Our Stories - Pictured Rocks Cruises : Pictured Rocks Cruises

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