In previous posts about Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, I have concentrated on the other aspects about the park besides the beautiful cliffs. I have posted a fall foliage photo essay, a post highlighting the other features including a lighthouse, forest, and amazing sand dunes, and two posts about the waterfalls.
Grand Portal Point is one of the favorite views along the lakeshore
Related: Pictured Rocks fall color photo essay
Related: Pictured Rocks Spray Falls
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Photo essay
Lets get real though, the real reason people visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is for the amazing cliffs along the Lake Superior shoreline. I would be remiss if I did not speak and highlight the number one amazing aspect about the park. The cliffs and shoreline did not disappoint as you will see in this photo essay.
Either kayak, take a cruise, or hike along the coast
The best way to see the cliffs is through a cruise. The boat takes visitors from Munising, Michigan to Spray Falls and back. A more adventurous route is to canoe or kayak the shoreline. There are several accessible campgrounds along the way if you want to make a couple day trip out of it.
The views from the North Country hiking trail are not too shabby either although you do not get the view from the lake. There are numerous observation points where you can gaze at the length of the shoreline. So many in fact, that it can be difficult to make time on the trail. The nice part about hiking is you get views from far away, and then from up close, and then as you walk past you get view of the cliffs from the other side. This is advantageous due to the light. Sometimes the sun is not optimal for taking pictures, but then this changes when you hike to the other side.
You can see rock formations from near and far while hiking
You can also drive to certain points
A road trip is another option. Visitors can drive in and park at some spots and then hike to the overlook. I would recommend hiking the 43 mile North Country Trail, but that kind of adventure might not be feasible for all. Route H58 follows the shoreline and there are several places to park where you can hike into the shoreline including Chapel Road and Beaver Lake. At Miners Castle, the road goes all the way to the shoreline, so this is the most accessible place to view the cliffs.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Spray Falls overlook
Another view of Grand Portal Point
Chapel is a popular camping spot thanks to this beautiful creek and Chapel Rock in the background
Miners Castle
For more information, check out the park website.
Adventure on!
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What a spectacular area Ted and such wonderful lighting in some of the shots. I would definitely like to see this part of the world.
Leigh recently posted..Skating, Skiing & Biking the Lake Windermere Whiteway
I am so glad I finally decided to explore this park more. It was amazing.
Absolutely fantastic views! I am sure cruising along these sights must be mesmerizing.
Renuka recently posted..Top Two Cities Of India – Delhi vs Mumbai
Pictured Rocks is so beautiful and not many people are aware of it even close by.
You continue to make me want to get adventurous in the midwest… truth be told I never heard of this national seashore, but your photo essay certainly makes me want to visit and explore… thank you for once again showing the beauty inside my country.
stay discovering, Craig
Craig Zabransky recently posted..Get the Sunset Mindset – The 2015 Sunset Sunday Calendar
I visited this park for like 5 minutes many years ago as I was just passing through. I am glad I finally returned and spent more time exploring.
It reminds me a little but of the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road – except with vegetation! And good job picking the perfect light for the photos!
Raul (@ilivetotravel) recently posted..A Hike in Tallulah Gorge State Park
Thank Raul,
It is hard to believe this beautiful park is in Michigan. Michigan has many surprises though.
You never cease to amaze me with your brilliant hiking adventures. It makes me want to break out my boots and hit the trail.
Leah recently posted..Hotel Spas: The Ultimate Way to Unwind
Thanks Leah,
I am glad I inspire.
Gorgeous shots. I really would like to spend more time exploring the areas around all of the Great Lakes. Wonderful!
Charles McCool recently posted..5 Minutes With Charles McCool
I am lucky to live so close to the Great Lake system. There are so many spots like this around the 5 beauties.
I know I don’t have to tell you how much I love Pictured Rocks. I’ve always wanted to kayak there, as you mention. I think it would make for awesome photos! (So long as I have a waterproof camera….)
Francesca (@WorkMomTravels) recently posted..History and sophistication at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Kayaking Pictured Rocks would be pretty sweet. They have a number of campsites along the way designed for kayakers and canoeists.
I love your photos, Ted. My sister and I will be hiking there in 2 weeks. I think the Fall colors should already be starting then and I can’t wait.
Thank you Rachael. End of September should be just about perfect.