Michigan has 5 National Parks:
- Isle Royale National Park
- Keweenaw National Historical Park
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- River Raisin National Battlefield Park
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
In this article I will write about these National Parks. I also add Michigan National Parks map at the end of the article.
List of National Parks in Michigan
1. Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park is a unique and remote wilderness area located in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, Michigan. Established in 1940, this archipelago consists of Isle Royale, the largest island, and over 450 smaller surrounding islands. Known for its rugged beauty, diverse ecosystem, and isolation, Isle Royale offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience pristine nature and solitude.
Information:
- Address: Michigan, United States
- Established: April 3, 1940
- Area: 2,314 km²
- Official website: https://www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm
- Phone: +1 906-482-0984
Things to do in Isle Royale National Park
Outdoor Adventures:
- Backpacking: Isle Royale is a backpacker’s paradise, with over 165 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging. Plan a multi-day trek to experience the island’s diverse ecosystems. (Permits required)
- Hiking: Explore the island’s interior on day hikes, ranging from short walks to longer treks. Popular trails include the Stoll Trail, Scoville Point Trail, and Mount Ojibway Trail.
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Paddle the pristine waters of Lake Superior and explore the island’s rugged coastline and hidden coves. Rent kayaks or canoes on the island or bring your own. (Permits required for overnight trips)
- Fishing: Cast a line for lake trout, northern pike, walleye, and other species in the park’s lakes and streams. A Michigan or Minnesota fishing license is required.
- Wildlife Viewing: Isle Royale is known for its unique moose and wolf populations. Look for these animals, as well as foxes, beavers, loons, and other wildlife.
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Discover the underwater world of shipwrecks in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior. Several shipwrecks are accessible to divers of various skill levels. (Permits required)
- Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Isle Royale offers incredible opportunities for stargazing. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the celestial show.
Historical & Cultural Experiences:
- Visit the Rock Harbor Lighthouse: Explore this historic lighthouse, built in 1855, and learn about its role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters of Lake Superior.
- Explore the Edisle Island Ruins: Discover the remnants of a former fishing village on Edisle Island, offering a glimpse into the island’s past.
- Learn about the Ojibwe Heritage: Visit the Ojibwe Campground and learn about the history and culture of the Anishinaabe people, the original inhabitants of Isle Royale.
Isle Royale National Park weather
- Spring (May-June): Temperatures is cool to mild, ranging from 40s°F (4-9°C) to 60s°F (15-21°C) during the day. Nights can still be cold, dipping below freezing.
- Summer (July-August): Pleasant days in the 70s°F (21-26°C) with cooler nights in the 50s°F (10-15°C).
- Fall (September-October): Gradually cooling down, from 60s°F (15-21°C) in September to 40s°F (4-9°C) in October. Nights are chilly.
- Winter (November-April): Cold, with average highs in the 20s°F (-6 to -2°C) and lows in the teens or single digits °F (-17 to -12°C).
2. Keweenaw National Historical Park
Information:
- Address: 25970 Red Jacket Rd, Calumet, MI 49913, United States
- Established: October 27, 1992
- Official website: https://www.nps.gov/kewe/index.htm
- Phone: +1 906-337-3168
Things to do in Keweenaw National Historical Park
- Quincy Mine Hoist: Marvel at the massive Quincy Mine Hoist, a National Historic Landmark. Take a tour to descend into the mine depths and learn about the technology used to extract copper.
- Delaware Copper Mine: Descend into the depths of the Delaware Copper Mine on a guided tour. Experience the authentic underground workings and hear stories of the miners’ lives.
- Fort Wilkins State Park: Explore the well-preserved Fort Wilkins, a mid-19th century military outpost built during the copper boom. Visit the museum, restored buildings, and costumed interpreters.
- Keweenaw County Historical Society Museum: Discover fascinating exhibits on copper mining, local history, maritime heritage, and the lives of the people who shaped the Keweenaw Peninsula.
- Hiking & Scenic Drives: Hike or drive along the scenic Brockway Mountain Drive, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior, the surrounding forests, and historic mine sites.
- Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or boating in the pristine waters of Lake Superior and the Keweenaw Waterway.
- Explore the Beaches: Relax on the shores of Lake Superior at Calumet Waterworks Park, Hunter’s Point Park, or McLain State Park.
- Fall Colors: Witness the vibrant fall foliage in late September and early October. The Keweenaw Peninsula is known for its stunning displays of color.
Keweenaw National Historical Park weather
- Spring (May-June): Cool, transitioning from the 30s-40s°F (0-9°C) in May to the 50s-60s°F (10-21°C) in June. Nighttime temperatures remain cool.
- Summer (July-August): Temperatures is pleasant, generally in the 60s-70s°F (15-26°C), with cooler nights. The lake moderates extreme heat.
- Fall (September-October): Temperatures is rapidly cooling, going from the 60s°F (15-21°C) in September down to the 40s°F (4-9°C) in October. Nights become colder.
- Winter (November-April): Temperatures is cold, with average highs in the 20s°F (-6 to -2°C) and lows often dipping below freezing.
3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, established in 1966, is a stunning stretch of shoreline along Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Known for its vibrant, multicolored sandstone cliffs, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, this national lakeshore offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Activities and Attractions
- Hiking: Over 100 miles of trails offer opportunities for day hikes and backpacking trips.
- Kayaking and Boating: Paddling along the shoreline provides spectacular views of the cliffs from the water.
- Boat Tours: Guided tours offer a comfortable way to view the colorful cliffs and learn about the area’s history and geology.
- Beaches: Several pristine beaches, including Twelvemile Beach and Sand Point Beach, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Winter Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing are popular during the colder months.
- Camping: The park offers both developed campgrounds and backcountry camping sites.
- Fishing: Anglers can fish in Lake Superior or the park’s inland lakes and streams.
- Rock Climbing: Limited climbing opportunities are available with proper permits.
4. River Raisin National Battlefield Park
River Raisin National Battlefield Park, established in 2010, is one of the newer additions to the National Park System. Located in Monroe, Michigan, this park commemorates and preserves the site of the Battle of Frenchtown, a significant engagement during the War of 1812. The battle and its aftermath played a crucial role in shaping the course of the war and American history.
The park not only commemorates the battle but also serves as a place of reflection on the complex relationships between European settlers, Native Americans, and the young United States. It provides insights into:
- The role of Native American tribes in the War of 1812
- The impact of the war on the settlement of the Northwest Territory
- The long-term consequences of the conflict for Native American communities
5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, established in 1970, is a stunning natural area located along the northwest coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Known for its massive sand dunes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, this national lakeshore offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and rich cultural history.
Activities and Attractions
- Dune Climbing: The Dune Climb is a popular, if challenging, activity offering panoramic views of Glen Lake and Lake Michigan.
- Scenic Drive: The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive provides stunning vistas and interpretive stops.
- Beaches: Miles of sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Hiking: Over 100 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Opportunities on both Lake Michigan and inland lakes.
- Biking: The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers 22 miles of paved path through the park.
- Winter Activities: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding are popular in winter months.
- Island Exploration: Ferry services to North and South Manitou Islands for day trips or backcountry camping.
- Historical Sites: The park preserves several historic farms, maritime structures, and a former Coast Guard station.
Michigan National Parks map on Google map
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