As you cross the Wisconsin border into the far-western edge of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you arrive in Ironwood. This is a tough-to-top base camp for thrilling adventures, freedom from life’s stresses and the peace of total relaxation. Here’s a list of day trip destinations within a three-hour drive that includes historic mines, gorgeous beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, jaw-dropping overlooks and top hiking and biking trails. We added local picks for delicious food and drinks and places to bask in the silence of the wilderness. Have a great day exploring the U.P.!
Places Steeped in Life-altering History
QUINCY MINE (~2 hour drive)
Few places made a bigger impact on the lives and fortunes of the people in the Upper Peninsula and the growth of America than the mines located a few hours from Ironwood. One of the best ways to learn about the Copper Rush is to visit the Quincy Mine in Hancock which operated from 1846 to 1945. Today this major tourist attraction gives underground tours that heighten your awareness of the dangers and glory of mining, the hardships of miners’ lives and the indelible marks they made in America’s history. The tour includes a ride on a cogwheel tram and a visit to the Hoist House, which contains one of the largest steam hoists in the world.
IRON MOUNTAIN IRON MINE (~2.5 hour drive)
Another history maker was this mine in Vulcan that operated for 68 years, delivering 21,625,000 tons of iron ore to the great steel mills of the Midwest! Ride an underground train 2,600 feet through drifts and tunnels to 400 feet below the earth’s surface! See amazing rock formations and lighted caverns, historic mining equipment and hear about the brawn and grit of iron miners. After the tour, enjoy a traditional miner’s pasty lunch and visit the largest rock shop in the Upper Peninsula. It’s a rock hounder’s and geologist’s paradise.
FORT WILKINS HISTORIC STATE PARK (~3 hour drive)
Drive to the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula to Fort Wilkins Historic State Park in Copper Harbor. As soon as you walk into this well-preserved 19th-century military outpost you will be in another time. Established in 1844, the fort kept peace in Michigan’s Copper Country during the copper mining boom. Today, it is a living history museum, featuring restored buildings, costumed interpreters and exhibits detailing soldiers’ daily lives and the region's history.
Majestic Waterfalls
PRESQUE ISLE RIVER FALLS LOOP (~0.75 hour drive)
The Presque Isle River Falls Loop in Wakefield is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. This scenic river trail is part of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park that takes you to a series of mesmerizing waterfalls, including Manido Falls, Nawadaha Falls and Manabezho Falls. Your camera will work overtime taking in the incredible scenery.
BOND FALLS (~1.25 Hour Drive)
Bond Falls in Paulding is one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula. The falls drop about 50 feet over several cascades, creating a picturesque scene that's perfect year-round for photos. Bring a picnic and let the falling water soothe away your stress.
CANYON FALLS (~1.75 hour drive)
Canyon Falls in L'Anse Township is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and accessible hiking trails along the Sturgeon River. Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Michigan,” you will find numerous viewing spots as you follow the river as it cascades through a series of rapids and drops.
Breathtaking Overlooks
LAKE OF THE CLOUDS (~1 hour drive)
Lake of the Clouds in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is renowned for its dazzling beauty. Drive up for a mountainside view of the sparkling lake below, surrounded by trees that put on seasonal shows of deep greens, brilliant reds and golds and glistening wintery white. It's a great spot for hiking, photography and simply enjoying the natural splendor of the Upper Peninsula.
BROCKWAY MOUNTAIN DRIVE (~3 hour drive)
Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor offers some of the best views in the Upper Peninsula, with panoramic vistas of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. As you wind your way to the top, be ready to stop several times to be awed.
COPPER PEAK (~0.5 hour drive)
Copper Peak in Ironwood is our closest must-see view. Originally built as a ski-flying structure, this is the largest artificial ski jump in the world. It’s well worth making it to the top of this 26-story, cantilevered engineering marvel where you can look out over 2,500 square miles and see on a clear day parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Canada.
Adventures on the Water
WHITEWATER RAFTING ON THE MENOMINEE RIVER (~2.5 hour drive)
One of the most thrilling adventures near Ironwood is whitewater rafting on the Menominee River. This river takes your day trip to the extreme with one of the best water adventures in the Midwest. The Piers Gorge section is particularly famous for its churning, tumbling rapids and breathtaking scenery. True North Outpost offers guided rafting trips that are perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters.
LAKE GOGEBIC (~0.75 hour drive)
For a calmer day, take a short drive to Lake Gogebic in Marenisco. It is the largest inland lake in the Upper Peninsula and offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and perch. Or laze away your time swimming, soaking up the sun, kayaking or boating. Wildflowers, birds and wildlife are everywhere as you hike nearby trails in the spring through fall. This lake is a winter wonderland for snow enthusiasts, too.
LAKE SUPERIOR COASTAL TOUR (~2 hours)
Lake Superior Coastal Tour: From Ironwood, take M-28 to Silver City. Follow M-64 N along this amazing coast to the Ontonagon Lighthouse on River Street in Ontonagon. Daily self-guided tours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., mid-May to mid-October (and off-season by appointment). Visit the museum to see collections of mining, logging, farming, marine and memorabilia displayed in room settings and cases. Climb to the lighthouse lantern room for a spectacular view of the lake, harbor and the unique profile of the Porcupine Mountains in the distance.
