What to do in and around Pictured Rocks

During the summer of 2024 my friends Erin, Tricia and I made our annual US National Park trip to Isle Royale in Lake Superior. This was no easy feat, involving a 12 hour drive to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. One of the best parts of this road trip, besides the amazing company of my friends, were some of the sites along the way, including Traverse City and Grand Rapids. I have wanted to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for several years. I thought I was going to when I visited Traverse City a few years back, but alas I didn’t make it. So I was really excited to be able to plan a stay in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area and explore the area. So read on to find out what to do in and around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Getting to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

To visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula from Columbus, Ohio, expect about a 9-hour drive. Start by taking I-75 North through Toledo, continuing across the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula. The closest town to Pictured Rocks is Munising, known as the gateway to Pictured Rocks. Once in Munising, the park’s cliffs, waterfalls, and beaches are accessible via H-58, a scenic drive along the shoreline. Or, if you prefer flying, the nearest major airport is Sawyer International Airport (MQT) in Marquette, about 45 minutes from Munising. If you’re planning to visit both Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Isle Royale, it’s helpful to know that the two parks are about 3.5 hours apart by car.

About Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has a rich history shaped by both its natural beauty and the people who have lived near its shores. Located along the southern edge of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks became the first designated national lakeshore in the United States on October 15, 1966, when Congress passed the bill to protect the unique landscape. The lakeshore encompasses 42 miles of pristine coastline, stretching from Munising to Grand Marais. Additionally, it covers more than 73,000 acres of land and water.

The formation of Pictured Rocks dates back over 500 million years. Sandstone layers were laid down and then sculpted by the forces of wind, water, and ice. The colorful cliffs, for which the park is named, rise as high as 200 feet above the lake. The striking bands of color are due to mineral deposits. Iron, copper, and manganese seep out of the rock layers and stain the cliffs in vivid shades of red, orange, yellow, and green creating the “painted” appearance that has fascinated visitors for centuries. The name “Pictured Rocks” itself likely originated from early Native American observations of the cliffs’ intricate, naturally painted designs. The colorful rocks are just even more amazing in person, the pictures don’t do them justice, but allow me to try.

What to do around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

In recent decades, Pictured Rocks has gained a lot of recognition. Annual visitation has exceeded half a million people, drawn to the park’s cliffs, waterfalls, and clear blue waters. There are lots of options for visitors of the area, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, boating. Are there are the winter sports too! Read on to find out my suggestions for what to do in and around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore so that you can have an incredible trip of your own- or just live vicariously through me.

Explore Pictured Rocks by boat

To truly appreciate the cliffs of Pictured Rocks, you’ve got to get out on the water. So my first suggestion is a boat tour! Pictured Rocks Cruises, which departs from Munising, offers a narrated journey along the shore. The cruises operate from May to mid-October, with tours typically running between 10:00 a.m. and sunset, depending on the season. Prices are around $45 for adults and $10-$20 for children. During the cruise passengers will see lots of famous formations, including Chapel Rock. Chapel Rock was once part of a larger rock arch that collapsed in the early 1900s. The formation is now famous for the lone pine tree growing on top, with its roots stretching across a gap to the mainland for nutrients. It truly is a sight to see!

Kayak at Pictured Rocks

If you’re seeking a more close-up immersive experience, consider kayaking along the shoreline, which allows you to explore the cliffs up close. And, this is actually how I spent my birthday! To be honest, if the day was up to me I was in favor of the boat cruise to see Pictured Rocks because I am TERRIFIED of water. But I put my trust in my friends who were all-in on this experience. There are several local companies who offer guided kayak tours or even kayak rentals. Rentals typically start around $60 for a half-day. Guided tours, however, can range from $80 to $130 depending on the duration.

Pictured Rocks Kayaking

For our kayaking experience, we opted to book a tour with Pictured Rocks Kayaking. They specialize in launching kayakers directly from their boat, ensuring a convenient and safe experience for all participants. In fact, they are the ONLY company that launches from the water. With this unique approach, people start the adventure from the water, eliminating the need for difficult shoreline entry and allowing access to the most scenic spots immediately. A safety explanation was given to us before we boarded on the boat. And then the experience riding out on the boat in addition to the launching process was so seamless and easy.

