Houghton County has something of interest
for everyone in an environment of natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. A
rich history awaits you on your visit to Houghton County. This region was known
for copper mining dating from
the 1840's and its story is told in the many museums of the area. Visit the
Quincy Mine in Hancock for a glimpse into the workings of one of the great
mining companies, or visit the Keweenaw National Historical Park, headquartered
in Calumet, is working with local groups to preserve Houghton County's historic
past.
The past and the present co-exist well in Houghton County. Michigan Tech University,
in Houghton, is a world-class science and engineering college while students at Finlandia
University in Hancock, work with art & design companies in Finland and other
countries. You can attend diverse cultural events at both universities as well
as at the historical Calumet Theatre and enjoy an evening at the opera during
the Pine Mountain Music Festival. The Vertin Gallery in Calumet and the Copper
Country Community Arts Center in Hancock highlight the incredible talent of
local and regional artists.
The great outdoors has an equal share in the popularity of
Houghton County. World-class cross-country ski trails and bike
trails, miles of well-groomed snowmobile trails, the Mt. Ripley
Ski Area and Portage Lake ensure that your visit includes plenty
of physical activity, no matter what season you visit. Walleye
fishermen, kayakers, boaters and tour boats all share the waterway
and several hiking trails and wildlife areas are located along its
shores.
The abundant
waters of the winter snowmelt make area waterfalls, such as
the Hungarian, truly
spectacular in spring. Activities abound in
the summer - you can enjoy seafood at the Bridge Fest/Seafood Fest
in Houghton, pasty at the Past Fest in Calumet, or local berries
at the Strawberry Festival in Chassell. Rockhounds from around the
country descend on Houghton County in August for the Copper
Country Mineral Retreat. Fall colors explode on the banks of
Portage Lake in the fall and you can view breathtaking reds,
oranges and yellows driving along any of Houghton County's
backcountry roads. Winter mean skiing, snowmobiling and a visit to
Michigan Tech University's world famous Winter Carnival snow
statues in February.
Cities and towns
offer browsing at a variety of local shops,
name brand stores and
galleries. A wide selection of dining options, brew pubs, a winery and nightlife will keep you busy in the evening and when you're
ready to retire, consider one of our many and varied lodging
facilities or campgrounds. Be sure to allow several days to
experience all that Houghton County has to offer.