockway Mountain Lookout

Viewpoints

1 Day Treks

Mountain Peaks

Brockway Mountain Lookout is one of the best places to experience the majestic beauty of the surrounding area. The lookout consists of a series of scenic gravel roads which slowly wind up the mountain and culminate at a stunning viewpoint, which overlooks over 3,000 miles of Lake Superior shoreline and rocky ledges. From here you can spot everything from bald eagles, to beaver dams and small lakes tucked away in the mountainside.

Cliff Mine

Cliff Mine

Outdoors- Other

Cliff Mine has been a remnant of activity from the area's early days. Serving as a copper mine from 1845 to 1918, it was one of the first and most prominent copper-mining sites in the area. Over time, Cliff Mine became known for its high-grade copper ore for its sulfuric content which helped make it a coveted resource that many other mines had difficulty producing. Although all operations ceased before World War II broke out, Cliff Mine still stands as a famous landmark.

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse

The Eagle Harbor Lighthouse is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful lighthouses in the state. Built in 1851, it marks a major shipping route for vessels entering Lake Superior from the Keweenaw Waterway. The two-story tower was constructed of fieldstone and brick, originally illuminated by an oil lamp until automation in 1922. It stands 54 feet tall and continues to light up brilliantly at night, guiding ships through this busy shipping lane.

Eagle River

Eagle River

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Eagle River is a 12.4-mile river spanning the rolling hills and glaciated landscape of the Upper Peninsula, Eagle River offers some of the most breathtaking scenery that Michigan has to offer. This beautiful natural habitat also serves as sanctuary for a variety of different animal populations such as birds, fish, beavers, muskrats and more. Additionally, Eagle River boasts plenty of recreational opportunities like camping, fishing and tubing during warmer months.

Eagle River Falls

Eagle River Falls is a truly beautiful sight to behold. The falls are made up of a series of short rapids and cascades framed by rocky cliffs along the river. The total drop over the three-quartered mile of river is about 50 feet, giving the whole area an incredible sense of energy and power. These features combined with the unique geology of the surrounding upland countryside provide visitors with a stunning and unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Great Sand Bay

Great Sand Bay

Beaches

Outdoors- Other

Great Sand Bay, is an unparalleled destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The stunning bay and surrounding forests provide recreation in abundance, with year-round activities available such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. In the summertime, you can enjoy endless days of sunbathing and lounging on the sandy beach. Winter brings a blanket of snow covering picturesque trails that offer miles of skiing opportunities. You can also explore some of the abandoned buildings.

Gull Rock Lighthouse

Gull Rock Lighthouse stands proudly off the coast of Keweenaw County, Michigan, as a beacon of safety for seafarers since 1867. Built by the United States Government's Lighthouse Board to warn ships from nearby shoals, this structure is comprised of cast-iron plates that are still as strong and steadfast today as when first constructed. It has had its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but was made stronger with each renovation and renovation after renovation.

Hatchet Lake

Hatchet Lake

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Hatchet Lake, has a great deal to offer visitors. From its gorgeous lake views and crystal clear waters perfect for fishing and swimming, to its verdant trails ideally suited for those seeking recreational hikes, Hatchet Lake offers something for everyone. Boating and kayaking are additional activities available for guests looking to explore further. The surrounding pines offer a sense of serenity that brings visitors back year after year.

Isle Royale (Menagerie Island) Lighthouse

Isle Royale lighthouse, has been guiding wayward ships to safety since 1855. Made of quarry-stone cut limestone, its elegant red and white base stands tall amongst the picturesque Lake Superior shoreline. The lighthouse was originally 71 ½ feet tall with an additional 24-foot tower added in 1898. Accompanied by a wood frame keeper’s quarters, the lighthouse is still intact and the lens is still used to direct ships across the lake at night.

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park

Outdoors- Other

Forests

National Parks

Isle Royale National Park is a breathtaking destination encompasses an expansive island chain separated from the mainland by Lake Superior and offering an abundance of outdoor activities for its visitors. With multiple trails and waterways, hiking, camping, and kayaking are just some of the activities available throughout the park. Additionally, there are boat tours that allow visitors to explore even deeper into wilderness areas on the many smaller islands off the main landmass.

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge

Iconic Buildings

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge is a stunningly beautiful and tranquil retreat in the heart of Michigan’s Keweenaw County. Situated just steps away from Lake Superior, this getaway is perfect for nature-lovers looking to explore the great outdoors. Here visitors can bask in panoramic views of untouched wilderness; enjoy seasonal activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and more; or simply sit back and relax by the lake side with a good book.

Keweenaw Rocket Range

Keweenaw Rocket Range

Outdoors- Other

Keweenaw Rocket Range is one of the most unique places on Earth. Situated near the stunning Lake Superior coastline, this site was used as a rocket launch facility during the height of the space race. From here, scientists and engineers developed and tested cutting edge technologies that powered brave astronauts to explore and learn about our universe. Each milestone reached at this range further pushed humanity's understanding of what is possible.

Lac La Belle

Lac La Belle

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Lac La Belle is a picturesque body of wate nestled among the lush forests and beautiful shores, this lake offers visitors a tranquil setting to take part in various outdoor recreational activities. Boaters can enjoy fishing or simply take in the breathtaking scenery while out on a leisurely cruise. Swimmable beaches provide a safe place for families and children to play in the sun, while more experienced kayakers can explore further out into the depths of the lake.

Lake Bailey

Lake Bailey

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Lake Bailey, is a must-see for outdoor lovers of all kinds. The crystal clear lake is surrounded by lush forest, inviting visitors to go boating, swimming, fishing and more. With nine miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of room for picnicking with friends or immersing yourself in nature. Campgrounds and vacation cottages are available for visitors looking for an extended stay. Lake Bailey is the perfect destination any time of year, with winter snowmobiling and ice fishing opportunities.

Lake Gratiot

Lake Gratiot

Lake/ River/ Ponds

Lake Gratiot is a serene body of water surrounded by lush green forests. The pristine lake contains six different species of fish and offers various recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and camping. In addition to nature-watching opportunities such as birding and observing wildlife, visitors are also able to participate in festivals held throughout the year. For those looking for a quiet place to relax and unwind, Lake Gratiot is the perfect escape.

Lookout Louise

Lookout Louise

Viewpoints

Outdoors- Other

Lookout Louise is a quaint favorite spot for locals and tourists looking to appreciate the county's stunning scenery. Thanks to its elevation of 885 feet, visitors can take in unrivaled views of Copper Harbor and nearby islands like Isle Royale and Gratiot Lake. Popular activities include mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and simply taking a leisurely stroll on the ridge. Whether you’re fortunate enough to experience one of Michigan's epic sunsets.

Map of attractions in Keweenaw County

Comments

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