An Explorer’s Guide to Things to Do at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The mineral-stained Pictured Rocks and Grand Island rise from Lake Superior. This 40+-mile stretch of nationally protected shoreline is between Munising and Grand Marais in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is a rugged, beautiful place where waterfalls cascade over towering sandstone cliffs, forest trails lead to secluded beaches and every bend in the path feels like a discovery. Whether you visit in summer or fall, it delivers the kind of awe that sticks with you long after the trip is over.

From cliff cruises and kayaking to scenic hikes and peaceful beaches, here’s how to experience the best of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Grand Island National Recreational Area:

Boat/Kayak | Overlooks | Hiking | Waterfalls | Beaches | Historical and Cultural Sites | Fall Color | Tips | Lodging

Start by Getting Your Pass

All visitors 16 years or older must have a Park Entrance Pass, whether coming into the park on foot, bicycle, motorcycle or other private, non-commercial vehicle. For a day or annual pass fees, plus a list of this year’s FREE entrance dates, learn more here. 

See the Colorful Cliffs by Boat or Kayak

• Pictured Rocks Boat Cruises — Departing from Munising City Dock, these popular narrated tours offer the most iconic way to experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from the water. You’ll pass towering sandstone cliffs, waterfalls plunging into the lake and colorful mineral-streaked rock faces. Choose the Classic Cruise, Spray Falls Cruise or a Sunset Cruise that adds golden-hour magic to the view.
• Pictured Rocks Kayaking — For a more immersive experience, these guided sea kayak tours let you paddle alongside the towering cliffs and into sculpted sea caves of Pictured Rocks. Tours begin with a boat shuttle that drops paddlers off near the best scenery, reducing the effort and maximizing time on the water. No experience is required, just a sense of adventure and a love of lake spray.
• Pictured Rocks Kayaking Tours — Paddling Michigan offers amazing guided kayaking and canoe tours suitable for all ages and skill levels. Their daily kayak tours range from two to eight hours in length, creating all-inclusive paddling experiences for family vacations, groups and work outings. Discover the majesty of Bridalveil Falls, Kissing Rock, Lovers Leap Arch, Caves of the Bloody Chiefs, Indian Head, Battleship Row, Chapel Rock and the sea caves of Pictured Rocks up close. Overnight glamping campsite packages are also available.  
• Riptide Ride — Riptide Ride combines a high-speed thrill with jaw-dropping views of the Grand Island National Recreational Area’s cliffs, caves and coves. Aboard a high-speed jet boat, you’ll cover 25 miles of shoreline with spins, splashes and serious adrenaline. It's sightseeing, taken to the max.
• Recreational Kayak and Boat Launches — Shallow boat ramps for canoes, recreational kayaks and other small boats are located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore at Little Beaver Lake and Grand Sable Lake. Trailerable boats may launch into Lake Superior at the Munising Municipal Ramp: Lake Superior, a mile west of the town harbor on M-28. Burt Township Marina also maintains a boat ramp in Grand Marais Harbor on Coast Guard Point Road.
  For your safety, only recreational sea kayaks can handle the conditions on Lake Superior. Never attempt to paddle this powerful freshwater sea in recreational canoes, kayaks or paddleboards. These types of craft, however, are ideal for exploring the park’s calm inland waters, such as Little Beaver Lake and Grand Sable Lake.

Scenic Overlooks

• Beaver Basin Overlook — This quiet overlook (accessible on a seasonal unpaved road) offers a peaceful view above the Beaver Basin Wilderness. While not as dramatic as some of the park’s cliffside vistas, it’s gorgeous in the fall when the forested hills burst with color.
• Grand Sable Lake Scenic Overlook — A peaceful pull-off near H-58 with elevated views of Grand Sable Lake framed by forested hills, especially colorful in fall.
• Lake Superior Overlook — This peaceful stop along Alger County Road H-58 features a short trail and wheelchair-accessible platform overlooking Lake Superior. The view is spectacular. A small day-use parking lot and stairway provide easy access for those not using mobility devices to Twelvemile Beach, where Sullivan’s Creek flows into the lake. It’s a quiet spot for a quick swim, shoreline stroll or wildlife and sunset watching. Leashed pets are welcome on the beach in front of and to the east of the campground.
• Log Slide Overlook — Near Grand Marais, this popular overlook sits atop the massive Grand Sable Dunes. Once home to a wooden chute used by 19th-century loggers, the site now offers panoramic vistas of Lake Superior and the distant Au Sable Light Station. A short walk leads past historic equipment to the overlook. You can descend the steep dune, but the climb back up is strenuous and not recommended for everyone.
• Miners Castle — One of the most iconic features in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. A short paved trail leads from the parking area to two scenic overlooks with sweeping views of Lake Superior, Grand Island and the sandstone cliffs. A lower overlook, accessible by stairs and a steeper path, brings you even closer to the unique rock formation carved by centuries of wind and water. Leashed pets are welcome and nearby trails connect to the North Country Scenic Trail.

Hiking Trails

• Beaver Basin Trails — This network of backcountry trails near Little Beaver Lake and the Beaver Basin Overlook offers multiple route options, including access to Trappers Lake, Spray Falls and remote sections of the shoreline. Trails are quieter than others in the park and are often used by multi-day backpackers.
• Chapel Loop — This popular 10-mile loop connects several park highlights, including Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, Chapel Beach and Spray Falls. The moderate-to-challenging trail winds through the forest, along towering cliffs and through quiet beach stretches. Start early to avoid crowds and give yourself time for photos and breaks.
• Miners Castle to Miners Beach — A scenic 1-mile section of the North Country Trail connects the iconic Miners Castle overlook to the sandy shores of Miners Beach. The moderate trail descends through the forest with glimpses of Lake Superior before opening up to the water.
• Mosquito Falls Trail — A trail through dense woods leads to a series of small cascades on the Mosquito River. Often muddy and root-filled, this hike, though not long, can be quite rugged. It’s a great addition if you’re exploring nearby Chapel Basin.
• North Country National Scenic Trail — Spanning 4,800 miles across eight states, this epic trail runs the full length of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It offers a quieter hiking experience through hardwood forests, along cliff edges and past remote beaches, perfect for those seeking solitude and sweeping Lake Superior views.
• Sand Point Marsh Trail — A short, flat boardwalk loop through wetlands near Sand Point Beach, this easy trail is wheelchair accessible and a favorite for birdwatching, wildflowers and peaceful strolls. Great for families or a quiet moment before heading to the beach.

Waterfalls

• Miners Falls — A powerful 50-foot drop reached by a 0.6-mile trail through a maple forest. Two overlooks offer prime viewing and photography.
• Munising Falls — These falls are closed until further notice. An easy-to-reach, 50-foot waterfall located just outside Munising. A paved, accessible trail leads from the visitor center to the base of the falls. Temporarily closed in 2025 due to erosion.
• Chapel Falls — This 60-foot cascade flows into Chapel Creek and is accessed via a 1.2-mile hike through wooded terrain. Many hikers continue to Chapel Rock.
• Spray Falls — A dramatic 70-foot waterfall plunging off the cliffs into Lake Superior. Best seen by boat or along this national lakeshore, remember you are not permitted to collect any of them in the national lakeshore.

