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The sun setting over Lake Superior. PC: Instagrammer @ shravanmummadi

The Magic of Pictured Rocks Sunsets in Photos

While nothing compares to a sunset over Lake Superior, watching the rays reflect off magical cliffs and caves in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is truly an unforgettable experience…READ MORE

Indian Head Rock, a formation in the Pictured Rocks.

The Folklore of Pictured Rocks

While millions of people have explored the Munising, Grand Island, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore areas over the last century, Native American tribes have cherished the land for thousands of years.

Before French fur traders and Europeans voyaged to what would become Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the rural region was vastly home to the Ojibwe tribe…READ MORE

The Chapel Rock, one of Pictured Rocks Cruises’ tour boats, is seen along the Pictured Rocks shoreline. PC: mi playground

What People Are Saying About Pictured Rocks Cruises

For over 50 years, Pictured Rocks Cruises has given visitors a tour of the towering sandstone cliffs, formations and magical colors of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – a top Michigan vacation spot – on board.

Departing from Munising, these boat tours are 2 to 2 ½ hours long and travel alongside the most stunning 40 miles of shoreline on the Great Lakes…READ MORE

Miners Falls. PC: Instagrammer @saymermaid

The Top 7 Waterfalls of Pictured Rocks

You don’t have to travel far in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to find stunning waterfalls…the area is home to hundreds of them! With its proximity to the Great Lakes and countless streams and creeks, it’s no wonder the rural area is overflowing with these gorgeous sights.

Many waterfalls can be found within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and are the result of water gushing over sandstone shelfs or cliffs called the Au Train Formation. From thunderous flows into gorges to cascading trickles into Lake Superior…READ MORE

The cliffs of the Pictured Rocks and clear waters of Lake Superior. PC: Instagrammer @errythang_19, website: https://ezmoments.com/

Why You Should Plan a Long Weekend at Pictured Rocks

Deemed the “Great Lakes State” and famed for its physical shape resembling a mitten, Michigan is lush in many ways but is best known for its beauty. North above the Mackinac Bridge rests the stunning waterfalls, sandstone cliffs and sea caves, dunes, and tranquil trails and forests of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Spanning over 40 miles along the crystal-clear shores of Lake Superior between the cities of Munising and Grand Marais, the Pictured Rocks park has so much to offer it makes day trippers wish they planned a longer stay.

With an abundance of sights and ways to see them all, here’s why you need to take a long weekend “Up North”…READ MORE

Miners Castle, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Instagrammer @aswegoplaces

The Perfect Road Trip to Pictured Rocks from Ohio

Bordering the southern shoreline of Lake Superior, Michigan’s rustic Upper Peninsula is the perfect place to unwind and relax. While the entire area is stunning, one of the biggest draws to the peninsula is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – and it’s easy to see why!

Designated the first national lakeshore in the United States, the Pictured Rocks is encompassed by massive sandstone cliffs and formations that are painted with vibrant colors from lake minerals…READ MORE

Grand Portal Point in the Pictured Rocks park. PC: Instagrammer @shannon__rose_

How to Experience the Beauty of Pictured Rocks by Trail

Along the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula you’ll find the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Managed by the National Park Service, the lakeshore offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails that lead to gorgeous waterfalls, beaches, towering cliffs, and dunes…READ MORE

A tour boat cruises by the Pictured Rocks cliffs. PC: the Alger County Historical Society.

Touring the Pictured Rocks: Then to Now

Although the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore wasn’t established until 1966, people have cherished the area for hundreds of years.

What are the Pictured Rocks?
Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula between Munising and Grand Marais, massive sandstone cliffs, caves and unique formations along Lake Superior shoreline, sand dunes, miles of incredible hiking trails, beaches, waterfalls, inland lakes, and…READ MORE

Grant Portal Point, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Instagram user @macaronita

Planning Your Pictured Rocks Adventure

Stunning sandstone formations and dunes. Spectacular waterfalls. Scenic overlooks and beaches. Unforgettable boat cruises and kayak trips. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has it all.

