Why 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.

Pictured Rocks Cruises, a long-time authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service, has been providing tours to the best parts of the Pictured Rocks for over five decades. Operating between mid-May and mid-October near the Munising City Dock, boat tours are offered daily.

While a boat tour with Pictured Rocks Cruises is enjoyed by all, it’s an especially popular trip for grandparents and their grandchildren, and here’s why:

Families love viewing the brilliantly colored cliffs, sea caves, and pristine beaches aboard a Pictured Rocks Cruises’ Sunset Cruise. Lovers Leap, Indian Head, Miners Castle, and Chapel Rock are just a few of the natural landmarks seen on this tour.

The Sunset Cruise departs late in the day, allowing passengers to enjoy the rays of the setting sun on the Pictured Rocks cliffs, a beautiful Lake Superior twilight, and a memorable evening. This is a great tour for taking photos.

Why You Should Plan a Long Weekend at Pictured Rocks

Is it “Painted Rocks” or “Pictured Rocks?”

While millions of people have explored the Munising, Grand Island, and the Pictured Rocks areas over the last century, Native American tribes have cherished the land for thousands of years. You and your family will hear all about it on a boat tour!

Touring the Pictured Rocks: Now to Then

A Pictured Rocks Cruise is a fantastic adventure for the whole family and the high-speed catamaran used for Spray Falls cruises offer the easiest indoor accommodations for wheelchairs.

All boats have enclosed, heated cabins, restrooms, stabilizers and sturdy seats for your comfort and safety. Boats also have both upper and lower decks with padded bench seating.

The upper deck is uncovered, while the lower deck is enclosed with large windows on both sides. Be sure to arrive early if you have a preference as seating is first come, first served.

Why You Need to Make the Trek to Pictured Rocks