Great Lakes

For many people, lake effect means snow along Michigan’s Great Lakes’ coasts, but in Michigan's Upper Peninsula it is something more. Lake effect is our unquenchable year-round passion for water and we have millions of gallons to share with you. Fresh — unsalted. Our lakes and beaches are stunningly beautiful all four seasons.

The five Great Lakes account for one fifth of the world’s freshwater supply. One of the Upper Peninsula’s bragging rights is that its land mass is touched by three of the greatest freshwater seas in the world — Lakes Superior, Huron and Michigan — with Lake Superior being the world’s largest freshwater lake. From our Great Lakes, you can journey into Michigan’s famous nationally known destinations, too. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising is home to 42 miles of ancient sandstone cliffs while Michigan’s only national park, Isle Royale National Park, boasts miles of hiking and untouched wildlife. 

We proudly claim 1,700 miles of Great Lakes shoreline where you can gather up colorful agates and stones from our cobble beaches. Surf on roaring waves or paddle across flat, transparent waters. Jump from craggy cliffs. Dive for shipwrecks. Make footprints and build castles on expanses of soft sand. Climb towering dunes. Splash and swim for hours. Feel the breeze comb through your hair as you sail or cruise along on a boat. Cast a line and catch several species of fish. Watch the sun paint the sky crimson, lavender and gold at dawn and evening. These great waters will thrill and inspire you every day, and at night, you just may see the Northern Lights, too.

Discover the U.P.