Beaches

• Chapel Beach — Take a nearly two-mile hike through forested trails to reach a secluded beach that sits where Chapel River flows into Lake Superior. Towering sandstone cliffs line the shoreline.
• Hurricane River Beach — Found at the mouth of the Hurricane River near the campground, this mixed sand-and-stone beach changes appearance every year and provides a peaceful setting for shoreline walks. When water levels are low, you can walk the beach 1.5 miles to the Au Sable Light Station. Shipwreck remnants occasionally appear when the water levels are lower. 
• Lake Superior Overlook Beach — This small day-use area has a short stairway to the shore and a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform above. Sullivan’s Creek empties into the lake just west of the beach. 
• Miners Beach — A broad, sandy stretch along the park’s western edge, framed by forest and sandstone cliffs. It's popular for kayaking, photography and sunset walks. Elliot Falls can be found at the beach’s eastern end. Wheelchair-accessible platforms and stairs offer access. 
• Sable Falls Beach — Reachable by a forest trail and a staircase, this narrow shoreline offers a blend of sand and rocks beneath the Grand Sable Dunes. 
• Sand Point Beach — Close to downtown Munising, this popular family-friendly beach has shallow, warmer waters and picnic facilities (the only Pictured Rocks beach with tables). You can reserve a beach wheelchair and there is a wheelchair-accessible Mobi mat that extends from the parking lot to the water’s edge during the summer months. Look for pink garnet sand in the beach area at the very end of the road. 
• Twelvemile Beach — Stretching for twelve uninterrupted miles, this quiet and undeveloped shoreline is perfect for long walks, swimming and stargazing. It’s accessible from the Twelvemile Beach Campground or a nearby day-use lot.

Historic and Cultural Sites

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore isn’t just known for its cliffs and waterfalls. It also preserves the stories of those who lived, worked and endured life along this rugged stretch of Lake Superior. As you explore the park, you may come across remnants of early homesteads, logging camps and lifesaving stations. Interpretive signage along several trails helps bring this history to life. Step into the past at these sites:

• Au Sable Light Station & Tour — This 19th-century lighthouse is accessible via a 1.5-mile trail from Hurricane River Campground. In summer and fall, climb the tower during guided tours and see nearby shipwreck remains.
• Coast Guard Boathouse — Located along the shore of Munising Bay, this former U.S. Coast Guard station has been transformed into a small but fascinating museum. Inside the historic boathouse, visitors can view a vintage surf boat, surf cart, Lyle gun and other lifesaving equipment once used to rescue sailors from Lake Superior’s often treacherous waters. Admission is free.
• Schoolcraft Blast Furnace — Near the trail to Munising Falls, visitors can still spot remnants of the 1800s Schoolcraft Blast Furnace. While the furnace itself is gone, fragments of slag and sections of the old corduroy log road remain visible near the creek. 
• Shipwreck Sites — While most are submerged, some historic shipwreck remnants are visible along the lakeshore, particularly near Au Sable Point and Hurricane River, where fragments of hulls and iron pieces occasionally surface due to changing lake levels. These artifacts reflect the region’s rich maritime history and the dangers of shipping on Lake Superior.
  The Glass Bottom Shipwreck Boat Tours are one of the most extraordinary adventures that you’ll ever experience when visiting Pictured Rocks. This two-hour, narrated tour gives you the history and an ethereal perspective of two shipwrecks, the “Bermuda” (1860-1870) and “Herman H. Hettler” (1890-1926). Viewing through a glass well, you will pass only feet above the relics that rest on Superior’s cold, rock bottom.
  Open-water certified scuba divers can also explore the Alger Bottomland Preserve. For guided dives, Shipwreck Tours, Inc. uses two passenger boats to take up to 12 divers to one of two thrilling sites for underwater adventurers.

Delight in Vibrant Fall Color

From mid-September through early October, the forests surrounding Pictured Rocks burst into brilliant shades of red, orange and golden yellow. Scenic overlooks like Miners Castle, Log Slide and Grand Sable Lake offer stunning vantage points, while trails such as the Chapel Loop and North Country Scenic Trail provide miles of uninterrupted fall color and quiet. With fewer crowds, crisp air and clear skies, autumn is one of the best times to visit, but for the rates and amenities you want, book your lodgings in advance.

