Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Paddle Pictured Rocks

Recently, USA Today readers chose Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as the best destination to view fall foliage and it’s no surprise. While the multicolored cliffs in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are stunning year-round, in Autumn, the vistas are magnificent. Vibrant scarlets, vivid oranges, and deep burgundies line the cliff tops and reflect off the crystal blue waters of Lake Superior – further illuminating the hues in the sandstone rock face.

Whether you’re kayaking or cruising near towering cliffs, hiking among colorful trees, or enjoying a scenic drive throughout the park, you’re sure to make memories that’ll last a lifetime. Need more? Check out why fall is the perfect time to Paddle Pictured Rocks:

A Color Show Close Enough to Touch

For an adventure with plentiful autumn hues, book a trip with Pictured Rocks Kayaking where you’ll see the most beautiful parts of the park up close. Not only will you take in brilliant sights, but you’ll also be able to explore the many sea caves of the lakeshore and easily reach out to touch the mammoth cliffs.

Learn More About Kayaking Pictured Rocks

The best part is, you’ll get a leisurely cruise out of it, too. Pictured Rocks Kayaking is the only outfitters that launches your kayak offshore and right where the most notable scenery begins. The boat will then be nearby to assist you if you need it – or just there for a bathroom break.

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Scenic Fall Views from the Water

Another fantastic way to soak in the fall foliage around Pictured Rocks is by taking a tour along the lakeshore. Visit Munising, the park’s western gateway, and climb aboard a Pictured Rocks Cruises boat tour. Be sure to take your camera on this relaxing but extraordinary trip to capture some iconic photos of Pictured Rocks landmarks surrounded by the striking shades of the season.

Learn More About a Pictured Rocks Cruise

Hike Among the Colorful Trees

It’s best to get a couple different perspectives, right? So, after a tour on the water, why not see colors from another viewpoint. The hundreds of miles of trails in the Pictured Rocks area are just waiting to be explored. Walk one of many self-guided nature trails and see a vast array of nature and wildlife – trails to the overlooks are paved and generally not arduous treks. Check out Miners Castle, Miners Beach near it, and be sure to explore some of the waterfalls.

Best Waterfalls of Michigan’s UP

Enjoy a Beautiful Scenic Drive

For a different kind of cruise, take H-58 to the scenic highway that runs along the Pictured Rocks park. Check out Sable Falls and the Log Slide overlook, with its enormous sand dunes that tower atop the 300-foot high Grand Sable Banks. These dunes are located west of Grand Marais, the park’s eastern gateway.

Don’t miss out on this autumn adventure! Learn more about a kayaking tour today.