Located in the rural Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the Pictured Rocks is a perfect trip for those looking for a relaxing vacation in the great outdoors…READ MORE

Fall colors in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore appear in September and usually peak by mid-October. PC: National Park Service

The Best Ways to Experience the Fall Season around Pictured Rocks

Home to hundreds of serene waterfalls, immaculate beaches, and deep forests, Michigan’s rural Upper Peninsula is the perfect place for nature lovers searching for a unique adventure.

Nestled along the turquoise waters of Lake Superior near…READ MORE

Grand Portal Point in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Tim Trombley

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to See Pictured Rocks

USA Today readers recently chose Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as the best destination to view fall foliage and we’re not surprised. Whether you’re cruising or kayaking near towering cliffs, hiking among colorful trees, or enjoying a scenic drive throughout the park, you’re sure to make memories that’ll last a lifetime…READ MORE

Photo: Douglas Fulton, Miners Castle at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, n.d. [1960s], Pictured Rocks Folder, Box 9, Douglas Fulton Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan

The History of Pictured Rocks in Photos

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was established on October 15, 1966 as the first designated national lakeshore in the United States. Prior to that, the remote area in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula had been cherished for hundreds of years by Native American tribes, explorers, and early fur traders…READ MORE

Lovers Leap, one of many landmarks in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Photo Credit: Craig Blacklock

Everything You Need to Know about Pictured Rocks Cruises

Nestled along Lake Superior shoreline in Michigan’s remote Upper Peninsula you’ll discover the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Managed by the National Park Service, the Pictured Rocks park features high sandstone cliffs with vibrant mineral stain along the rockface, stunning waterfalls, sea caves, dunes, and beaches…READ MORE

A Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore waterfall. Photo courtesy of Craig Blacklock.

The Best Waterfalls of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Although there are hundreds of spectacular waterfalls in Michigan, did you know the state’s scenic Upper Peninsula is home to all but one of them? Ranging in size from under 5 to 50 feet vertical drops, the waterfalls in the U.P. are divine sites often nestled among nature and trees. While some of the falls require hiking or…READ MORE

Lover’s Leap. Photo courtesy of Tim Trombley.

The Road Less Traveled: Minneapolis to Pictured Rocks

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or even an extended vacation that isn’t too far away, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula should be on your radar. Just an inviting 7 hour drive separates Minneapolis from this national treasure. But what’s the hurry? Make sure to take a little extra time to…READ MORE

Chapel Rock. Photo courtesy of Tim Trombley.

Why Pictured Rocks is Closer to Milwaukee Than You Think

After a long week at the office, the urge to get away from the everyday routine can be quite overwhelming. Not everyone has the time or money to commit to a long vacation, but fortunately the Milwaukee area is only a short distance away from one of the world’s most breathtaking gems. If you’re yearning for…READ MORE

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Photo courtesy of Tim Trombley.

How to Get to Pictured Rocks from Chicago, IL

Although metropolitan living certainly has its delights, it’s essential to unwind and soak in all nature has to offer every so often. A trip to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula not only offers a peaceful adventure but the short drive makes it a convenient journey as well. Don’t worry about…READ MORE

The National Lakeshore in Summer. Photo courtesy of Tim Trombley.

Pictured Rocks: A Trip for the Entire Family

Dazzling waterfalls. Scenic overlooks and beaches. Unforgettable boat cruises and kayak trips. Stunning sandstone formations and dunes. When planning a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll discover there’s plenty of exciting things to do in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Whether you have young children or…READ MORE

10 Breathtaking Photos of Pictured Rocks

Just north of the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is where you’ll find breathtaking sandstone cliffs and formations, white sandy beaches, and dunes – sights unlike any you’ve seen before. Stretching for 42-miles along the prestigious Lake Superior shoreline, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a unique…READ MORE

Photo Credit: Tim Trombley

Top 4 Reasons to Visit Pictured Rocks in 2020

Whether you’re looking to kayak, take a boat cruise, and enjoy miles of gorgeous hiking and biking trails in the summertime, or snowmobile, ski, explore frozen waterfalls and ice caves in the winter, or, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a year-round destination that provides something…READ MORE