Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Munising, Alger County

Forty miles of Lake Superior shoreline protected as America's first National Lakeshore. The cliffs are the headline, but the interior waterfalls and the dunes at the east end are just as good.

Best time: June–October
Official info: National Park Service

Hikes and sights

Miners Castle Overlook

Paved and short

The easiest way to see the cliffs: a paved walk to overlooks of the castle-shaped rock. Wheelchair accessible.

Miners Falls

About 1.2 mi round trip

Forest walk to a two-stage waterfall with a viewing deck.

Chapel Rock and Chapel Falls

About 7 mi round trip to Chapel Beach

The classic Pictured Rocks hike: a waterfall, a pine perched on a rock by a single root, and a Superior beach. The full Chapel Loop is roughly 10 miles. Dogs are not allowed on the Chapel Basin trails.

Miners Beach

About 2 mi round trip

A broad sand beach that is good for sunset and swimming if you can handle cold water.

Grand Sable Dunes

Short walks

Huge dunes at the east end of the park, with a view down to Lake Superior.

Good to know

Check the NPS page for current fees and permits before you go; sources disagree and they change.
Backcountry camping needs a permit and reservation.
Boat cruises out of Munising show the cliffs from the water.

Distances are approximate and sources vary. Check the official page above for current trail conditions, fees and closures.