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Craving rugged beauty, Great Lakes serenity, and Upper Peninsula adventure? Head to Copper Harbor, Michigan! Tucked at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor offers wild landscapes, scenic drives, and a gateway to Isle Royale National Park. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, lighthouse tours, or Northern Lights gazing, this Lake Superior gem is a remote but unforgettable destination.

Copper Harbor, MI Highlights:

  • For Hikers: Explore Hunter’s Point Park – Stunning rocky shoreline trails and wildflower views right outside of town.
  • For Scenic Drivers: Ride the Brockway Mountain Drive – One of the Midwest’s most scenic roads with panoramic Lake Superior views.
  • For History Buffs: Visit Fort Wilkins Historic State Park – Step back to the 1840s at this restored military outpost with reenactments and exhibits.
  • For Outdoor Adventurers: Ride Copper Harbor Trails – A world-class mountain biking trail network for all skill levels.
  • For Island Hoppers: Take a ferry to Isle Royale National Park – Remote wilderness, hiking, and wildlife await on this Lake Superior island.

Best Time to Visit Copper Harbor, MI

The best time to visit Copper Harbor is from late spring through fall (May–October). Summer offers the most access to hiking, biking, and lake activities. Fall is spectacular for foliage. Winters bring deep snow and appeal to cross-country skiers and snowmobilers—but some services are limited during the off-season.

How to Get to Copper Harbor, MI

  • By Car: Take US-41 north all the way to its terminus in Copper Harbor. It's about 3.5 hours from Marquette or 5 hours from Green Bay, WI.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX), about 1.5 hours south. Rent a car to complete your trip north.
  • By Ferry: Isle Royale Queen IV departs from Copper Harbor in season for Isle Royale National Park.

Where to Stay in Copper Harbor, MI

  • Recommended for Families: Lake Fanny Hooe Resort & Campground – Rustic cabins, lake access, and family-friendly camping right near downtown.
  • For Couples: Keweenaw Mountain Lodge – Historic log cabins, onsite dining, and access to trails and stargazing.
  • For a Cozy Stay: Bella Vista Motel – Clean, simple lodging with lake views and walkability to shops and restaurants.

Best Things to Do in Copper Harbor, MI

1. Brockway Mountain Drive

Rating: ★★★★★

Brockway Mountain Drive

© ehrlif/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Brockway Mountain Drive?
    • Brockway Mountain Drive is a 9-mile-long scenic roadway offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior from up to 1,300 feet above sea level.
  • Where is Brockway Mountain Drive located?
    • The road is located to the west of Copper Harbor and can be accessed from Highway M26.
  • What can visitors see along Brockway Mountain Drive?
    • Pullout viewpoints allow drivers to stop and enjoy views of Lake Superior, Copper Harbor, and the surrounding woodland.
    • On clear days, visibility extends to Isle Royale, which is 50 miles from shore.
  • When was Brockway Mountain Drive constructed?
    • The road was constructed in 1933 through a federal work program.
  • Who is Brockway Mountain Drive named after?
    • The road is named in honor of Daniel Brockway, one of the original residents in this region of the Keweenaw Peninsula.

2. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

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  • What is Fort Wilkins Historic State Park?
  • Where is Fort Wilkins Historic State Park located?
    • The park is located in Copper Harbor, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Superior.
  • How large is Fort Wilkins Historic State Park?
    • The park spans 700 acres and includes historic military structures and natural landscapes.
  • What historic structures can visitors see at the park?
    • The park includes the 1866 Copper Harbor Lighthouse, one of the first lighthouses on Lake Superior.
    • The site features rebuilt and restored army structures, including:
      • Officer quarters
      • Married officer housing
      • Other structures that made up the early fort
  • What unique experiences does the park offer?
    • The state park is staffed by army personnel in period costume, offering an immersive historical experience.
  • When is Fort Wilkins Historic State Park open?
    • The park is open in the summer months for camping and historical tours.
  • What facilities are available for visitors?
    • The park offers camping facilities, including:
      • Cabins and lodges
      • Tent, RV, and group camping sites
      • Picnic areas and modern restrooms
    • A boat launch is also available for visitors.
  • When was Fort Wilkins added to the National Register of Historic Places?
    • The site was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

15223 U.S Highway 41, Copper Harbor MI, 49918, Phone: 906-289-4215

3. Manganese Falls

Manganese Falls

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  • What are Manganese Falls?
    • The Manganese Falls are a 45-foot-tall waterfall located near Copper Harbor, Michigan.
  • Where are Manganese Falls located?
    • The falls are situated less than one mile south of Copper Harbor, off Manganese Road.
  • When is the best time to visit Manganese Falls?
    • The falls are seasonal and are often dry in the summer months.
    • They are best viewed in the spring after the winter thaw.
  • What is the source of Manganese Falls?
    • The falls are sourced by Manganese Creek.
  • Why is visibility of the falls limited?
    • The crest of the falls is often obscured by trees and the narrow gorge they run through.
  • Where is the best place to view Manganese Falls?
    • The best view is from the well-marked scenic point on the trail above the cliffs.
  • How do visitors access the trail to Manganese Falls?
    • The trailhead is accessed off Manganese Road, located on the left half a mile south of Gratiot Street.
    • An alternate view is available from high above the falls on the opposite side of the creek.

