Things to Do Near Marquette in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

This summer we’re deploying our first EO Canopy units in Marquette County in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. If you’re traveling to the area for the first time, make sure to check out the surrounding towns and attractions. The U.P. is packed with spectacular views of Lake Superior, endless miles of hiking and biking trails, lakes for kayaking and fishing, historical sites, waterfalls, lighthouses, culinary experiences, and so much more. 

Here are some places you don’t want to miss during your U.P. adventure. 

Scenic Spots

Presque Isle Park

Peter White Dr, Marquette, MI 49855

Located on the outskirts of Marquette, this 323-acre public park offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and its rugged shoreline. The park features hiking and biking trails that wind through towering forests, scenic overlooks, and rocky cliffs. One of the highlights is Black Rocks, a popular spot for cliff jumping and enjoying the sunset over Lake Superior. 

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore 

1505 Sand Point Road, Munising, MI 49862

Pictured Rocks is located along Lake Superior, less than an hour from Marquette. With its dramatic cliffs, colorful sandstone formations, beaches, waterfalls, and 100 miles of trails, it’s a can’t-miss destination in the U.P.

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S., and it requires some advance planning to get to, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Located in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, the island park—which features scenic views, pristine lakes, abundant wildlife, and 165 miles of hiking trails—is only accessible by boat or seaplane. From Marquette, the easiest way to access the park is by ferry from Houghton or Copper Harbor, or plane from Houghton. 

Copper Peak

N13870 Copper Peak Rd, Ironwood, MI 49938

Copper peak is the world’s largest artificial ski jump. Visitors can ride a chair lift to an 800-foot hilltop and an 18-story elevator to the main observation deck. If you’re brave enough, you can then ascend an additional eight stories to the top starting gate. On a clear day, enjoy views across 2,500 square miles, three states, and Canada.

Waterfalls

Easy: Wright Street Falls

Co Rd 492/Wright St, Marquette, 49855

These falls are located just 10 minutes from downtown Marquette and are easily accessible via a short walk from the nearby parking area. The falls cascade down a series of rocky ledges, and they’re even better in the spring melt or after heavy rain. 

Moderate: Morgan Falls

Mt. Marquette Rd, Marquette, MI

These falls are reached via a 2.8-mile trail just outside of Marquette. The hike is leisurely and dog-friendly with a beautiful payoff: across a wooden footbridge, you’ll spot the 20-foot waterfall cascading into a big pool at the bottom. 

Difficult: Pinnacle Falls

Co Rd AAC, Champion Township, MI

Pinnacle Falls are off a lesser-known trail and can be combined with visiting Yellow Dog Falls, located 20 miles outside of Marquette. This trail is a bit more difficult than some others in the area, and four-wheel drive is recommended for access. 

Museums & History 

Lower Harbor Ore Dock

City Multi Use Path, Marquette, MI 49855

The Lower Harbor Ore Dock was constructed in the late 19th century and facilitated the transportation of iron ore from the mines of Michigan's Upper Peninsula to steel mills across the Great Lakes region. At its peak, Marquette was one of the largest shipping ports for iron ore in the United States, and the ore dock played a crucial role in this trade. Lower Harbor Ore Dock is no longer in use for its original purpose, but it’s still an iconic landmark well worth a visit. 

Marquette Maritime Museum

300 Lake Shore Blvd, Marquette, MI 49855

The Marquette Maritime Museum is located in the old City Waterworks building. The purpose of this museum is to protect and preserve the maritime history of Marquette, Lake Superior, and all the Great Lakes. Along with museum tours, tours of the lighthouse are available as well. 

U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame

610 Palms Ave, Ishpeming, MI 49849

The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame is located in Ishpeming, the birthplace of organized skiing in the United States. The Hall's Honor Roll of over 430 honored members reflects the richness and diversity of American snowsports from the early pioneer ski jumpers and organizers to today's stars, including Glen Plake, Tommy Moe, Picabo Street, Jonny Moseley, Bode Miller, and more.

Hiking Trails

Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain is a 1.4-mile loop that leads to a lookout with beautiful views of Marquette and Lake Superior. This hike is moderately challenging, consisting of some minor obstacles and lots of stairs. 

