Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, known affectionately as the U.P., is a land of rugged beauty, serene landscapes, and a treasure trove of natural wonders. Stretching from the iconic shores of Lake Michigan to the pristine waters of Lake Superior, the U.P. offers a road trip experience like no other. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone in search of a tranquil escape, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through the best of what the Upper Peninsula has to offer.
In this detailed guide, I’ll share my personal experiences and insights from traveling through the U.P., providing you with all the essential details you need to make the most of your road trip.
Why Choose a Road Trip in the Upper Peninsula?
The U.P. is Michigan’s hidden gem—fewer crowds, breathtaking views, and a mix of outdoor adventures await you. Whether you’re discovering majestic waterfalls, hiking through lush forests, or gazing out at the tranquil waters of Lake Superior, every stop along the way feels like a new discovery. And the best part? The drives are just as scenic as the destinations themselves, with overlooks and breathtaking landscapes around every corner.
If you only have five days to explore, this itinerary will take you through some of the most awe-inspiring destinations—from Munising’s famous waterfalls to the serene shores of Lake Superior.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Time Frame: The U.P. is vast, and there’s much to see. But, with a 5-day itinerary, you can cover a good portion without feeling rushed.
- Driving Conditions: Expect some long stretches of highway, but rest assured, the views make the journey worthwhile. Some of the drives can be remote, so ensure your vehicle is well-prepared.
- Weather: The weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers for chilly mornings and evenings, especially near the lakes.
- Essentials: Don’t forget your camera, hiking shoes, water bottle, and sunscreen.
Day 1: Begin in Munising—Waterfalls and Boat Cruises
Morning
Start your journey by driving into Munising, the gateway to some of the U.P.’s most iconic sights. Munising, located along the shores of Lake Superior, is the perfect place to begin your adventure.
I recommend hitting the road early to make the most of the day. As you approach Munising, you’ll be greeted by beautiful views of towering cliffs, lush forests, and sparkling water. If you’re coming from the south or another state, plan for a few hours of driving to get here.
What to See
- Waterfalls Tour: Munising is known for its picturesque waterfalls, and you have options to choose from. While I was in the area, I explored Wagner Falls, Alger Falls, and Munising Falls. Each has its own charm, and all are just a short drive or walk from downtown. If you’re pressed for time, don’t miss Munising Falls, located right near the visitor center.
- Wagner Falls: A quiet, scenic waterfall that’s easy to access via a short walk.
- Alger Falls: A stunning cascade of water, perfect for a quick stop and photo op.
- Munising Falls: The most iconic waterfall in the area, located just minutes from downtown Munising.
After soaking in the beauty of these falls, take a short drive toward the famous Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a must-see stop during your Upper Peninsula adventure.
Afternoon
- Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise: The highlight of Day 1 is undoubtedly the Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise, one of the most popular activities in the U.P. During the 2.5-hour cruise, you’ll witness the stunning rock formations that give the Pictured Rocks its name. This part of the itinerary should not be rushed, as the views from the boat are simply mesmerizing—caves, cliffs, and turquoise waters will leave you speechless.
Book your tickets in advance, as this popular activity often sells out quickly. Tickets range from $38-45, and it’s worth every penny for the experience.
Tip: Be sure to arrive early to claim the best seats, as they are first-come, first-serve. I recommend sitting on the upper deck for an uninterrupted view of the spectacular cliffs and formations.
Evening
After the cruise, I suggest taking a leisurely stroll through downtown Munising, where you’ll find quaint shops and cafes to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Muldoon’s Pasties & Gifts: No visit to the U.P. is complete without trying a pasty—this iconic Upper Peninsula dish is a savory pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. I stopped by Muldoon’s for a pasty, and it was the perfect ending to a busy day of sightseeing. Make sure to order the traditional version with beef, potatoes, and rutabaga.
- Sand Point Beach: For a peaceful end to your evening, head to Sand Point Beach. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over Lake Superior. The golden hues reflecting on the water made for an unforgettable view.
Day 2: Explore More of Munising and Nearby Attractions
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Falling Rock Café & Bookstore—a cozy local café where you can grab a hearty breakfast before another day of adventure. I had a smoked whitefish bagel with a latte, and it set the tone for the day.
- Miners Castle Overlook: After breakfast, head to Miners Castle Overlook—one of Munising’s most famous landmarks. The view from the top is iconic, offering a sweeping panorama of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. The upper overlook provides a quick and easy view, but if you’re up for a little extra adventure, take the 0.5-mile hike to the lower overlook for an even better view. It’s one of those places where you could spend an hour simply soaking in the beauty.
Afternoon
- Hike Chapel Basin Loop: If you’re up for a hike, the Chapel Basin Loop is a must-do. This 6.2-mile trail will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the area, leading you to Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and Chapel Beach. The hike is easy to moderate, with a well-maintained path and rewarding views along the way.
- Chapel Falls: A scenic waterfall that’s perfect for a quick stop and a photo op.
- Chapel Rock: A unique rock formation that seems to defy gravity, with a tree growing out of the rock itself. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in the U.P.
- Chapel Beach: This secluded beach is the perfect spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Evening
After the hike, treat yourself to a delicious meal at Eh! Burger, a local joint known for its burgers and fish dishes. I recommend trying their whitefish burger or grabbing a classic burger with some crispy tots. If you’re in the mood for pizza, head to Pictured Rocks Pizza for a tasty slice after a day of exploration.
If you’re not quite ready to call it a day, consider a visit to Shooter’s Firehouse Brewpub for a cold drink and some live music.
Summary of Day 1 and 2
These two days will set the stage for your adventure in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With a mix of waterfalls, scenic hikes, and boat cruises, you’ll be immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty. You’ll also have opportunities to relax and enjoy the local flavors, from pasties to craft beer.
Day 3: Grand Marais – A Hidden Gem Along Lake Superior
https://www.visitcookcounty.com/
Morning
On Day 3, we venture a bit further east to Grand Marais, a small, charming town that offers some of the best views and activities in the U.P. The drive from Munising to Grand Marais is absolutely stunning, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. As you drive along H-58, you’ll pass through dense forests and along the edge of Lake Superior, offering perfect photo opportunities at every turn.
Before hitting the road, grab a quick breakfast at Bay Furnace Bagels in Munising. I had their classic bagel with cream cheese, which was the perfect energy boost for the scenic drive ahead.
Afternoon
- Log Slide Overlook: Upon arriving in Grand Marais, one of the first places you’ll want to stop is Log Slide Overlook. This scenic spot provides sweeping views of Lake Superior, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can slide down the sand dunes for a unique experience. The history of the site is fascinating, as it was once used to move logs down the dunes to Lake Superior, but today it’s a fun, memorable stop.
- Au Sable Point Lighthouse: If you have time, make sure to visit the Au Sable Point Lighthouse. It’s about 12 miles from Grand Marais and offers incredible views of the coastline and the lake. You’ll need to hike about 1.5 miles each way (3 miles round trip), but the journey is definitely worth it for the serene beauty at the end.
- Sable Falls: On your way into Grand Marais, take a short detour to Sable Falls. This 0.5-mile trail (including 168 steps) is easy to navigate and takes you right to a stunning waterfall. It’s a perfect stop if you’re looking to stretch your legs after the drive.
Evening
- Agate Beach: Spend your afternoon at Agate Beach, one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches I’ve visited. The shoreline is dotted with agates, and if you’re lucky, you might find one during your walk. Bring your towel, enjoy the warm sun, and take a relaxing stroll along the beach as the waves gently crash along the shore.
- Grand Marais Tavern: For dinner, head to Grand Marais Tavern, which quickly became one of my favorite spots in the U.P. With its wooden interior and lakeside views, it offers a cozy atmosphere and some of the best whitefish I’ve ever had. The food is locally sourced, and you’ll feel like you’re truly experiencing the flavors of the U.P.
As the evening winds down, don’t miss out on the chance to catch the sunset at Agate Beach—the sun setting over Lake Superior is nothing short of magical.
Day 4: Paradise – The Gateway to Tahquamenon Falls
Morning
Day 4 starts with a visit to Paradise, Michigan, a quiet town that sits at the intersection of tranquility and adventure. It’s called Paradise for a reason—this is where nature truly shines. On your way, I recommend a quick breakfast at one of the few spots in town, like Paradise Pizza Factory or French Coast Café, where you can fuel up before a day of outdoor exploration.
After breakfast, take the scenic drive along M-123 toward Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The drive itself is beautiful, as it weaves through thick forests and offers occasional glimpses of Lake Superior.
Afternoon
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park: This is one of the Upper Peninsula’s most famous attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The park stretches over 52,000 acres, offering numerous trails, picnic areas, and, of course, the stunning falls. There are two main falls in the park: the Upper Falls and Lower Falls.
- Upper Falls: The Upper Falls is the largest waterfall in the state, standing at 50 feet tall and 200 feet wide. It’s an impressive sight, and it’s easily accessible via a short walk from the parking lot.
- Lower Falls: The Lower Falls is more of an adventure. To get there, you’ll need to take a 9-mile hike or a short drive. Once you arrive, you can rent a rowboat to paddle out to the island and get a closer view of the falls.
Tips for visiting: Be sure to bring a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case, as the mist from the falls can get you quite wet, especially if you choose to visit the Lower Falls by boat. I highly recommend spending a few hours here exploring the park, taking photos, and just soaking in the beauty of the falls.
Evening
- Brown Fisheries Fish House: For dinner, don’t miss Brown Fisheries Fish House—a local favorite for fresh whitefish. If you’re a seafood lover, this stop is a must. Their whitefish sandwiches are to die for, and the fresh fish is caught daily from Lake Superior.
Day 5: The Final Stretch – A Relaxing Day in Paradise
Morning
The final day of your road trip can be as laid-back or adventurous as you’d like. Start your morning with a slow breakfast at one of Paradise’s charming spots. Afterward, you can explore the area or spend some time relaxing by the lake.
Afternoon
If you haven’t yet had your fill of Tahquamenon Falls, Day 5 is the perfect opportunity to revisit or hike some of the lesser-known trails in the park. Or, if you’re in the mood for more beach time, head back to Agate Beach or explore one of the nearby pristine spots along Lake Superior’s coast.
Another great option is to visit Whitefish Point, which sits at the northernmost point of the eastern U.P. Whitefish Point is known as the “graveyard of the Great Lakes” due to the number of ships lost here. It’s home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, where you can learn about the tragic history of the area.
Summary of Day 3-5
The last three days of your road trip will take you through some of the U.P.’s hidden treasures, including Grand Marais, Tahquamenon Falls, and Paradise. Whether you’re hiking to stunning waterfalls, soaking in the beauty of pristine beaches, or enjoying a meal with a lakeside view, these days will wrap up your adventure in the best possible way.
The Upper Peninsula’s natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming small towns make it the perfect road trip destination. With a blend of relaxation and adventure, this 5-day itinerary offers an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
