Copper Harbor, Michigan
Location: Lake Superior
Ease of Getting There: 8/10
Ease of Staying There: 10/10
Ease of Eating There: 9/10
Website of Town: copperharbor.org
The end of the road and the wild beginning of an adventure – in Copper Harbor, Michigan, you will find both. Take a deep breath of fresh air and be energized by the beauty of the land, water and sky. Explore the miles of rugged back country or kayak the surface of Lake Superior, taking in all the natural beauty.
Bike down Brockway Mountain on world-class trails, collect rocks on the beach, discover the history of copper in this region, and more. Not far off the coast is the Isle Royale National Park, an isolated island surrounded by Lake Superior. Hop on a three-hour ferry ride to explore the beauty of this national park. If you are fortunate enough, you might even see the Northern Lights. Each season offers its own pleasure and beauty. Hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, riding ATVs, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing or snowmobiling, you can have fun outside no matter when you visit this northern destination. If you feel like taking a long drive, there are plenty of scenic drives you won’t want to miss, especially during leaf-peeping season.
For history buffs, head to Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. Built in 1844, Fort Wilkins was supposed to keep law and order during the Copper Rush. Through historic interpretation, the fort showcases life in the area during the mid-1800s. This park also includes two lighthouses built in 1866 and 1868. If you’re interested in touring an actual copper mine, head to the Delaware Copper Mine, which is located 12 miles south of Copper Harbor. Eight million pounds of copper were removed from the five shafts at the mine.
For food, Copper Harbor features local favorites and specialties that will stimulate your palate and offers everything from family fare to fine dining. You will find unique shops, friendly people and affordable prices that will go easy on your pocketbook. The lodging options include cabins, B & Bs, campgrounds and motels.
From Detroit, Copper Harbor is 600 miles north (roughly a 10-hour drive). From Chicago, it’s 461 miles away (roughly a 7 ½-hour drive).
If you keep going when US-41 ends in Copper Harbor you will find a two track dirt road that will take you into the forest. When you can not drive anymore, get out and look for the Thimbleberries. They are abundant in forests of the northwestern Upper Peninsula and Isle Royale. Bears like them too so be careful. You will also find local purveyors of the highly sought after Thimbleberry jam. Do not buy just one jar , its so good, you will miss it when its gone. You could also buy online from our local Monks of Holy Transfiguration Skete in Eagle Harbor who operate the
JAMPOT @ poorrockabbey.com. You may also see signs in front of houses as your out and about exploring “Thimbleberry Jam Here” Stop and go knock on the door,you will not be disappointed.