North Manitou Island is fifteen thousand acres of wilderness located in the middle of Lake Michigan. Visitors to this Michigan island get to experience various outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, identifying wildlife, exploring the island village and ghost towns, finding inland lakes, and learning the stories of the islands people and its history.

  • What is the history of Native American presence on North Manitou Island?
    • Native Americans were living on North Manitou Island by 1000 BCE and possibly as early as 11,000 to 8000 BCE.
    • The island is one of the richest archaeological spots in the Lakeshore, especially along the cliffs at the northern end.
    • The Woodland Period (600 BCE to 1620 CE) was the most distinct period of cultural occupation on the island.
  • What role did logging play in North Manitou Island’s history?
    • North Manitou Island was a key site for logging, supplying wood for steamships on the Great Lakes.
    • Nicholas Pickard was one of the earliest loggers, landing on the island between 1844-1846.
    • By 1860, the island had become a small "melting pot" of immigrants with a population of 269 and 56 households.
  • When was the first school built on North Manitou Island?
    • The first school was built in 1895 and could seat thirty-six students.
  • How did North Manitou Island serve as a weigh station?
    • North Manitou Island acted as a weigh station where people and goods were unloaded to await transfer to other boats.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy on North Manitou Island?
    • North Manitou Island is perfect for visitors who enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, swimming, and exploring.
  • Where can visitors camp on North Manitou Island?
    • There is a small campground with eight designated campsites, two fire rings, and one outhouse.
    • Camping is permitted in the wilderness areas, but open fires are not allowed.
  • How many miles of trails does North Manitou Island have?
    • Hikers on North Manitou Island enjoy twenty-three miles of maintained trails.
    • These trails offer paths through maple and beech trees, old farms, and along cliffs overlooking Lake Michigan.
  • Can visitors swim on North Manitou Island?
    • Visitors enjoy the gentle waves of Lake Michigan when swimming along the shore.
  • What wildlife can visitors explore on North Manitou Island?
    • Visitors interested in exploring and studying wildlife will find diverse habitats across the island’s various stretches of beaches and wilderness areas.
  • What historical sites can visitors explore on North Manitou Island?
    • History buffs will enjoy exploring the North Manitou Village and the ghost town of Crescent.
    • The remaining buildings are connected with the US Life-Saving Station, Cottage Row, and the Manitou Island Association.
  • Where is North Manitou Lake located?
    • Hikers can take several different trails to Lake Manitou, which is about 2.5 miles from the village.
    • Visitors can camp and fish at the lake.
  • What educational opportunities are available at North Manitou Island?
    • Field Trips - Sleeping Bear Dunes offers educational trips for students.
    • Teacher-Ranger-Teacher Program - Teachers can spend the summer as a park ranger and bring their knowledge back to the classroom.
    • Distance Learning - Online courses are available for teachers and students.
    • Wilderness Ambassador Youth Program - High school students spend a week in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, learning wilderness skills and conservation.
    • Junior Ranger Program - Kids learn about Sleeping Bear Dunes and how to protect it.
    • Artist in Residence Program - Writers, composers, and visual artists capture the beauty of the park in their artistic medium.
  • What special events take place on North Manitou Island?
    • The island leads a deer hunt every year to help control the deer population and preserve native vegetation.

9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630, Phone: 231-326-4700, Map


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (May) – Cooler temperatures and blooming wildflowers, great for early hiking. Camping on the Island – There are no hotels; visitors must camp in designated areas. Prepare for rustic conditions – Bring all necessary gear, as there are no services on the island.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and exploring. Backcountry Camping – Enjoy secluded camping with stunning views of Lake Michigan. Take the ferry from Leland – Book tickets in advance as space is limited.
Fall (September-October) – Fewer visitors and beautiful fall foliage, but cooler temperatures. Primitive Camping – Be prepared for chilly nights and changing weather. Explore the island’s ghost town – Discover remnants of old homesteads and logging sites.
Winter (November-April) – Not accessible to the public due to harsh weather and ferry closures. N/A Plan visits during open seasons – The island is only accessible from late spring to early fall.

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