Tips 

Planning will help you make the most of your time at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Here are a few essential tips to ensure a rewarding experience:

• Book Early — Accommodations, guided tours and campgrounds often fill quickly during peak summer and fall seasons. Make reservations well in advance to secure your ideal itinerary.
• Download Offline Maps — Cell service is limited or unavailable in many parts of the park. Download or print out trail maps, directions and important information before you arrive.
• Start Early — Popular destinations like Miners Castle and the Chapel trailhead can become crowded by mid-morning. Arriving early helps you enjoy quieter trails and better parking access.
• Check Weather & Dress Accordingly — Lake Superior’s weather can shift rapidly. Dress in layers, prepare for cool winds, even in summer, and always check the forecast before heading out.
• Use Bug Protection — Mosquitoes and black flies can be especially active in spring and early summer. Bring insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and pants for comfort.
• Check Trail and Site Accessibility — Certain trails, overlooks, waterfalls or campgrounds may be temporarily closed due to weather, erosion or maintenance. Always verify current conditions on the official National Park Service website before heading out.
• Leave No Trace — Help preserve this special place for future visitors by packing out all trash, staying on marked trails and respecting wildlife and natural features.

Where to Find More Information 

• Pictured Rocks Interpretive Center and Gift Shop — This historic building in downtown Munising is the perfect first stop on your Pictured Rocks adventure. Take a fascinating self-guided tour to learn more about local history and the National Lakeshore. Explore the rich past of the region from a narrated 13-minute video on the fishing industry to logging exhibits and the ancient story behind the Pictured Rocks. Open daily.
• Pictured Rocks Munising Falls Visitor Center — At the park’s western entrance on Sand Point Road, this year-round center offers park maps, park passes and indoor exhibits about the area's geology and wildlife. A short, paved trail behind it leads to Munising Falls.
• Pictured Rocks Grand Sable Visitor Center — At the eastern edge of the park on County Road H-58, two miles west of Grand Marais, this seasonal center provides information on Grand Sable Dunes, nearby trails and fall color reports.
• Munising Visitor Center — In downtown Munising on M-28, this hub helps you plan your visit. Pick up brochures, purchase cruise tickets and park passes or browse the gallery, books and U.P.-inspired gifts.

Camping in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Camping in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a range of rustic options that immerse visitors in the park’s natural beauty. There are over 100 campsites spread across three drive-in campgrounds and 14 designated backcountry campgrounds along the park’s 40+-mile shoreline. All drive-in campsites require a reservation and backcountry camping also requires a permit.

The three drive-in campgrounds, Twelvemile Beach, Hurricane River and Little Beaver Lake, provide a total of 67 sites. Twelvemile Beach Campground (36 sites) is located atop a bluff with stair access to the beach and excellent stargazing. Hurricane River Campground (21 sites) is split into upper and lower loops near the trailhead for Au Sable Light Station. Little Beaver Lake Campground (8 sites) offers a quieter, more secluded experience with access to the Beaver Basin Wilderness.

The remaining sites are spread across 14 backcountry campgrounds, each typically containing 3 to 6 sites and accessible only by foot. These campgrounds are popular among backpackers for their remote settings, proximity to scenic areas like Chapel Beach and Mosquito River and direct access to the North Country Scenic Trail. All sites are very rustic.

Grand Island National Recreational Area has an additional 19 individual campsites (1 to 6 people per site), two group campsites (7 to 25 people per site) and two cabins (4 to 8 people). 

Relax in Comfort at Nearby Lodging

Whether you stay in Munising or Grand Marais, both towns offer convenient access to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and a welcoming place to recharge. Munising, the larger of the two, serves as the park’s western hub with the most lodging, dining and guided tour options, including boat cruises and kayak launches. Grand Marais, on the eastern edge, offers a quieter, slower-paced stay close to Log Slide Overlook, Grand Sable Dunes and scenic shoreline trails. Each makes an excellent base for exploring the national lakeshore, but be sure to book early during peak summer and fall weekends.

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