Hiking the Summit Peak Tower Trail near Summit Peak Trailhead
Adventure Destination

Hiking the Summit Peak Tower Trail near Summit Peak Trailhead

Hike the easy 0.8-mile Summit Peak Tower Trail near Ontonagon, MI, for breathtaking views of the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior. Ideal for families and photographers, with best visits in spring or fall.

Hiking7.8/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Introductory Overview

Hiking the Summit Peak Tower Trail offers a quintessential Porcupine Mountains experience, providing unmatched views and a chance to immerse yourself in Michigan’s raw natural beauty. As the highest point in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Summit Peak rises to 1,958 feet above sea level, and its observation tower boasts panoramic vistas that stretch as far as Lake Superior and neighboring forests. This trail seamlessly combines an accessible hike with rich rewards, making it ideal for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Editorial Assessment

The Summit Peak Tower Trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and Lake Superior, making it an appealing location for outdoor enthusiasts. The area provides an excellent opportunity for hiking and nature photography, though it may not have the widespread recognition of more iconic global landmarks.

Hiking the Summit Peak Tower Trail near Summit Peak Trailhead

Adventure Guide to Hiking the Summit Peak Tower Trail near Summit Peak Trailhead

1

- Trailhead Location: Begin your adventure at the Summit Peak Trailhead, located off South Boundary Road, just 15 miles from the Porcupine Mountains Visitor Center. Parking is spacious and well-maintained, with easy-to-spot trail markers.

  • Details: **Trail Highlights**: The **Summit Peak Tower Trail** is a well-maintained, 0.8-mile out-and-back hike that gently ascends through hardwood forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant wildflowers in the spring and stunning foliage during autumn. The trail culminates at a 50-foot-high wooden observation tower, offering soaring views of the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior. This is also an excellent spot for photography.
  • Details: **Trail Features**: A combination of **boardwalks, gravel paths, and moderate inclines** make this trail accessible for most fitness levels. Rest stops and benches along the way provide an opportunity to catch your breath or soak in the serene environment. Informative plaques also share details about the local flora and fauna.
2

Local Insights

  • Overview: Summit Peak is a glacially carved feature, and on clear days, the observation tower provides visibility spanning more than 20 miles. Early mornings often feature low-lying fog in the valleys below, creating a dramatic visual effect. In fall, the area bursts into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, making it one of Michigan’s top spots for leaf-peeping.
3

Visitor Tips

  • Details: **Best Time to Visit**: Sunrise or late afternoons for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Details: **What to Bring**: Comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, bug spray, and a camera.
  • Details: **Driving Directions**: From the Porcupine Mountains Visitor Center, drive South Boundary Road for 15 miles (approx. 30 minutes) to reach the trailhead.

Reviews

L
Lynn Much3 weeks ago

Very beautiful look out tower! Lots of steps up and down of course as you going to a very high tower to look out at all the scenery. The day we were there was very smoky, from the wildfires. But once we got to the

E
Eric Fehrenbach2 months ago

Great view. Pretty easy walk. But lots of steps.

C
Chuck Beyer3 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

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Carli Leet3 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
Steven Duncan10 months ago

Nice walk climbing a 6 story outlook

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