One of the best ways to experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is to hike its network of trails. If you only have a few minutes or hours to see a portion of the Lakeshore, one of these day hikes may be for you. Lace up your hiking shoes, grab a shack and a canteen, and head down the trail!

 

 

Sable Falls

Beginning at the Sable Falls parking area, this 0.6 mile round trip leads you along Sable Creek to Lake Superior. The first landing on the stairs provides a view of beautiful Sable Falls. The trail continues past the falls down the canyon at creek level to a rocky beach on Lake Superior. Benches are provided along the way for rest stops. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

White Birch Trail

This self-guiding interpretive trail begins at the east end of the Twelve mile Beach Campground. The 2.0 mile loop is interpreted by a trail guide which explores the natural history of the uplands adjacent to the lake. Once you climb 80 feet to the ridge, you are in a very different environment from that of the campground. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

White Pine Trail

This 0.7 mile loop begins at the Little Beaver Campground. The trail includes a stand of 250-300 year old white pines. Take 30 minutes to an hour to enjoy this walk on a hot summer day when the cool, moist, microclimate of the north woods can be appreciated to its fullest. A self guiding interpretive brochure is available at the trailhead. Pets not permitted on this trail.

 

Beech Forest

A 2.0 mile loop walk, begin either at the Sable Falls parking lot or the Grand Sable Visitor Center. The trail provides a cool stroll through a beech maple forest and along the edge of old farm fields. Remnants of an old cedar shake logging camp lie near the trail. The south end of the trail crosses the creek on H-58. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

Log Slide Overlook

The overlook is adjacent to the Log Slide parking area. The disabled accessible boardwalk leads to an overlook of the Grand Sable Banks which rise some 300 feet above Lake Superior. To the west the Au Sable Light Station is silhouetted against the lake. To the east the Grand Sable Dunes lie in the distance, as does the Grand Marais harbor, some five miles away. Exhibits interpret the historic scene and one of the most exciting views within the Lakeshore. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

Hurricane River to Au Sable Light Station

This level 3.0 mile round trip begins at the Hurricane River picnic area for a walk back in time. Take the Lakeshore trail east through the campground and down the old access road to the Light Station on Au Sable Point. Exposed shipwreck remains punctuate the shoreline. The quiet light station gives a feeling of yesteryear where families lived and worked from 1874 till 1958. Portions of the station are open to visitors as buildings are restored to their 1910 appearance. Wayside exhibits interpret the historic scene. Rest rooms and water are not available at the Light Station. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

Grand Sable Dunes

A 1.0 mile round trip to the dunes begins at the Sable Falls parking area. As you pass an old orchard and cross Sable Creek, the trail leads through jack pines to the windswept dunes. Trailside exhibits discuss dune plants and their role in this special environment. Enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the distant dunes. Your return walk is on the same trail. Pets permitted on 6’ leash.

 

Sevenmile Creek

If you are looking for a half day hike try this 5.0 mile round trip hike beginning at the west Twelvemile Beach Campground loop. The trail begins at the Lakeshore Trailhead at the west end of the campground. Explore the ridge going out and the beach on the way back. In early spring, Sevenmile is a productive trout stream for fishermen. Pets not permitted on this trail.

 

Walking and Hiking Tips

Any walk or day hike, no matter what length, is more fun if you are properly prepared. Always wear sturdy footgear. If you plan to be out an extended time, carry a snack and a canteen of water. Save more than half of your energy for the return walk. Local weather is modified by Lake Superior. Dress for cool conditions and carry rain gear. If you are hiking in unfamiliar terrain, carry a map and compass and know how to use them. Rock within the Lakeshore is soft, crumbly sandstone and is often covered with gravel — stay away from cliff edges. As always, let someone know where you are going. Pets are allowed only on specific trails — check a bulletin board or ask a Park Ranger for details. Bicycles are not permitted on hiking trails or board walks. Backcountry permits are required only If you plan to camp In the backcountry.

 

 

- Day Hike Tips
Day Hiking Tips In Michigan- U.P. A well organized weekend trip could easily provide you with a quality, full day hike that will revitalize your metabolism, satisfy your soul and cleanse your inner spirit.

 

- Day Hikes - Munising, Michigan
Day Hikes information for the Munising, Michigan area and the Hiawatha National Forest.

 

 

 

 

Bruno's Run Hiking Trail
Hiking, Biking, Snowshoe and Cross Country Ski Trail

 

Backcountry Camping
Department of Natural Resources - Recreation & Camping

 

Hiking Hiawatha National Forest
U.S. Forest Service Recreational Activities - Hiking Hiawatha National Forest

 

Recreational Trails in the Hiawatha National Forest
Hiawatha National Forest Tourist Attraction Information Resource

 

Hiawatha National Forest Hiking & Walking
Yahoo! Travel - A complete list of hiking and recreational trails in Michigan's U.P.