Hogback Mountain

Hogback Mountain is a 3.1-mile hiking loop. It’s considered to be one of the more difficult hikes in Marquette, but the views at the top are well worth it. There is some rough and steep terrain, so come prepared and wear good hiking shoes. Additionally, while the trail is marked, the trail markers can be difficult to spot. If you are up for a challenge, this hike is very rewarding. 

Wetmore Landing Shoreline Hike

This is a fairly moderate 3.6-mile out-and-back hike with beautiful views of Lake Superior all along the trail. This trail is easy access and you can hike as much or as little of it as you please. Several small beaches are accessible along the trail as well.

North Country Trail

Stretching over 4,800 miles across eight states, this historic trail is the longest of America’s National Scenic Trails. With around 120 miles running through Marquette County, the NCT interconnects with other trail networks providing easy access for hikers. 

Biking Trails

NTN North Trails

The North Trails consist of easy-to-intermediate mountain biking trails. The trails are well marked with maps at most intersections. These trails are easily accessible at any of the three NTN trailheads: BLP (off of Wright Street), Forestville, or Tourist Park (Co. Rd. 550). The North Trails are very scenic and open for both summer and winter biking. Hiking, running, and snowshoeing is also available along these trails. 

NTN South Trails

The NTN South Trails are part of the same trail network as the North Trails. They are similar to the North Trails but are a bit more challenging and technical. The South Trails are easy to access with entrances off of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail or at the main South Trailhead along County Road 553. 

Marquette Mountain Downhill Bike Park

These trails are located on the slopes of Marquette Mountain Resort just down the road from the NTN South Trailhead on County Road 553. They are open for hiking and biking access during the week with chair lift access on Saturdays and Sundays. Bike rentals are available and passes can be purchased through the website. 

Iron Ore Heritage Trail

The Iron Ore Heritage Trail is a 47-mile, year-round interpretive trail. As a multi-use trail, it accommodates various users, including walkers, bikers, ORVs, and cross-country skiers, though access varies by section. The trail follows former railroads and highlights the region’s iron ore mining heritage. With easy access through its nine trailheads and connections to other Marquette County trail systems, it is among the most frequently used trails in the county.

R.A.M.B.A. Trail System

With more than 70 miles of hand-built singletrack, the Range Area Mountain Bike Association has maintained these nationally recognized MTB trails for 30 years. The five trailheads situated between Negaunee and Ishpeming, along with various links to the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, provide convenient access to this network of singletrack.

Water Activities

Kayak Tours

On Saturdays and Sundays, Marquette Mountain Resort offers kayak tours of the Lower Harbor and Presque Isle Park. Led by experienced guides, beginner and advanced paddlers are welcome to enjoy the beauty of Marquette from the waters of Lake Superior. Requests can be made for weekday tours, and advance reservations for weekend tours are strongly encouraged. 

Fishing Locations

Marquette is well known for its diverse fishing experiences. Whether it be on inland lakes, flowing rivers, or Lake Superior itself, anglers are always in for a great adventure. The Dead River is a popular location with access at the bridge on County Rd 550 near Powder Mill Disc Golf Course. Anglers fish next to the bridge, along the river next to the disc golf course, as well as at the river’s mouth on Lake Shore Blvd near Clark Lambros Beach. 

Carp River is another popular spot with access at the bridge on County Rd 553 near Marquette Mountain Resort. Activity is also seen at the mouth of the river on U.S. 41, just south of Marquette, with additional access along Cliff Power Rd. 

Those fishing off of boats, kayaks, or paddleboards will enjoy Harlow Lake just north of Marquette, Teal Lake in Negaunee, and Greenwood Reservoir southwest of Ishpeming.

Get your fishing license here.

Food and Drink 

Restaurants

Jackson’s Pit Gourmet Grill and Bar 
305 Iron St, Negaunee, MI 49866

IronTown Pasties  
801 N. Teal Lake Ave, Negaunee, MI 49866

Breweries

Upper Peninsula Brewing Company 
342 Rail St, Negaunee, MI 49866

Jasper Ridge Brewery
1075 Country Ln, Ishpeming, MI 49849

Ore Dock Brewing Co.
114 W Spring St, Marquette, MI 49855

Blackrocks Brewery 
424 N 3rd St, Marquette, MI 49855