Lake Superior National Lakeshore wilderness guide
National Lakeshore · MI

Lake Superior National Lakeshore

Lake Superior National Lakeshore offers stunning vistas of the largest of the Great Lakes and features majestic cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse ecosystems.

National Lakeshore71,3984+ Trails

Designation

National Lakeshore

Total Wilderness Area

71,398

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lake Superior National Lakeshore

Lake Superior National Lakeshore offers stunning vistas of the largest of the Great Lakes and features majestic cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse ecosystems.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Lake Superior National Lakeshore stretches for 42 miles along the Lake Superior coast. It encompasses about 71,000 acres of land and water, with rugged cliffs, sweeping dunes, and pristine beaches. The park is rich in history and culture, from the indigenous people who once inhabited the area to the 19th-century shipwrecks lying offshore. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the park's diverse recreational opportunities, such as hiking, kayaking, and camping. Notable landmarks include the 200-foot sandstone cliffs at Miner’s Castle, the striking natural arch of Lover's Leap, and the historic Au Sable Light Station. The park is also a haven for wildlife, hosting species from black bears and otters to a wide variety of birdlife, making it a popular spot for bird watching. Visitors can soak in scenic views from trails like the Chapel Loop Trail and enjoy unparalleled stargazing away from city lights.

Field Guide · National Lakeshore
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lake Superior National Lakeshore

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

Miner's CastleChapel Rock and BeachAu Sable Light StationLog Slide Overlook
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lake Superior National Lakeshore

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Lake Superior National Lakeshore
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

There are no entrance fees for the lakeshore, but certain activities may require permits.

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 Lake Superior National Lakeshore

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

Little Beaver Lake Campground

A small, secluded campground near Little Beaver Lake offering beautiful, serene surroundings.

Hurricane River Campground

Located near the picturesque Hurricane River with easy access to the Au Sable Light Station trail.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lake Superior National Lakeshore

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

Grand Marais, Michigan
18.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Grand Marais, Michigan

Grand Marais, MI is a hidden gem on Lake Superior, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, kayaking, and scenic vistas amidst the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Munising, Michigan
19.41 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
Wetmore, Michigan
19.95 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
Au Train, Michigan
26.03 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
Seney, Michigan
26.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Seney, Michigan

Seney is a quiet Upper Peninsula town best known as the gateway to Seney National Wildlife Refuge. Outdoor lovers enjoy hiking, paddling, snowmobiling, and abundant wildlife viewing in peaceful northern Michigan wetlands and forests.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Deerton, Michigan
34.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Deerton, Michigan

Deerton is a small, peaceful town in Michigan’s Huron County offering easy access to paddling, hiking, fishing, and peaceful bird watching. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet natural escapes near Lake Huron.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lake Superior National Lakeshore

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

Lectric XP 3.0 — Electrifying the UP from Au Train
ADVEXPEDITION
Au Train, Michigan
E-BikeADV Bookable

Lectric XP 3.0 — Electrifying the UP from Au Train

A concise field guide to the Lectric XP 3.0 in Au Train, outlining its top speed, pedal‑assist ranges, and passenger limits so riders know what the bike can—and cannot—do.

E-BikePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Elk Lake Six‑Bedroom Lakeshore House — Family Weeks from $8,600
ADVEXPEDITION
Kewadin, Michigan
LodgingADV Bookable

Elk Lake Six‑Bedroom Lakeshore House — Family Weeks from $8,600

Weeklong (or multiweek) rentals of a six‑bedroom, lakeside home on Elk Lake with fully equipped kitchens, outdoor living areas and an optional pontoon; this guide lays out what to expect when booking and staying.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip