Chapel Rock, as seen from the water. Photo credit: Tim Trombley.Unveiling Chapel Rock’s Secrets: Legends, Geology, and Lone Pine
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a gem along Lake Superior’s southern shore, boasts towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting sea caves. Located near Munising, in Michigan’s U.P., it was the first of the United States’ four national lakeshores. Among its many natural wonders, Chapel Rock stands as an iconic favorite and is a must-see highlight for visitors cruising the gorgeous waters…READ MORE
Unveiling the Secrets of Michigan’s Sandstone Masterpiece
The colorful sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore tower 50 to 200 feet above Lake Superior. These sandstone cliffs stretch for about 15 miles along Lake Superior from Sand Point on the west to just after Spray Falls on the east. The most colorful portion of the cliffs begin east of Miners Beach…READ MORE
Graveyard of the Great Lakes PC: Deb Nystrom, Ann Arbor, MichiganLake Superior, The Great Lake of Maritime Mysteries
Shipwrecks to ghost ships, Lake Superior tells a story of its own. There are an estimated 550 wrecks in Lake Superior, many of which are still undiscovered. According to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, at least 200 lie along Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast, a treacherous 80-Mile stretch of shoreline between Munising and Whitefish Point which has no safe harbor. It is known as the graveyard of the Great Lakes. These Shipwrecks provide a reminder of the lake’s wrath and the lives perished…READ MORE
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Unsplashed user @charlie-wollborgWhy People are Taking Their Grandchildren to Pictured Rocks
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore lies between the cities of Munising and Grand Marais, with the landscape comprised of massive sandstone cliffs, peculiar formations, and magnificent sea caves along the shoreline of Lake Superior, in addition to sand dunes, beaches, miles of tremendous hiking trails, waterfalls, inland bodies of water, and untamed forests.
The rock face of the Pictured Rocks’ cliffs is adorned with vibrant colors ranging from white, red, blue, to green, thanks to minerals from the big lake which infiltrates the cracks and crevices of the sandstone when water seeps in…READ MORE
A dog at Miners Beach. PC: National Park ServicePet-Friendly Pictured Rocks: All You Need to Know
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts stunning Lake Superior beaches and a beautiful trail system in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, making it an ideal location to explore with your furry friends.
While the Pictured Rocks has several pet-friendly areas, there are a few rustic trails that are not suitable for dogs…that’s why it’s best to know before you go!
Here’s where you can take your four-legged companions in the…READ MORE
Munising City Dock and Pictured Rocks Cruises office. PC: Munising Visitors BureauThe Best Things to Do in the Munising and Pictured Rocks Area
Home of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Hiawatha National Forest, Grand Island National Recreation Area, and Alger Underwater Preserve, Munising is a gorgeous little city located on the southern shoreline of Lake Superior that’s full of activities year-round.
Nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Munising offers incredible boat and kayak tours of the Pictured Rocks, over 14 stunning waterfalls, hundreds of miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and unique coffee shops, breweries and restaurants…READ MORE
Some of the cliffs of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Tim TrombleyThe Top 8 Highlights of a Pictured Rocks Cruises Tour
Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore features sandstone cliffs, sea caves and formations that soar 50 to 200 feet above the immaculate Lake Superior shoreline, miles of white sandy beaches and dunes, an amazing trail system, and magical waterfalls…READ MORE
Lovers Leap in the Pictured Rocks. PC: Craig BlacklockIs it Pictured Rocks or Painted Rocks?
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts an incredible stretch of 42 miles along the glistening Lake Superior, between Munising and Grand Marais in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This natural wonderland is adorned with a plethora of attractions, including waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, sea caves, dunes, as well as…READ MORE
The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore spans for 42-miles along Lake Superior shoreline. PC: Craig BlacklockYour Guide to Camping in Michigan’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Spanning 42-miles along Lake Superior between the cities of Munising and Grand Marais, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore provides endless possibilities for solitude, inspiration, and spiritual rejuvenation.
Known for its towering cliffs and caverns, waterfalls, and phenomenal trail system, the national lakeshore is a perfect place to unwind. While there are…READ MORE
Miners Castle, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Craig BlacklockRoad Tripping from Pittsburg to Pictured Rocks
While the entirety of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is stunning, one of the biggest draws to the area is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Designated the first national lakeshore in the United States, the Pictured Rocks are encompassed by massive sandstone cliffs and formations that are painted with vibrant colors from minerals found in Lake Superior. The park also has…READ MORE
Grand Portal Point, an archway in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Munising Visitors Bureau.St. Louis to Pictured Rocks: The Ultimate Trip
There’s no other adventure like an excursion to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Sandstone cliffs towering 50 to 200 feet along Lake Superior’s pristine shoreline, stretches of white sandy beaches, dunes, magical waterfalls and breathtaking formations and mineral stained rock face make up this park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, providing some of the most incredible…READ MORE
Streaks of mineral-stain color the cliffs of the Pictured Rocks. PC: Tim TrombleyWhy You Need to Make the Trek to Pictured Rocks
North above the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula you’ll find stunning waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, sea caves, dunes, tranquil hiking 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 has so much to offer…READ MORE
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. PC: Instagrammer @somedayisnow_rtwPictured Rocks: The Gem of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Sandstone cliffs towering 50 to 200 feet along Lake Superior’s pristine shoreline, stretches of white sandy beaches, dunes, and breathtaking formations and mineral stained rock face – the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula provides some of the most incredible sights in the world…READ MORE
The sun setting over Lake Superior. PC: Instagrammer @ shravanmummadiThe 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 playgroundWhat 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 @saymermaidThe 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 @aswegoplacesThe 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 @macaronitaPlanning 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 ServiceThe 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 TrombleyWhy 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](https://picturedrocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/History-of-Pictured-Rocks-in-Photos.jpg "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")
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 MichiganThe 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 BlacklockEverything 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 Rocks10 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 TrombleyTop 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