Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,200.00 ft (365.76 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
25.00 mi (40.23 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in Michigan's Northern Peninsula along the shores of Lake Superior outside the small town of Munising. While the park offers nearly 100 miles of trails, arguably the most scenic hug the towering limestone cliffs providing endless views on clear days. Highlights of the lakeshore include Miner's Castle, Mosquito Beach, Grand Portal Point, Chapel Rock, Spray Falls, and Beaver Creek Beach. To maximize the views per mile, park at Miner's Castle and enjoy the sunrise, then drive to the trailhead parking at Miner's Beach. Hike northeast along the coast. Great camping options include the 9.4-mile hike to Chapel Rock campground or the 15 miles to Beaver Creek campground. The relatively flat terrain makes for quick hiking, but the views will stop you in your tracks. For the sea going, rent or bring your sea kayak and paddle to these same campsites. Early spring, late summer, and fall make for the most comfortable hiking conditions as mosquitos and black flies can be a nuisance. Don't forget to make a side trip to the historic Au Sable Lighthouse before calling this great two-day adventure complete.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Sometimes

Pros

Amazing Views, Old Growth Forests

Cons

Summer Bugs

Trailhead Elevation

230.00 ft (70.10 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Lighthouse
Waterfalls
Big vistas
Old-growth forest
Wildflowers
Fishing
Geologically significant

Location

Nearby Adventures

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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