9332 Manganese Rd, Copper Harbor, MI 49918

Attractions for Couples

4. Steve Brimm Earth Works Gallery

Steve Brimm Earth Works Gallery

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  • Who is Steve Brimm?
    • Steve Brimm is a Keweenaw Peninsula photographer and the owner of Earth Works Gallery in Copper Harbor.
  • What is Earth Works Gallery?
    • The gallery displays and sells Brimm’s photographs of the natural world.
    • It also features items made by local artists inspired by the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
  • What is Steve Brimm’s background?
    • Brimm is a lifelong outdoorsman and a self-taught photographer.
    • He is passionate about promoting stewardship of the land by sharing his appreciation for its beauty through his photography.
  • Where has Steve Brimm’s work been published?
    • His photographs have been featured in a coffee table book titled Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Spirit of Place.
    • His work has also appeared in several national and regional magazines and businesses.
  • What types of prints are available?
    • Prints are available as postcards, as well as small and large-scale framed pieces.

Steve Brimm Earth Works Gallery, 216 1st St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, Copper Harbor, MI, Phone: 910-319-1650

5. Keweenaw Adventure Company

Keweenaw Adventure Company

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  • What is the Keweenaw Adventure Company?
  • What types of outdoor activities does the Keweenaw Adventure Company offer?
    • Visitors can tour Lake Superior by kayak.
    • Mountain biking is available on nationally known single-track trails in the surrounding hills.
    • Guests can take a guided hike with a trained eco-interpreter.
  • What lodging options are available?
    • Lodging is available in the Adventure Company’s chalet, cabin, or cottage.
  • Who founded the Keweenaw Adventure Company?
    • The company was founded in 1994 by Julie and Steve Brimm, along with partner Sam Raymond.
  • What is Sam Raymond’s background?
    • Sam Raymond worked for over 12 years as the race director for the Copper Harbor Fat Tire Festival.
    • He brings years of mountain biking expertise to the company.
  • What is the mission of the Keweenaw Adventure Company?
    • The company’s mission is to be the hub for all human-powered recreation in the Keweenaw region.

155 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, Phone: 906-289-4303

6. Isle Royale Queen IV

Isle Royale Queen IV

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  • What is the Isle Royale Queen IV?
    • The Isle Royale Queen IV is a passenger ferry that transports visitors between Isle Royale National Park and the port at Copper Harbor, Michigan.
  • How long has the ferry service been in operation?
    • The family-run ferry service has been in operation since 1971.
  • What is the history of the Isle Royale Queen IV?
    • The ferry was originally built in Louisiana in 1980.
    • It was used as a tour boat in New York Harbor before coming to Michigan in 2005.
  • What are the specifications of the Isle Royale Queen IV?
    • The ferry is a 100-foot-long aluminum ship.
    • It is powered by three diesel engines.
  • What amenities are available on board?
    • The ferry offers warm and comfortable indoor seating for the three-hour ride.
    • Guests can also choose to enjoy the views from the deck.
  • How many ferry services operate to Isle Royale National Park?
    • The Isle Royale Queen IV is one of four passenger ferry services that serve the national park.
    • It operates as a concession service for the park.
  • Are vehicles allowed on Isle Royale?
    • Cars are not allowed on the island, which is a designated national wilderness.

14 Waterfront Landing, Copper Harbor, Michigan 49918, Phone: 906-289-4437

Where to Eat in Copper Harbor, MI

7. Mariner North

Mariner North

© Mariner North

  • What is the Mariner North?
    • The Mariner North is a year-round resort located on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
  • What is the history of the Mariner North?
    • The resort dates back to the early 1920s when it was originally established as an inn, restaurant, and bar called The Pontiac.
    • The current buildings were constructed in 1994 after a fire completely devastated the original property.
  • What lodging options are available at the Mariner North?
    • The property includes two small motels, one of which offers a honeymoon suite.
    • Two-bedroom cabins are also available and include fully equipped kitchens.
  • Does the Mariner North have an on-site restaurant?
    • Yes, an on-site restaurant is open to both guests and visitors.
    • The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, offering a menu that includes sandwiches, pizzas, steak, and Lake Superior trout.
  • What views and recreational opportunities does the Mariner North offer?
    • Guests can enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wooded areas.
    • The resort provides easy access to several outdoor recreation opportunities.

255 Gratiot Street, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, Phone: 906-289-4637

8. Harbor Haus Restaurant

Harbor Haus Restaurant

© Harbor Haus Restaurant

  • What is the Harbor Haus Restaurant?
    • The Harbor Haus Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant with a German and Austrian influence, located on the shores of Lake Superior.
  • What type of cuisine does the Harbor Haus serve?
    • The restaurant specializes in German and Austrian-inspired dishes.
    • Meals are made from locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, including fresh fish from Lake Superior.
  • What drinks are available at the Harbor Haus?
    • The bar offers a robust selection of German beers.
    • Cocktails are infused with local berries.
    • The wine list is considered one of the most extensive in the region.
  • What makes the dining experience unique?
    • Every table features picturesque views of Lake Superior through floor-to-ceiling windows.
  • What traditions does the Harbor Haus maintain?
    • The wait staff dresses in traditional South German and Austrian costumes.
    • The team performs a traditional dance on the patio to greet the ferries returning from Isle Royale.

77 Brockway Ave, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, Phone: 906-289-4502

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