Pictured Rocks Kayaking offers two main tour options, each with a different price and experience level:

1. Ultimate Kayak Tour: This tour costs $159 per person and lasts about 4-5 hours, including 2 hours of kayaking. With this tour visitors explore the most famous sections of Pictured Rocks, such as Chapel Rock, Grand Portal, Lover’s Leap, and various sea caves.
2. Miners Castle Tour: Priced at $99 per person, this 3-hour tour includes 1 hour of kayaking and focuses on the shorter stretch near Miners Castle, a popular rock formation. This option is more budget-friendly and ideal for those who want a quicker experience.

My experience kayaking

As I mentioned, I was feeling very apprehensive about kayaking around Pictured Rocks. I was reassured because I was able to be in a two-person kayak with my friend Erin, who has kayaked before. In fact, everyone kayaks tandem. Because we were a group of 3, Tricia got paired up with another single person. Everyone during our tour got split into smaller groups from the boat, with guides taking about 12-14 people. Our guide, Bobby, was so great at making me feel at ease. I told him that not only was I really nervous about kayaking, but also that it was my birthday. He took such good care of us and was always looking out for me. He also gave us lots of great descriptions of what we were seeing.

The water of Lake Superior at Pictured Rocks was so clear, you could see all the way down to the bottom. It was just so unreal and crazy beautiful. We were also lucky that it was a super clear day, and not too hot. Everyone is given life vests and also spray skirts that are supposed to keep you dry. I wasn’t wearing mine correctly, so I got soaked, but I kept all my personal belongings on the boat. I didn’t have a pouch for my phone, and I’ve had some bad luck with losing my phone to the water, so all the pictures you see here are compliments of my friends (thanks Tricia and Erin!)

We were able to kayak around many incredible formations like Lovers Leap Arch, Grand Portal and even go into some caves.

Highlights of kayaking Pictured Rocks

Lover’s Leap: This towering natural arch, standing 250 feet high, allows kayakers to paddle directly underneath its dramatic curve. Its name comes from local folklore, adding a touch of mystery to its beauty- did lovers really leap from this arch?!? It is also sometimes referred to as Petit Portal. The striking colors of the arch combined with the thrill of passing beneath it make it a favorite among adventurers. My friends and I loved seeing it from so close.

Grand Portal: This enormous cliff, rising over 300 feet above Lake Superior, is another highlight of the kayaking tour. Its vast archway and colorful, mineral-streaked face make it a stunning visual spectacle. It once was so large of an arch that boats could pass underneath it. However, in 1906 the roof collapsed. Paddling beside it, you get a true sense of the immense forces of nature.

One of my favorite parts of the kayaking experience was paddling into the caves. Bobby told us what not all kayakers are able to do this, but we were in luck because of the calm weather. Inside, we ducked our heads when the ceiling was low, and we kayaked under tiny arches. I only had the confidence to do this because of how safe and looked after I felt with both our guide but also my kayaking partner, Erin.

Seriously, kayaking the waters of Lake Superior and seeing the colorful cliffs was just incredible and I CANNOT recommend it enough. It made for amazing birthday experience, and I felt so proud of myself for kayaking 5 miles. So I got a good workout in, and it was just stunning scenery. In the end I’m so glad that we opted for kayaking.

Hiking at Pictured Rocks

For those who prefer to stay on land, hiking the trails that run along the cliffs of Pictured Rocks is another excellent option. There are several options for hiking in the area.

Another hiking option is the North Country Trail. It is part of the longest national scenic trail in the U.S., stretching across seven states and passing through Pictured Rocks. This trail offers plenty of options for day hikes or backcountry excursions.

Relax on the Pristine Beaches of Lake Superior

While Pictured Rocks is known for its cliffs, it’s also home to some beautiful, secluded beaches along Lake Superior. Miners Beach is one of the most popular spots, offering a wide stretch of sandy shoreline with views of the cliffs. It’s easily accessible and a great place to relax after a day of hiking.