Continue your coastal drive along M-64 to a mile east of downtown and stop at the Ontonagon Township Park. There enjoy a mile-long stretch of beach perfect for walking, swimming, rock hunting or relaxing with a good book in the sun. If you have never spent time by Lake Superior, you will be awestruck.
COPPER HARBOR (~3 hour drive)
Copper Harbor brings you to the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula and it will captivate you for hours. The harbor is perfect for kayaking, boating and fishing. Or take drives along the rugged coastline — it rivals any views you might see along Highway 1 in California. Notable day trip jaunts include the Copper Harbor Lighthouse and walking in the peaceful Estivant Pines Nature Preserve.
Hiking & Biking Trails
NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL (Various locations ~0.5 hour+ drive)
The North Country Trail runs through the Upper Peninsula and offers excellent hiking opportunities. One popular section is the Porcupine Mountains segment, which features rugged terrain, dense forests and stop-in-your-track views. Based on your day, choose how far you go.
COPPER HARBOR TRAILS (~3 hour drive)
The Copper Harbor Trails rank among the best mountain biking trails in the world. Natural surface singletracks take you to a series of epic ridges, valleys, forests, streams, historic locations, mountaintops and shoreline encounters with Lake Superior. These trails are open for hiking, and, in winter, snowshoeing and skiing. Prepare to be wowed!
Relaxing Beaches
BLACK RIVER HARBOR BEACH (~0.5 hour drive)
The Black River Harbor Beach is at the mouth of the Black River and offers a peaceful spot to relax, hike, picnic and enjoy the water. It has one of the Western U.P.’s few Lake Superior boat ramps. We highly recommend starting your day trip at Bessemer to follow the 15-mile Black River National Scenic Byway and visit the five must-see waterfalls. Trails to the Great Conglomerate Falls, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone and Rainbow Falls are ½ to ¾ mile long. The byway ends at the harbor.
MCLAIN STATE PARK (~2.25 hour drive)
McLain State Park near Hancock is known for its scenic views of Lake Superior, exceptional sunsets and wide range of recreational activities. The park offers two miles of beach for swimming, beachcombing and rock hounding. Spend hours kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, fishing, berry picking and hiking, too. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash.
AGATE BEACH (~2 hour drive)
Agate Beach in Toivola is a hotspot for rock enthusiasts who can spend hours searching for these colorful, semi-precious stones washed ashore by the lake's waves. Besides agate hunting, it is a good family destination for swimming, sunbathing and paddling.
Food & Drinks
PETERSON'S FISH MARKET & FOUR SUNS FISH & CHIPS (~2 hour drive)
After a day of adventure, head to Four Suns Fish & Chips near Hancock. This delicious no-frills restaurant is a local favorite and offers fresh fish and chips, along with other seafood dishes. It's a great place to enjoy a hearty meal and relax after exploring the area attractions. The fish market offers a variety of fresh and smoked fish options, including whitefish, trout, and salmon.
BRICKSIDE BREWERY (~3 hour drive)
Brickside Brewery in Copper Harbor is the northernmost brewery in Michigan and is a notable destination for craft beer enthusiasts visiting the Upper Peninsula. The brewery's offerings range from traditional ales and lagers to unique seasonal brews, catering to varied tastes.
FITZGERALD'S RESTAURANT (~2.5 hour drive)
Fitzgerald's Restaurant is on the shore of Lake Superior in Eagle River. It is a well-regarded establishment known for its focus on smoked meats, fresh fish and regional specialties. The dining area provides a comfortable, rustic ambiance, complemented by large windows that offer stunning lake views. An outdoor deck is available for those who prefer to dine al fresco while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
THE JAMPOT (~2.75 hour drive)
The Jampot near Eagle Harbor is a unique bakery and preserve shop operated by the monks of the Society of St. John. The Jampot is a popular stop for tourists exploring the Keweenaw Peninsula and eager to pick up food for the road. Find traditional preserves made from Michigan thimbleberries, blueberries and cherries and fresh-baked goods such as fruitcakes, muffins and cookies, all crafted with high-quality ingredients. Your tastebuds will thank you.
KEWEENAW BREWING COMPANY (~2 hour drive)
The Keweenaw Brewing Company in Houghton is a great spot to unwind with a craft beer. The brewery offers a variety of pale ales, stouts and lagers. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect place to end your day.
NORTHERN SUN WINERY (~3 hour drive)
For wine enthusiasts, visiting Northern Sun Winery in Bark River is a must. This family-owned winery produces a variety of wines from locally grown grapes. You can tour the vineyard, enjoy a wine tasting and purchase your favorite bottles to take home.
Book Your Stay
Ironwood is a fantastic starting point for day trips in the Western and Central U.P. Whether you're seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the intrigue of historic mine tours, the beauty of waterfalls and scenic overlooks or the tranquility of hiking and biking trails, there's something for everyone within a three-hour drive. Don't forget to savor the local cuisine and enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the area's restaurants, wineries or breweries, too.
There are several choices of places to stay in Ironwood with amenities and rates that will help you rest up for more exploring tomorrow. Book your stay now.
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