Must-Haves | Expert Reviews

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers some of the most spectacular hiking, backpacking, and trail running experiences in the Midwest. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for your adventure along Michigan's stunning Lake Superior shoreline.

Overview

Location: Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Distance: 42-mile Lakeshore Trail (full length)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Time: May through October
Permits: Required for overnight camping

🏞️ Why It's Special

Pictured Rocks features dramatic multicolored cliffs, pristine beaches, waterfalls, and crystal-clear Lake Superior waters. It's one of the few places where you can experience true wilderness along the Great Lakes.

Trail Highlights

Miners Castle

The most famous formation, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. Accessible via a short walk from the parking area.

Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach

A stunning rock arch with a tree growing from the top, accessible via a moderate 2.8-mile hike from Chapel parking area.

Munising Falls

A 50-foot waterfall that you can walk behind. Easy 0.6-mile round trip hike suitable for all skill levels.

Grand Sable Dunes

Massive sand dunes offering panoramic views of Lake Superior. Great for sunset viewing and photography.

Hiking Options

Day Hiking

Popular day hike sections include:

Miners Castle to Miners Beach: 2.8 miles round trip
Chapel Loop: 10.4 miles, moderate difficulty
Grand Sable Dunes: 1.5 miles to Log Slide overlook

Backpacking

The full 42-mile Lakeshore Trail typically takes 3-5 days:

Day 1: Munising to Chapel Beach (12 miles)
Day 2: Chapel Beach to Beaver Creek (8 miles)
Day 3: Beaver Creek to Twelvemile Beach (12 miles)
Day 4: Twelvemile Beach to Grand Marais (10 miles)

Trail Running

The lakeshore trail offers excellent trail running opportunities with varying terrain:

Beach running along Lake Superior
Forest single track
Rocky coastal sections
Sand dune climbs

Planning Your Trip

Permits and Reservations

Backpacking permits required for overnight camping
Reserve online at recreation.gov starting in February
Popular dates fill up quickly, especially summer weekends
Day use requires no permits

When to Visit

Peak Season (July-August): Warmest weather, most crowded

Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Fewer crowds, variable weather

Winter: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, extreme cold

⚠️ Weather Considerations

Lake Superior creates its own weather patterns. Temperatures can be 20-30°F cooler near the lake. Fog and sudden weather changes are common. Always pack layers and rain gear.

Essential Gear

Hiking/Trail Running

Sturdy hiking boots or trail runners
Layers for temperature changes
Rain jacket and pants
Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
First aid kit
Plenty of water and purification

Backpacking Additions

Four-season tent (wind protection)
Warm sleeping bag (temperatures drop at night)
Bear-proof food storage
Portable stove (fires restricted in some areas)

Water and Food

Water Sources

Lake Superior (requires purification)
Several streams along the trail
Hand pumps at some backcountry sites
Always treat water before drinking

Food Storage

Bear canisters required for some areas
Food lockers available at designated sites
Never leave food unattended

Getting There

Eastern Trailhead: Grand Marais, Michigan

Western Trailhead: Munising, Michigan

Nearest Airport: Marquette (1.5 hours to Munising)

Shuttle Services: Available between trailheads (seasonal)

Safety Considerations

Cliff edges can be unstable - maintain safe distance
Lake Superior water is cold year-round
Weather changes rapidly
Limited cell phone coverage
Inform others of your plans
Carry emergency communication device for remote areas

More Reviews Coming Soon

We're continuously testing new gear and updating our reviews. Check back regularly for the latest recommendations and in-depth analysis.