For those seeking more solitude, Twilight Beach is located on the far eastern edge of the park. It does, however, require a hike to reach. It’s well worth the effort for its peaceful setting and stunning views, especially at sunset. These beaches are open year-round and free to visit, though there are no lifeguards on duty. Also, be warned, waters of Lake Superior are VERY cold, even in summer. I did not swim, but I did put my feet in the water- brr!

Chase Waterfalls Along the Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks is also famous for its waterfalls, many of which are easily accessible by short hikes. The waterfalls are particularly impressive in the spring when the snowmelt increases their flow.

Two waterfalls that we visited while in and around Pictured Rocks were Miners and Munising Falls. Miners Falls is located a short 1.2-mile round-trip hike from the parking area. It is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the park, plunging 40 feet into the Miners River. Munising Falls is just minutes from downtown Munising is another easily accessible spot. A paved trail leads to a viewing platform where you can admire the 50-foot waterfall.

For a more adventurous outing, head to Chapel Falls, located about 15 miles east of Munising. The hike to Chapel Falls is a bit longer—2.5 miles one way—but it rewards visitors with views of the 60-foot waterfall nestled in a forested area. Continuing along the trail leads to the stunning Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach.

Miners Castle

There is so much to see at Pictured Rocks, and while we were only in the area for two days, we tried to fit in as much as possible. One of the areas we chose to explore was Miners Castle. This area offers stunning views, a sandy beach, and access to scenic hiking trails. The Miners Castle Overlook features two platforms, an upper and a lower platform, that provide panoramic views of the sandstone formation resembling a castle. It also allows visitors to have stunning views of the vibrant waters of Lake Superior. Below the cliffs is Miners Beach, a quiet stretch of shoreline perfect for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the sunset. For hiking, there is a 1.2 mile Miners Falls Trail that leads to the 40-foot waterfall.

Planning your visit to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

There is a $25 entrance fee for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This fee is for a seven-day vehicle pass, covering the driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle. For those entering on foot, by bicycle, or by boat, the fee is $15 per person. The annual pass for the park costs $45, and additional options are available, such as motorcycle passes at $20. My favorite option- get the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80 and have access to all the National Parks! And, as always, be sure to check out the website for updates about the park before you travel.

Further Afield

There is a lot to do while in and around Pictured Rocks. If you have more time during your visit there, here are some more suggestions while visiting the area.

Explore the Charming Town of Munising

During our visit to Pictured Rocks, we stayed in Munising, the gateway to Pictured Rocks. Munising is a small but charming town with a rich maritime history. The town’s name comes from the Ojibwe word for “place of the great island,” referring to Grand Island just off its coast. Munising began as a logging town in the 19th century but has since transformed into a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

Where to eat and drink in Munising

Munising, Michigan, and the surrounding area offer a range of dining and drinking options. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink around Munising:

• For a truly Upper Peninsula experience, you have to try a pasty—a traditional Cornish hand pie brought to the region by miners in the 1800s. Muldoon’s Pasties, located just outside Munising, and Muldoon’s II, is known for serving some of the best pasties around. You can choose from beef, chicken, or veggie options, all made fresh. Pasties are hearty and very filling, making them ideal for outdoor adventurers. We bought pasties and had them as a quick lunch before kayaking. We were excited to try pasties after seeing roadside shops all over the UP advertising the tasty treats.
• Another option for traditional pasties is Miners Pasty Kitchen. This small, locally-owned bakery offers a variety of pasty options. They also have a selection of homemade baked goods and desserts. While I tried Muldoon’s, my friends got their pasties from Miners. Both places offered meal deals complete with coleslaw and cookies.
• Tracey’s at Roam Inn is an upscale dining option that provides stunning views of Munising Bay. They specialize in Great Lakes whitefish and other seafood dishes, as well as steaks, pastas, and creative appetizers. They are open from Tuesday-Saturday from 5-10pm.
• Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore offers a great selection of coffee, tea, soups and sandwiches, as well as baked goods made fresh daily. It’s a perfect spot for unwinding with a book or chatting with locals. They also often feature live music and events.
• Across the street from Falling Rock is Eh! Burger which offers gourmet burgers with a local twist. The menu includes creative options like whitefish sandwiches, fried cheese curds, and a variety of burgers that can be customized with different toppings. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking for a quick, tasty meal in a laid-back setting. Outdoor seating is available in the summer, perfect for enjoying a meal with views of the water. It is open 7 days a week from 11-8.

