Packing for a fall trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula requires a mix of cozy and practical essentials to handle the region's famously ever-changing weather — locals often joke it can be different every minute. To help prepare for your adventure, here’s a guide for packing the right mix of clothing, footwear and outdoor gear to be ready for the whims of nature.

 

What Our Fall Weather is Like

The three Great Lakes along the Upper Peninsula’s shores affect the weather and temperatures. Don't expect the same weather on Drummond Island in the far east as you'll encounter in Ironwood to the west, Menominee in the south or Copper Harbor in the north. 

From late September to early October, fall starts with milder temperatures. Daytime highs range from the mid-60s to the low 70s, then by late October dip to the 40s and 50s. By November, plan to trade your fleece for a down jacket. When the leaves are at their peak color in mid-October, the days can range from sunny and crisp to overcast and chilly, with early frosts coating inland areas. 

Check forecasts and hour-by-hour weather predictions using the AccuWeather app or the Weather Channel.

What to Pack

 

1. Clothing for Layering

  • Base Layers: Lightweight and moisture-wicking layers (such as merino wool or synthetic tops) are ideal for keeping warm without bulk.
  • Sweaters & Hoodies: Choose styles that are easy to remove or put on to stay comfortable throughout the warmer day and into the cooler night. 
  • Outerwear: A waterproof, windproof jacket or parka is essential. The Upper Peninsula often experiences windy, rainy weather in the fall.
  • Thermal Leggings or Pants: Great for warmth, especially for outdoor activities like hiking.
  • Hiking Pants & Jeans: Opt for comfortable hiking pants that are water-resistant, along with a pair of jeans for casual outings.
  • Extra Clothing: Bring a change of outerwear, shirts and pants, especially when hiking or biking near waterfalls or paddling on waterways. 

2. Weather-Ready Footwear

  • Waterproof Hiking Boots: Perfect for exploring trails, rocky coasts and forests.
  • Warm Socks: Wool socks are a must-have when the temperatures drop below 50 degrees.
  • Casual Shoes: Comfortable, closed-toed shoes for walking in towns, at historical sites and on paved trails.

3. Traveling Essentials

  • Cell Phone and Charger
  • Drinking Water
  • Non-perishable, Portable Snacks 

4. Outdoor Essentials

  • Daypack: Bring a small, waterproof daypack for hikes or day trips. 
  • Printed Maps and Handheld Compass: Include regional, local and trail maps. (Cell service can be spotty in remote areas of the Upper Peninsula, so offline maps or GPS are invaluable.)
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Keep filled with drinking water. Stay hydrated while you hike or explore.
  • Sunglasses 
  • Binoculars: Fall is the peak season for spotting migrating birds and the elusive moose or bear in the wilderness.
  • First Aid Kit and Matches
  • Flashlight or Portable Lantern and Extra Batteries

5. Vehicle Essentials

  • Blankets
  • Reflective Emergency Triangles or Flares
  • Jumper Cables
  • Tire Gauge
  • Basic Tool Kit
  • Ice Scraper, Snow Brush, Shovel and Windshield Fluid
  • Paper Towels and Rags

6. Cold Weather Essentials

  • Beanie or Warm Hat
  • Warm Gloves or Mittens
  • Scarf
  • Extra-warm Fleece
  • Waterproof Winter Coat
  • Snow Boots

7. Toiletries and Personal Items

8. Photography Gear

  • Camera or Smartphone: Fall foliage in the Upper Peninsula is incredibly photogenic. There is no better place in the U.S. to capture the vibrant landscapes.
  • Tripod: If you want to capture long-exposure shots or use the beautiful golden-hour light. It is also helpful when shooting the Northern Lights or starry night sky.

9. Local Guides or Field Books

  • Wildlife, Bird, Foliage and Rock/Gem Guides: Choose field guides for the U.P. to match your interests and enhance your outdoor experience. Our wilderness will wow you!

Know Before You Arrive

Take a few minutes to read:

8 Things to Know Before You Go to the Upper Peninsula

U.P. Wildlife Guide
 

Wherever you stay, fall beauty is outside your door

While autumn isn’t as busy as summer in the U.P., our national fall color accolades are bringing more and more people. Plan where you want to visit and make reservations early at the lodgings with the amenities and rates you want. Our trees are eager to wow you. 

Book Your Fall Color Getaway

 

Share with Us

We would love to see where you went and what you did on your fall adventure in the U.P. Use our hashtag #uptravel for an opportunity to be featured on our social media, website or in our marketing materials. You can also upload your photos to our content collector below.