About Houghton County

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.