My top choices for food & drinks in Munising:

• Beer lovers like me will enjoy ByGeorge Brewing Co., a locally-owned brewery in downtown Munising. It features a rotating selection of craft beers brewed on-site, including IPAs, stouts, and lighter ales. The brewery has a cozy atmosphere, with indoor seating and a small outdoor patio in the warmer months. We visited on my birthday after kayaking, enjoying flights of beer and listening to a local musician. We really LOVED the beer there. ByGeorge Brewery is open from 12-10 every day.
• Another brewery in Munising is East Channel Brewing Company. The brewery offers a variety of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews, often made with local ingredients. It features a spacious taproom and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to relax after a day of exploring. The brewery frequently hosts events and food trucks. It’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a quality craft beer experience and is open from 2-10 daily.
• And now for our favorite place that we ate while in Munising- Pictured Rocks Pizza. This is the place that SO MANY people suggested to us, and it’s where I had my birthday dinner. I’m not usually a huge pizza fan, being vegetarian and gluten intolerant it can be tough to find good pizza. However. this popular eatery has a huge variety of pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients, including GF pizzas. They also offer pasta, salads and sandwiches. The restaurant has a large outdoor eating area out front which was beautiful and has tons of tables. While there is a large menu of pizza options, I built my own pizza with the local ingredients. Yum yum- I’m drooling just thinking of it.

Venture to Grand Island

Just offshore from Munising, Grand Island National Recreation Area offers a quieter, more rugged alternative to Pictured Rocks. This 13,500-acre island is rich in natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs, old-growth forests, and hidden beaches. The island is accessible via a short ferry ride from Munising, which costs around $25 for adults and $15 for children. The ferry operates from May to October, with crossings every half hour.

Tahquamenon Falls

If you’re looking for a day trip from Pictured Rocks, a visit to Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a must. Located about 1.5 hours east of Munising, this park is home to Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The Upper Falls are particularly impressive, spanning 200 feet across and dropping nearly 50 feet. A paved trail leads to several viewing platforms, offering spectacular views of the falls. The Lower Falls, located four miles downstream, consist of a series of smaller cascades. The park is open year-round, and a $10 daily pass is required for Michigan residents, while non-residents pay $15. For those interested in camping, the park offers campsites and cabins.

Hiawatha National Forest

Covering nearly 900,000 acres, Hiawatha National Forest spans so much area, and we noticed many signs for it during our drive through Michigan. The forest has hundreds of lakes, rivers, and streams, making it a great spot for outdoor adventuring. Hiawatha National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, moose, and bald eagles, making it a popular destination for wildlife viewing and photography. The forest is open year-round and offers plenty of camping options. There are also miles of hiking trails, including the Whitefish Bay National Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of Lake Superior.

Winter Adventures in Pictured Rocks

While Pictured Rocks is a popular summer destination, it’s also a winter wonderland for those who enjoy cold-weather activities. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular in the winter, with several trails available in the park and surrounding areas. For snowmobilers, the Upper Peninsula is crisscrossed with hundreds of miles of trails, including routes that pass through the national forest and along the lakeshore. My cousins Heather & Dave are huge fans of snowmobiling in Michigan. Many of the local businesses in Munising cater to winter sports enthusiasts, offering rentals, tours, and accommodations. Another unique winter activities in Pictured Rocks is ice climbing. In winter, the park’s waterfalls freeze, creating towering ice formations that are a magnet for climbers. The town of Munising hosts an annual Michigan Ice Fest in February, attracting ice climbers from around the world.

I’d been wanting to visiting Pictured Rocks for years, and I’m so glad that I was able to visit summer of 2024 with my friends. I had no idea that the Upper Peninsula was so beautiful, but I fell in love with it and I can’t wait to visit again in the future. I would love to hear from you if you’ve been, as well as your suggestions for the best places to check out for my future trips, because I will be back. Thanks for reading my blog about what to do in and around Pictured Rocks national lakeshore. Catch you soon!

-Catching Katie