Why You Need to Make the Trek to Pictured Rocks

Streaks of mineral-stain color the cliffs of the Pictured RocksStreaks of mineral-stain color the cliffs of the Pictured Rocks. PC: Tim Trombley

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 visitors wish they had come sooner. Within driving distance from Indianapolis, here’s why you should plan your trip today:

Cruising the Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks CruisesPictured Rocks Cruises. PC: Munising Visitors Bureau

Operating out of Munising, Pictured Rocks Cruises has taken passengers to see the cliffs and sandstone formations for over 50 years. The Cruises offers three narrated tours for guests: the Classic Cruise, the Spray Falls Cruise, and the Sunset Cruise. This is a must do when visiting the area!

Everything You Need to Know About Pictured Rocks Cruises

Discover 14 Magical Waterfalls

Mosquito FallsMosquito Falls. PC: Instagrammer @csterken

With its proximity to the Great Lakes and countless streams and creeks, it’s no wonder the U.P. is overflowing with gorgeous waterfalls…and Munising is home to 14 of them!

Top 7 Waterfalls of Pictured Rocks

Paddle Through Sea Caves

Kayakers near Chapel RockKayakers near Chapel Rock. PC: Pictured Rocks Kayaking

Paddle through sea caves and see a sandstone castle with Pictured Rocks Kayaking, the only outfitter in Munising that launches you into the water by boat!

Now offering a 3-hour Miners Castle tour, passengers can explore the caves of the most popular sandstone formation in the park! Otherwise, their 5-hour tour features Lovers Leap, Grand Portal Point, Chapel Rock and Cove, and so much more.

See What People are Saying About
Pictured Rocks Kayaking

Explore Amazing Trails

Stairs to see Munising Falls, a popular short walk in the Pictured RocksStairs to see Munising Falls, a popular short walk in the Pictured Rocks. PC: Instagrammer @maymiejameson

The Pictured Rocks offers some of the best hiking trails in the world! From short 10-minute walks to day-long excursions, you have plenty of options to choose from.

How to Experience the Beauty of
Pictured Rocks by Trail

Discover Gorgeous Fall Colors

East Channel LighthouseEast Channel Lighthouse. PC: Munising Visitors Bureau

USA Today readers recently chose the Upper Peninsula as the best destination to view fall foliage and we’re not surprised. Walk along trails near colorful trees, take a scenic drive throughout the park, or kayak or cruise the Pictured Rocks!

The Best Way to Experience
Pictured Rocks in the Fall

Cherish a Family-Friendly Adventure

Kids on a gnome hunt at Horseshoe Falls in MunisingKids on a gnome hunt at Horseshoe Falls in Munising. PC: Munising Visitors Bureau

With gorgeous beaches to relax on, leisurely boat rides to enjoy, and numerous waterfalls nearby, everyone – no matter what age – is sure to enjoy themselves at Pictured Rocks.

Why You Should Plan a Long Weekend at Pictured Rocks

Come on UP

Pictured Rocks Cruises is located at 100 City Park Drive, Munising.Pictured Rocks Cruises is located at 100 City Park Drive, Munising.

From Tahquamenon Falls to Kitchitikipi, turn a day trip to Pictured Rocks into an adventure of a lifetime and check these 10 Adventures Off Your UP Bucket List.

For ideas on what to check out on your way to the U.P., click here.