Explore the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Munising is home to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Grand Island National Recreational Area, in addition to the Hiawatha National Forest.  Located 43 miles east of Marquette along State Highway M-28, Munising has a population of about 2,000.  The city is considerably smaller than Marquette (the largest city in the UP) to the west. The city has a welcoming vibe, and hosts the vast beauty of the southern Lake Superior shore.

As a side note, are you looking for more information on recreation, culture, and unique lodging options in Marquette, Michigan? If so, check out my 2025 Adventure Guide: Recreation, Culture, and Food in Marquette, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Miners Castle

Along Miners Castle Road, also known as M-11, Miners Castle can be accessed just 11 miles northeast of Munising.

Two viewing areas allow you to see Miners Castle from an upper and lower viewing platforms.  Both viewpoints can be accessed by hiking the short, half-mile loop. In addition, the North Country National Scenic Trail also passes through Miners Castle.  I’d recommend both the loop trail and the one-mile trail segment down to Miners Beach (featured below).  Pets are welcome, though they must be leashed.

The views are incredible, and well worth the trip!

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Miners Beach

You can’t visit Miners Castle and Miners Beach without also checking out Miners Falls.  The falls are also located off of Miners Castle Road (M-11) about 4 miles inland from Miners Castle.  Once you park in the small parking area, you can access the falls via a short hike (.6 miles each way).  The falls is about 50 feet in height, and is well worth the short hike!

Speaking of waterfalls, if you’re spending a day or two in Munising, don’t forget to check out Munising Falls at Washington Street and Sand Point Road.  The falls are within the city limits, accessed by an 800-foot paved trail (open to wheelchairs).  Pets are allowed on this trail, though they must be leashed.

 

**NOTE: Munising Falls trail is closed until further notice due to heavy rainfall and flooding throughout the region in April 2025.  Be sure to plan ahead and check the National Park Service Alerts for specific information on trail closures.

Gear for Your Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Adventures:

Weather along the shore of Lake Superior can be chilly, especially in the summer. If you plan to hike in Munising, make sure you have a comfortable pack to carry your gear.  I recommend Osprey’s Talon 11. I have worn this pack faithfully for 10 years and it has never let me down.  The Talon 11 has comfortable padded shoulder straps with safety whistle, curved back-panel for ventilation; in addition, it has a continuous-wrap hip-belt, two water bottle compartments storage space.

For more casual adventures, consider the Daylite Sling. For a smaller waist pack option, consider the Transporter Waist Pack, which functions as a sling or a waist pack.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  If you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

A visit to Munising, Michigan and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will leave you breathless.  It will also leave you with a new appreciation for the beauty and vastness of Lake Superior and its southern shoreline.  Whether you plan to spend a day or a week in Munising, hike, or just take in the sights, there is no shortage of scenic views, nature, history, and adventure.

Enjoy your visit to Munising, Michigan!

-Erin