Experience the Pristine Beauty of Michigan's Untamed Coastline

A Glimpse into the Upper Peninsula's Natural Splendor

The Midwest holds countless natural wonders, with Michigan's Upper Peninsula, affectionately known as the UP, standing as a testament to untamed beauty. This secluded, forested territory boasts some of the nation's most spectacular natural vistas. Its distinctiveness is amplified by its borders with three Great Lakes, including the magnificent Lake Superior, celebrated for its scenic circular drive.

Exploring the Shores of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

With approximately 1,700 miles of coastline and beaches in the UP, it's no surprise that this region hosts some of Michigan's most esteemed national parks and sites, such as Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This rugged shoreline, overlooking Lake Superior, is famed for its vibrant sandstone cliffs, immaculate beaches, stunning waterfalls, dense woodlands, and extensive networks of hiking and backpacking trails.

Unveiling the Charms of Miners Beach

Within the park's six distinct beaches, Miners Beach, recognized by TripAdvisor as one of the top five in the entire UP, offers an exceptional experience. This gorgeous sandy expanse stretches for almost a mile along Lake Superior, providing an ideal setting for an afternoon or full day of relaxation and exploration. From its shores, visitors can savor sweeping views of Lake Superior's turquoise waters and the area's iconic, richly colored forested cliffs, aptly named the \"pictured rocks.\"

Activities and Sights at Miners Beach

The Upper Peninsula is celebrated for its unspoiled beaches, and Miners Beach exemplifies this reputation. Located about a 20-minute drive east of Munising, the beach is accessible via two small parking areas. From the western parking lot, a boardwalk guides visitors through a jack pine forest to a viewing platform, offering expansive vistas of Lake Superior's shimmering waters and majestic sandstone cliffs. The mile-long sandy shoreline provides ample opportunities for exploration, from leisurely strolls to swimming in Lake Superior's imposing turquoise depths, despite its perpetually cold temperatures.

Landmarks and Waterfalls at Miners Beach

On the far western end of the beach, a warmer pool forms where Miners River merges with Lake Superior, inviting swimmers. From this vantage point, visitors can also behold Miners Castle, a multi-layered rock formation on a forested promontory, representing one of the park's most iconic landmarks. This location is also one of two spots in the park where Bridalveil Falls can be seen, its waters cascading over the cliff and rocks into Lake Superior at an unusual 45-degree angle. Additionally, a smaller waterfall, Elliot Falls, is visible on the far eastern side of the shoreline from Miners Beach.

Trails and Pet Policies

For those preferring a hike to Miners Beach, parking is available at the Miners Castle Trailhead, leading to a steep, mile-long descent to the beach. Alternatively, the 1.2-mile round-trip trail to Miners Falls offers a wooded path to the powerful 50-foot falls, the most robust in the park. It's important to note that while pets are permitted at Miners Beach and on the Miners Falls Trail, they are not allowed on cliff-top trails, including the Miners Castle Trail.

Accessing Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Reaching Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Miners Beach can be an adventure due to the UP's remote nature, with only a few small regional airports. Driving is the most recommended mode of transportation, with Pictured Rocks being just under five hours from Milwaukee, one of the closest major metropolitan areas. The park has two visitor centers: the Munising Falls Visitor Center on the western side and the Grand Sable Visitor Center, about two miles from Grand Marais on the eastern side. Although not designated as a national park, it is managed by the National Park Service, requiring a $25 vehicle fee, waived for those with an annual America the Beautiful national parks pass.

Accommodations and Backcountry Options

Pictured Rocks offers three campgrounds—Little Beaver Lake, Twelvemile Beach, and Hurricane Falls—with a total of 65 campsites that require advance online booking. For those unable to secure a campsite or preferring less rustic lodging, numerous options are available in Munising, the Upper Peninsula's beautiful destination. Pictured Rocks is also a popular spot for backpacking, though backcountry permits can be challenging to obtain.