About Baraga County
Of the many attractions of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, perhaps no region enjoys as many as Baraga County and its immediate environs. This is a county rich in natural beauty enhanced by the change of seasons which provide something for everyone.
The focal point of the region is spectacular Lake Superior, a major reason for the migration of people to this area seeking the ideal retirement site or vacation hideaway. One never tires of looking at or being near the "shining big-sea water." In addition to Lake Superior, dozens of smaller lakes provide opportunity for boating, fishing, swimming or time spent near the water.
Herman, a small community southeast of L'Anse had 390+ inches of snow in winter '96-'97. In winter, snow is always in abundance and has been a magnet for snowmobilers and other winter sports enthusiasts. Baraga County has over 150 miles of groomed trail in the region, and the sport has proven a major economic boost. There is also ice fishing, and the "silent sport" of cross-country skiing is enjoyed at the Pinery Lake Cross-Country Ski Trail, just east of L'Anse.
Spring brings a rebirth of the many beautiful waterfalls, including those on the Sturgeon River, Silver River, and Falls River, which runs through L'Anse. In early May, the revitalized Huron River provides some of the best steelhead fishing in the Upper Peninsula. Spring's promise of wildflowers and fruit of great variety includes lupine, daisies, queen anne's lace, wood lily, black-eyed susan and apples, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and thimbleberries. Newly arrived fawns with their ever-watchful mothers are also evident.
Summer sometimes takes a while arriving, but is worth the wait. Every Thursday evening, open-air concerts feature regional artists in downtown L'Anse's newly developed waterfront on Keweenaw Bay. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and sit back to enjoy the music.
Points of interest include the shrine dedicated to Bishop Baraga who, in his time was a strong advocate for the Indians of the area. A statue of Bishop Baraga six stories high overlooks Keweenaw Bay. An Indian cemetery near L'Anse is where Ojibwa buried their dead by enclosing the remains in a box or birch bark shell. Another "must-see" is Canyon Falls, sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of the U.P.
For the "high pointer," Mount Arvon is Michigan's highest point, and for the hiker there are many trails and a segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail. Or hike the Sturgeon River Gorge area and climb to the top of Silver Mountain or Little Mountain which offer spectacular views.
In fall, Baraga County's color rivals that of any place in the country. Visit the Skanee area or Pt. Abbaye for a true panorama of color.
Lodging in the area is diverse and in all price ranges. Motels, cottages, cabins, and campgrounds have all the amenities needed when you're on vacation.
The people of Baraga County, with their different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, contribute to the charm of the area. Along with the county's other attributes, they will keep you coming back again and again.
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