From the southwest corner to Munising, the Mitten State is more than just blue. Tour Michigan’s most famous rock structures and sights.
When it comes to natural beauty, Michigan is more known for water than it is for rocks. But water is exactly what’s needed to make spectacular displays and gives the Mitten State its share of impressive formations and diverse terrain to explore – especially in the Upper Peninsula. So get out the GPS and make your way to these eight destinations.
- Bear Cave, Buchanan
On the west side of the state near the Warren Dunes is Bear Cave, dubbed one of the “Coolest Caves in the Midwest for Michigan Families to Visit” by Metro Parent Open May through October during regular business hours, the small cave is only 4-6 feet wide and 10-15 feet high. Getting into the cave requires going down a winding staircase. Historically, Bear Cave was where a bank robber stashed his stolen cash in 1875.
While you’re there… Break out the fishing poles and enjoy some time on the St. Joseph River.
- Stone Circle, Beaver Island
Purposely positioned or just a trick of the imagination? The rocks are natural, but their placement doesn’t seem to be. Complete research still needs to be conducted to help solve the mystery. There seems to be a center rock and then various rocks surrounding it, many with the appearance of carvings and lines.
While you’re there… Enjoy a picnic and a swim at one of the island’s many inland lakes.
- Turnip Rock, Port AustinA wondrous natural formation in Lake Huron can be reached only by kayak, or perhaps on foot in the winter months across miles of ice. The area around it is privately owned so it’s not accessible by land. Despite being the least accessible formation on this list, you would be remiss to not include Turnip Rock, as it is always reachable for the adventurous spirit and pioneer at heart.
While you’re there… Go spend the day at the beach, such as at Bird Creek County Park or the more secluded Jenks Park.
- Arch Rock, Mackinac IslandSeeing this natural limestone formation requires getting off the highway, hopping a ferry, and peddling a mile or two. There are two ways to reach Arch Rock: by biking along the coast of the island on a paved road and ascending a few flights of stairs, or by biking/walking one of the inland trails. A walkway will get you near Arch Rock and it’s quite a spectacular sight with Lake Huron as a backdrop. From the roadway, it towers nearly 150 feet high – quite an impressive spectacle! It’s a very popular stop for visitors.
While you’re there… If you go by bicycle, continue the ride around the island (8 miles) and then indulge yourself on some fudge from one of the island’s many fudge shops.
- Castle Rock, St. IgnaceThree miles north of the Mackinac Bridge is Castle Rock, which rises nearly 200 feet above the surrounding landscape. A favorite tourist destination for decades, it’s easy to see why if you make the 170-step trek. You’ll be rewarded with vast views of Mackinac Island and sparkling Lake Huron. The Ojibwa Tribe used it as a lookout point long before there was a gift shop, known as “Pontiac’s Lookout.” It’s open every day, early May through mid-October.
While you’re there… Take a picture with the legendary Paul Bunyan and Babe the Big Blue Ox, a unique Michigan landmark.
- Marble Head, Drummond IslandThe 8.6 mile trail features cliffs overlooking Lake Huron. It’s the easternmost point in the UP, which means if you get there early enough, you can be the first in the state to see the sun rise in the morning. It’s about four miles to the cliffs, but if you have an ATV or ORV, the ride won’t take any time at all. Reach Drummond Island by ferry or air, though if you go by ferry, you can take your RV along and stay at one of the island’s campgrounds.
While you’re there… You won’t be in want of trails, so take your time and explore the trail system. Bring a camera along – the scenery, up close and in the distance, is nothing short of incredible.
- Miners Castle, MunisingAbout seven miles east of the town is Miners Castle, rising above Lake Superior. One of the most-photographed formations in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, there is a visitor’s platform just a short walk from the parking area. A few miles more east and you can see the Chapel Rock formation. An 80-foot waterfall, Chapel Falls, is nearby so don’t miss that!
While you’re there… Go on a Pictured Rocks kayak tour or cruise out of Munising to really see all the national lakeshore has to display.
- Alligator Eye, Lake GogebicStanding atop of this high bluff, visitors can take in the beautiful Lake Gogebic, the largest lake in the Upper Peninsula that’s famous for walleye fishing. From the water, Alligator Eye is part of a larger rock formation that looks like, you guessed it, an alligator. The trail leading to the overlook is less than half a mile long through the forest. Just make sure to bring the bug spray.
While you’re there… You’ll put some miles on the RV reaching this one since it’s in the county farthest west, so make it worth your while by touring some of the area’s picturesque waterfalls.