Fall Colors in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula – A Complete Guide
As the vibrant hues of autumn sweep across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP), the region transforms into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. If you’re a fall enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Michigan’s UP is a must-visit destination for leaf peeping. With charming small towns, stunning hikes, scenic lookouts, cozy cafes, and chairlift rides, this guide will take you through the best spots to soak in fall colors in cities like Marquette, Houghton, Ironwood, Munising, and Ontonagon.
Marquette: A Vibrant Fall Destination
Marquette, nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, is the largest city in the UP and offers a spectacular setting for enjoying fall foliage. Here’s how to make the most of your autumn visit.
Best Hikes:
- Sugarloaf Mountain: A short hike with a big payoff, the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the blazing fall colors below. The hike is moderate, taking around 30-45 minutes to complete.
- Presque Isle Park: Known as the “crown jewel” of Marquette, Presque Isle Park offers an easy loop hike with stunning views of both the vibrant foliage and the Lake Superior shoreline.
Scenic Lookouts:
- Mount Marquette Overlook: Drive or bike up to this overlook for a stunning view of the city of Marquette surrounded by fall’s brilliance.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
- Donckers: For a bite to eat, this historic candy store and restaurant offers a cozy, old-fashioned charm perfect for a chilly fall day.
- Dead River Coffee Shop: Warm up with a cup of locally roasted coffee while enjoying the picturesque downtown views.
Recommended Place to Stay: Our clients over at the North Coast Place offer a cozy and clean stay. They’re less than 10 minutes from downtown Marquette and M-28 (if you’re looking to visit Munising too).
Houghton: A Gateway to Fall Adventure
Houghton, home to Michigan Tech University, is surrounded by forests and hills that come alive with color during the fall. It’s also a great spot to explore if you’re heading further into the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Best Hikes:
- Nara Nature Park: An extensive boardwalk trail that weaves through wetlands and woods, perfect for leisurely walks and admiring the vivid autumn leaves.
- Chassell Trails: Located just outside of Houghton, these wooded trails offer peaceful hikes with beautiful views of fall colors.
Scenic Lookouts:
- Brockway Mountain Drive: While technically closer to Copper Harbor, this scenic drive is worth the trip from Houghton. The road winds up Brockway Mountain and offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and an ocean of fall colors from the Keweenaw Peninsula’s highest point.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
- Ambassador Restaurant: A local favorite for unique hand-crafted pizzas and sandwiches, tostada specialties, crisp salads, and comforting pasta dishes, perfect for refueling after a hike.
- 5th & Elm Coffeehouse: Grab a cozy drink at this student favorite, known for its friendly service and quality espresso.
Ironwood: Nature Meets Adventure
Located on the western edge of the UP near the Wisconsin border, Ironwood is a hidden gem for fall color seekers. With incredible hikes, scenic chairlift rides, and cozy spots to relax, Ironwood offers the perfect mix of adventure and serenity.
Best Hikes:
- Great Conglomerate Falls and Gorge Falls: Located just 11 1/2 miles northwest of Bessemer, Mi. these waterfalls can be accessed by a 3/4 mile hiking trail from a paved parking lot. The hiking trail drops steadily as you near the riverbank. At the falls, the river seperates into two sections, falling 40-feet around an island of conglomerate rock, which gives the falls its name.
- Black River Scenic Byway: Along this byway, you’ll find several stunning waterfalls surrounded by fall foliage, including Rainbow Falls and Sandstone Falls. Short hikes lead to each waterfall, making it a great spot for an afternoon adventure.
Scenic Lookouts:
- Copper Peak: Home to the largest ski jump in North America, Copper Peak offers an amazing experience. You can take a chairlift to the summit, followed by an elevator ride, for a jaw-dropping view of the fall colors stretching for miles.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
- The Golden Dragon: For something different, try this local Chinese restaurant with great portions and excellent service.
- Contrast Coffee: A perfect place to grab a warm drink and watch the autumn leaves fall as you relax in a laid-back setting.
Munising: Gateway to Pictured Rocks
Munising is famous for its stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, but it’s equally impressive in the fall when the towering cliffs are set against a backdrop of colorful foliage.
Best Hikes:
- Chapel Loop Trail: This 10-mile loop is considered one of the best hikes in the Midwest. The trail takes you through dense forests, past waterfalls, and along Lake Superior, offering unbeatable views of the fall colors.
- Miners Castle Trail: A shorter, easier hike to the iconic Miners Castle formation, where you can take in both the unique geology and the fall foliage reflecting on the lake.
Scenic Lookouts:
- Miners Castle Overlook: Whether you hike here or drive, the overlook offers one of the best views of the fall colors along the Pictured Rocks shoreline.
- Grand Island Ferry: Take a ferry ride to Grand Island for stunning vistas of the island’s untouched fall landscapes.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
- Falling Rock Café and Bookstore: A cozy café with a community feel, perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee and a good book after a day of hiking.
- Tracey’s at Roam Inn: For a more upscale dining experience, enjoy the seasonally inspired dishes at Tracey’s, where you can savor local flavors alongside views of Munising Bay.
Ontonagon: Remote and Peaceful Fall Splendor
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Ontonagon is a peaceful town with access to some of the most beautiful, off-the-beaten-path fall color views in the UP.
Best Hikes:
- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Known simply as “The Porkies,” this park is a fall lover’s dream. The Escarpment Trail is a standout, offering unbeatable views of Lake of the Clouds with the surrounding hills ablaze in autumn colors.
- Summit Peak Trail: This short hike takes you to the highest point in the park, where an observation tower offers panoramic views of the forest below.
Scenic Lookouts:
- Lake of the Clouds: A must-see in the Porkies, this lookout offers jaw-dropping views of the deep blue lake nestled amidst vibrant fall foliage.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
- Roxey’s Bar & Grill: A local gem where you can enjoy a hearty meal after a day exploring the wilderness.
- Syl’s Café: A great stop for a classic breakfast or lunch, offering a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
Conclusion: Experience Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Full Fall Glory
From the expansive views atop Copper Peak to the intimate trails winding through the Porcupine Mountains, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an autumn wonderland. Whether you’re hiking through vibrant forests, sipping coffee at a cozy café, or taking in the colors from a chairlift, the UP offers countless ways to experience the beauty of fall. Plan your trip to these iconic UP cities and enjoy one of the most beautiful seasonal transformations in the Midwest!
