Lake Superior
Lake Superior
Almost An Island
Presque Isle means "Almost An Island", our name given by French explorers traveling from Lake Superior and down the Black and Presque Isle Rivers to our region and beyond. Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, is a short day trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. You can reach the BIG lake in less than an hour, and it's well worth the drive! Head straight to the Lake, or make plans to hike or visit the waterfalls along the way.
Black River Harbor is a wonderful destination point, with waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, a park and picnic area, picturesque setting with a swinging-walking bridge overlooking the river's entrance into the Lake, and idyllic beaches and cool (cold!) refreshing water that is certain to awaken your senses. It's a wonderful place to picnic and catch the setting sun. You can also fish these cold spring waters for Trout in the spring, and those more experienced may even choose to launch your boat for a day on the water. Please be safe and certain to always check the weather as Lake Superior is a large, powerful lake whose weather can change quickly. The day use area is managed by the Ottawa National Forest. For more info or questions, please contact teh Bessemer Ranger District at 906-932-1330.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (60,000 acres) is one of the few remaining large wilderness areas in the Midwest. Towering virgin timber, secluded lakes, and miles of wild rivers and streams make a visit to the "Porkies" a trip to remember. Black bears, and of course, porcupine are common in the Porkies. Choose to start your day's adventure with a stop at the Visitor's Center, which has knowledgeable staff on hand to assist you in choosing your activities for the day. The Porcupine Mountains Visitor Center introduces visitors to the rich wilderness heritage of this 60,000-acre park. Set alongside the largest old-growth hardwood-hemlock forest in the Great Lakes region, the center features exhibits and programs that tell the story of Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula.