Hiawatha National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · MI

Hiawatha National Forest

Hiawatha National Forest is a sprawling natural haven located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering a variety of recreational activities amid a landscape rich in lakes, rivers, and lush woodlands.

National Forest894,8364+ Trails
DesignationNational Forest
Total Wilderness Area894,836
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Hiawatha National Forest

Hiawatha National Forest is a sprawling natural haven located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering a variety of recreational activities amid a landscape rich in lakes, rivers, and lush woodlands.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hiawatha National Forest spans approximately 894,836 acres across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Known for its diverse ecosystems, the forest features vast woodlands, numerous lakes, and river systems. This national forest offers abundant recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Hiawatha's history is deeply connected with the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area, and it was established as part of the conservation efforts in 1931. Key landmarks within the forest include the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Grand Island National Recreation Area, both known for their unique geological formations. Visitors are often drawn to the serene beauty of its landscapes and the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. With both developed and primitive campgrounds, and a network of over 450 miles of trails, the forest is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hiawatha National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore✦ Grand Island National Recreation Area✦ Point Iroquois Light Station✦ Trapp Family Lodge trails
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hiawatha National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hiawatha National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees for general access; specific areas like campgrounds may require permits or fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hiawatha National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hiawatha National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Wetmore, Michigan
⌖ 17.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wetmore, Michigan

Wetmore, Michigan, is a low-key outdoor haven perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and snowmobiling. Quiet rivers and expansive state forests make it a great spot for travelers craving authentic northern Michigan adventure.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water and hiking, Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Munising, Michigan
⌖ 19.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Munising, Michigan

Munising invites adventurers to explore its lakeside beauty and vibrant outdoor activities. Ideal for paddling, hiking, and winter sports, it's a great hub for Upper Peninsula exploration.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Rapid River, Michigan
⌖ 20.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rapid River, Michigan

Rapid River, Michigan is a quiet outdoor gateway offering hiking, fishing, paddling, and snowmobiling amid northern forests and waterways. Ideal for travelers looking to explore nature away from busy tourist hubs.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Au Train, Michigan
⌖ 22.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Au Train, Michigan

Au Train, Michigan offers a peaceful retreat on Lake Superior’s rugged shore, perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, winter snowmobiling, and camping. Its wild landscapes invite adventurous travelers seeking both solitude and exhilarating outdoor challenges.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Manistique, Michigan
⌖ 23.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Manistique, Michigan

Manistique, Michigan, offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect blend of forest trails, tranquil lakes, and riverside adventures. Its lakeside setting on the Upper Peninsula makes it a serene place for varied outdoor activities.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Garden, Michigan
⌖ 25.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Garden, Michigan

Garden, Michigan is a quiet town on the Garden Peninsula offering excellent kayaking, fishing, hiking, and winter snowmobiling. Surrounded by protected forests and waters, it’s an ideal spot for outdoor lovers seeking solitude and nature in Michigan’s north.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water and hiking, Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hiawatha National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Vapor Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Au Train, Michigan
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Vapor Kayak

Discover the calm waters of Michigan's AuTrain River with a Vapor kayak rental from Northwoods Resort. Perfect for solo paddlers seeking a peaceful and accessible adventure, this trip offers a front-row seat to the Upper Peninsula's stunning natural beauty.

Self-Guided Tour1 Person | Sit-in Kayak | $40Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Dirigo Tandem Plus
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
Boat TourADV Bookable

Dirigo Tandem Plus

Paddle together down Michigan’s scenic AuTrain River in the Dirigo Tandem Plus kayak. Perfect for groups craving a shared river experience amid nature’s peaceful backdrop.

Boat Tour2 Adults & Child | $55Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Outlaw Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
FishingADV Bookable

Outlaw Kayak

Paddle the scenic AuTrain River comfortably with Outlaw Kayak’s spacious 11.5-foot design—perfect for fishing or a relaxing float on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula waters.

Fishing1 Person | Elevated Seat! | $50Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Sylvan Luxury Pontoon Rental on AuTrain Lake!
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
Guided TourADV Bookable

Sylvan Luxury Pontoon Rental on AuTrain Lake!

Spend a day on AuTrain Lake in Michigan aboard the spacious Blue Moon pontoon. Perfect for groups, with tubing options for added fun on these calm waters.

Guided Tour4-8 Hour Rentals Available on AUTRAIN LAKE• 10 People MaxCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Malibu Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Munising, Michigan
Boat TourADV Bookable

Malibu Kayak

Paddle solo on Michigan’s scenic AuTrain River with Malibu Kayak. Enjoy spacious sit-on-top boats and peaceful natural beauty, perfect for a day of outdoor adventure.

Boat Tour1 Person | Sit-on-top | $40Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Canoe
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
CanoeADV Bookable

Canoe

Paddle the tranquil AuTrain River on a full-day canoe rental, perfect for couples and small groups seeking a peaceful paddle through Michigan’s lush forests.

Canoe$45 | 2 Person | 3rd middle seat optionCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Paddle Board
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Paddle Board

Discover the serenity of AuTrain River with a paddleboard rental from Northwoods Resort. Glide past lush forests and natural rock formations on this scenic water adventure.

Self-Guided Tour1 Person | $35Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Twister Kayak
ADVEXPEDITION
Duluth, Minnesota
KayakADV Bookable

Twister Kayak

Set out on calm waters at Northwoods Resort with the Twister Kayak tour—perfect for paddlers of all levels looking for scenic serenity and aquatic adventure.

KayakBUDGET Adult Size | Sit-on-top | $30Certified Outfitter
From$30
Book Trip
Next Kayak/Canoe Hybrid
ADVEXPEDITION
Marquette, Michigan
Boat TourADV Bookable

Next Kayak/Canoe Hybrid

Navigate Michigan’s AuTrain River in a Next Kayak/Canoe Hybrid—a nimble, stable 13-foot boat perfect for a full day on tranquil waters and gentle rapids.

Boat Tour1 Person | New NEXT Kayak/Canoe Hybrid! | $45Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip