Waterfall Road Trip through Michigan's Upper Peninsula

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Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Michigan’s stunning Upper Peninsula? From the vibrant hues of the fall foliage to the majestic waterfalls that dot the region, this itinerary promises an extraordinary journey through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Midwest. Over just twelve days, you’ll navigate iconic state parks, take exhilarating boat tours, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and join us as we set off on an epic road trip through the natural wonders of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Let the adventure begin!

Where to Stay:

Day 1: Paradise, MI

Days 2-6: Munising, MI

Days 7-9: Copper Harbor, MI

Days 10-12: Ontonagon, MI

Know Before You Go:

Many places in the UP are closed or have limited hours from October through April.
If you click on any park name throughout the itinerary, you will be taken to a park-specific post with more information on lodging, dining, cell service, and trail tips for that park.
Both Pictured Rocks and Tahquamenon Falls utilized shuttles. Please click on the park name for more information.
Book your Pictured Rocks boat tour in advance- Pictured Rocks Cruises. It was one of my FAVORITE ways to experience the park, and you won’t want to miss the views from the water.
Please print or grab a map before heading out on any trail. Several trails have limited signs with several splits. (Want to check out AllTrails+? Use this link for a discount- AllTrails+.)
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has so much wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. Please review wildlife safety before heading out.
Do NOT use canoes or recreational kayaks on Lake Superior. Sea kayaks are the only type of kayak that should be used.
Plan for all weather, on every trail. The weather and lake conditions can suddenly shift from sunny and calm to stormy, bringing massive waves and harsh winds.
The biting flies can get brutal near the shore. Repellent does not work on them. Wear loose pants and thick socks.
As always, please follow Leave No Trace principles.

12-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Upper and Lower Falls via the River Trail (10.7 mi., 6.7 with shuttle)
Whitefish Point/Shipwreck Museum

Day 2

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Spray Falls/Bridalveil Fall Boat Tour
Munising Falls (0.4 mi.)
Wagner Falls (0.3 mi.)
Alger Falls (roadside)

Day 3

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Miners Falls (1.5 mi.)
Miners Castle (0.5 mi.)
Miners Beach/Elliot Falls (1.4 mi.)
Sand Point/Marsh Trail (0.5 mi.)

Day 4

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Sable Falls (0.6 mi.)
Grand Sable Dunes Trail (0.6 mi.)
Log Slide Overlook (0.4 mi.)
Au Sable Light Station (3 mi.)
Lake Superior Overlook
Beaver Basin Overlook

Day 5

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Chapel Loop Trail (Chapel Falls, Chapel Beach Falls, Mosquito Falls- 10.2 mi.)

Day 6

Rock River Canyon Wilderness, Laughing Whitefish Fall State Park

Au Train Falls (1 mi.)
Laughing Whitefish Falls (1 mi.)
Rock River Falls (2 mi.)

Day 7

Marquette

Morgan Falls (2.8 mi.)
Dead River Falls (1.8 mi.)
Drive to Copper Harbor

Day 8

Keweenaw Peninsula

Manganese Falls (roadside)
Montreal Falls (2.5 mi.)
Haven Falls (roadside)
Eagle River Falls (roadside)
Jacob’s Falls (roadside)
Silver River Falls (roadside)
Brockway Mountain Drive (9-mile scenic drive, one-way)

Day 9

Keweenaw Peninsula

Hungarian Falls (Upper, Dam, Middle, & Lower Falls- 2 mi.)
Douglass Houghton Falls (0.5 mi.)
Hunter’s Point Trail (1.7 mi.)

Day 10

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Lake of the Clouds Overlook (1.8 mi.) or Escarpment Trail (8.2 mi.)
Presque Isle River Waterfalls Loop (Manabezho Falls, Manido Falls, Nawadaha Falls- 2 mi.)
Sunset at Summit Peak Observation Tower (1 mi.)