Munising, Michigan

Terrain // Grass | Cost // $40 per night | Our Rating // 8

Overview

The fall foliage here was absolutely breathtaking. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. There were many different scenic spots to view the gorgeous trees and Lake Superior. Initially, we were only going to make a day trip to Munising from Tahquamenon Falls to see the famous Pictured Rocks. We’re so glad we decided to spend a few days here instead, as there were so many incredible scenic spots we could check out in a day. It was my favorite part of the trip. Fun fact, we learned that Yoopers are people who live in the UP. Neat!

Where We Stayed

We camped in a small private campground in Christmas, Michigan, called Silent Nights Campsites (get it?). This was a short drive outside of Munising and some of the more popular hiking trails. There are only four camp spots here, but they're large, and the owners had some complimentary firewood.

Pictured Rock Boat Tours

This excursion was absolutely worth the money to get a unique view of Munising’s Pictured Rocks. You get some fun commentary from the captain and experience the rocks up close. We booked with Pictured Rocks Cruises. Be sure to check the weather when you plan on going. If the water is too choppy, they don’t take the boats out. We had to wait a couple of days past what we originally planned in order to go out on the water.

Hiking

All Michigan State Parks require a Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry. For non-residents, it was $39 for an annual pass that expires at the end of the calendar year that it was purchased.

Wagner Falls Lookout

This is a quick, simple out-and-back boardwalk trail to this cute little waterfall.

Miners Castle Trail

This quick, half-mile trail gives you a peak at some of the beautiful pictured rocks from an aerial perspective.

Miners Falls Trail

Walking through these trees was like walking through a fairytale. They were so incredibly tall and full of color. After a little over half a mile, there was

Grand Island Scenic Overlook

There are a few overlooks in the area. They’re easy to get to, and it's worth checking them out.

Food & Drink

Foggy’s Steakhouse – Definitely is worth a visit. This place was right down the road from our campsite. I got their seafood alfredo and let me tell you, it was one of the top 5 alfredo dishes I’ve ever had. Michael got their deep-fried white fish, and it was also very delicious.

Muldoon’s Pasties & Gifts – Pasties were posted all over the city. We learned that they’re basically a portable pot pie. Instead of gravy on the inside, you pour it on top. They were absolutely delicious! People were stocking up on them, getting 10-40+ to take back and store for the winter.

Munising Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market – We love checking out local farmer’s markets when we’re able. This was actually their last market of the season, and we were able to pick up some fresh veggies, homemade soap, cookies, and a loaf of artisan bread.

Cooking Carberry’s Wood-Fired Pizza – We tried a couple of personal pizzas. They had some truly unique flavors we wish would’ve been brave enough to try; savory blueberry and ginger rhubarb.