The fall season in Michigan is perhaps one of the most beautiful times of the year. Vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow foliage can be seen in all areas of our wonderful state. A popular fall Michigan attraction are color tours. However, knowing when and what routes to take can be tricky. In the beginning of the fall season Michigan’s Upper Peninsula tends to experience the greatest change in color, whereas in the late fall season Michigan’s Lower Peninsula experiences its peak color. If you are thinking about taking a fall color tour this year and plan to explore the scenic Upper Peninsula, here are a few suggestions as you plan your route.
Munising
The city of Munising features many different beautiful fall color attractions. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a popular summer destination, but is also just as pretty in the fall. Hiking along the shoreline of Lake Superior you will see stunning fall colors that overlook the royal blue lake, waterfalls, and streams. Experience more of Pictured Rocks as you kayak through caves and see fall foliage above you as you pass by Indian Head, Grand Portal, and Chapel Rock. Grand Island is also another wonderful fall attraction in Munising to spend a few hours hiking, biking or exploring.
Tahquamenon Falls
Located a few miles west of Paradise, Michigan is Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Stretching over 13 miles, this state park features great trails for those looking to hike, fish, canoe and more. The Upper Tahquamenon Falls is the second largest waterfall east of the Mississippi with a width of over 200 feet across. About four miles downstream are the Lower Falls that features five small waterfalls. The variety of different trees that surround the falls provide a picturesque backdrop of different colors during the fall season.
Porcupine Mountains
Porcupine Mountains State Park is Michigan’s largest state park covering over 60,000 acres. Located throughout the communities of Ontonagon County, the Porcupine Mountains offer many different ways to experience the fall colors. Bikers can enjoy 21 miles of mountain biking trails, while hikers can explore 87 miles of trails. Summit Peak is a beautiful area to see fall colors and can be reached from South Boundary Road. It is the highest point in the Porcupine Mountains and the views from the top are spectacular. You can also experience fall color by taking a chair lift ride at the Porcupine Mountain Ski Area.
Copper Harbor
Located at the northern peak of the Keweenaw Peninsula you will find the small community of Copper Harbor. The region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities allow for many ways to experience the abundance of fall colors that Copper Harbor offers. As you drive into Copper Harbor you will ride through “Tree Tunnel” on US-41 where colorful trees will surround you from all sides. Brockway Mountain is another beautiful stop on your fall color tour through Copper Harbor. The drive up to the top of Brockway Mountain is about 8 miles long and can be accessed through state highway M-26. At the top of Brockway Mountain, you will see a fabulous view of Lake Superior and colorful rolling hills. Since Copper Harbor extends into Lake Superior, temperatures differ from other southern cities of the peninsula, so colors tend to peak a couple weeks later than normal.
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