Hike-in Required
Yes
Open Year-round
No
ADA accessible
No
Guided tours
No
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.

The Summit Peak Observation Tower is situated on the highest point (at 1958 feet of elevation) in Upper Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The tower provides sweeping views of the deciduous forest of the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior. On a clear day visitors can see the Apostle Islands to west.

Reaching the Summit Peak Observation Tower requires an out-and-back hike that is just under a mile in length. The trailhead is located at the end of Summit Peak Road which is off South Boundary Road. Parking near the trailhead is very limited considering how popular this hike is. There are a few picnic tables near the trailhead as well as a composting bathroom facility. Leashed dogs are allowed on this hike.

 The trail to the tower is a steady climb on a wide dirt path. The climb is pretty gradual so it is not too strenuous. After about a third of a mile, there is an observation platform with a very nice view. After this the trail is mostly boardwalks and steps leading to the tower.  The tower is 50 feet tall, so it does not take a lot of effort to reach the top. This is an especially popular destination during the fall color season.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

State Park Fee

Open from

April 01 to November 30

Pros

Sweeping views of the Porcupine Mountains.

Cons

Limited parking.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Features

Vault toilet
Family friendly
Picnic tables
Big vistas

Location

Nearby Adventures

Ottawa National Forest near Bergland, Michigan
Black River Harbor Recreation Area, Michigan
Black River Harbor Recreation Area, Ottawa National Forest, Michigan

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