Essential Guide to Planning Your Ultimate Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Adventure
- Lindsay & Justin
- Mar 16, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Apr 11
Looking to experience the majestic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore without spending countless hours planning? As meticulous travelers who have extensively explored this natural wonder, we've done all the heavy lifting for you. We've tested every trail, stayed at various accommodations, and discovered the best ways to experience the park's stunning sandstone cliffs, so you don't have to learn through trial and error. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share our tried-and-true tips for making the most of your Pictured Rocks adventure, from choosing the perfect time to visit to finding the best viewpoints for those Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning explorer, we'll help you craft an unforgettable trip without the stress of planning.
Table of Contents: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Planning
When to visit Pictured Rocks
The best time to visit Pictured Rocks depends on your preference. To enjoy the waters and beaches, the optimal time is between June and August. However, these months also attract the most tourists. Some people prefer May to avoid crowds, or September and October to witness the beautiful fall foliage.
Here are the average temperatures in Pictured Rocks by month:
May: 60°F
June: 69°F
July: 74°F
August: 73°F
September: 65°F
How to get to Pictured Rocks
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is accessible by car from major cities such as Detroit and Chicago. Alternatively, you can fly into Sawyer International Airport and rent a car for the final leg of the journey.
Visitors to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore must have an entrance pass. Passes cost between $15-$25 (2024 pricing) and can be purchased on the nps.gov website ahead of your trip.
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Getting around Pictured Rocks
The best way to get around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is by car. There are also several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park on foot.
Additionally, during the summer months, there are boat tours that provide a different perspective of the stunning rock formations and waterfalls. For the adventurous, kayaking is another popular way to navigate the lakeshore. It's important to note though, the area is large, so planning your visit and means of transportation ahead of time is highly recommended.
By Boat Tour:
We recommend booking a tour with Pictured Rocks Cruises. This cruise offers a unique opportunity to view the towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife up close. For available times, please check their website.
By Kayak Tour:
We suggest booking a tour with Pictured Rocks Kayaking. You can check the exact departure times here. It's advisable to book your tickets online in advance, particularly during the peak season.
How Long To Stay in Pictured Rocks
A visit of 2-3 days is typically sufficient to explore and enjoy the main attractions of Pictured Rocks. However, if you plan on participating in multiple activities such as hiking, kayaking, or boat tours, you might want to consider extending your stay to a full week.
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Where to stay in Pictured Rocks
The Munising area is often recommended as the best place to stay when visiting Pictured Rocks due to its proximity to the lakeshore and various local attractions. It offers a range of accommodation options from campgrounds to hotels. Grand Marais is another good option, especially for those seeking a quieter, small-town experience.
Explore all of your options below:
Camping in Pictured Rocks
Luckily, there are a fair amount of campgrounds at Pictured Rocks that now allow booking in advance. However, be sure to book several months in advance if you want to secure a spot, as most that you can reserve are highly desirable. The remainder of campgrounds in Pictured Rocks are first come first serve. Twelve Mile Beach Campground (36 sites) is one of the most desirable campgrounds due to the campsites proximity to the beautiful Lake Superior and northern hiking trails (book very far in advance).
Little Beaver Lake Campground (8 sites) is more centrally located within the park and most campsites back up to Little Beaver Lake (campsite #3 is very nice). Although small, this is our top pick campground due to its proximity to epic hiking trails. Please note, both of these campgrounds are rustic with vault toilets and no running water, electricity, or phone reception (recipe for a great weekend!). If you would prefer to backpack instead of drive-up camp, be sure to review the backcountry camping guidelines ahead of time. If you are not a camper, we recommend staying in Munising, a charming town on the southern end of the park.
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Upper Peninsula Camping Tips:
Read up on Bear Safety ahead of your trip - over 9,000 black bears live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Although black bears are less of a threat than grizzly bears, bear spray is still a good precaution. This is an excellent video demonstrating how and when to use your bear spray.
Opposed to grizzly bears, if a black bear approaches you be sure to FIGHT BACK.
Before entering the park, buy bear mace from a store in Munising or Marquette - We used Frontiersmen and although we never needed to use it, felt it was a reliable choice.
Bring a separate set of clothes to only wear in the tent to avoid the scent of food that could be on your clothes throughout the day
Purchase unscented shampoo/soap/deodorant etc. and avoid any body sprays/perfumes/cologne when tent-camping
Download your hiking trails on AllTrails ahead of your trip because phone service is limited to none while hiking.
Bring waterproof jackets/pants
Top Things To Do in Pictured Rocks
Some of the top activities include hiking along the many trails, kayaking in Lake Superior, exploring the caves, and taking a boat tour to see the stunning rock formations and waterfalls. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Chapel Rock and Grand Sable Dunes.
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FAQs About Visiting Pictured Rocks
What is the best way to see the Pictured Rocks?
The best way to see the Pictured Rocks is through a combination of hiking, boat tours, and kayaking. Each offers a unique perspective and allows you to explore different aspects of the park.
What town is closest to Pictured Rocks?
The town closest to Pictured Rocks is Munising, Michigan. It is a popular base for visitors due to its proximity to the lakeshore and offers a variety of lodging options.
📚 Also Read: Things to Do in Traverse City, MI
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Can you see Pictured Rocks without hiking?
Yes, you can see Pictured Rocks without hiking. Boat tours and kayak rentals are available that allow visitors to see the rock formations from Lake Superior. Also, some viewpoints are accessible by car.
📚 Continue Reading: Pictured Rocks Kayaking: Adventure Guide
Can you drive through Pictured Rocks?
Yes, you can drive to various points within Pictured Rocks, but you cannot drive through the entire park. There are several parking areas near key attractions that are connected by hiking trails.
Are there bears in Pictured Rocks?
Yes, black bears are native to the Pictured Rocks area, but sightings are relatively rare. Visitors are advised to store food properly and keep a safe distance if they encounter a bear.
General safety measures when hiking in bear territory include carrying bear spray, making noise to avoid surprising a bear, and never leaving food or trash unattended. If you encounter a bear, it's important to avoid eye contact, back away slowly, and never try to run.
What time of the day is best to see Pictured Rocks?
The best time of the day to see Pictured Rocks is generally in the early morning or late afternoon, as the lighting during these times can really enhance the colors of the rocks. However, the views are stunning at any time of the day.
📚 Continue Reading: 10 Epic Things to Do at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers an unforgettable adventure along Michigan's stunning Lake Superior coastline. From the towering sandstone cliffs to hidden waterfalls, this natural wonder provides endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you choose to camp under the stars, hike the scenic trails, or take in the views from a boat tour, your visit to Pictured Rocks will be truly memorable.
Ready to start planning your Pictured Rocks adventure? Download our free 35-page planning guidebook to make your journey even easier. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram @Noms.Brews.Views for daily travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes looks at our latest explorations!
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This has been so helpful to read!
Thank you so much!