Visitor arriving at Munising Bay are treated to an array of outdoor attractions and activities for every season. Taking center stage, in the middle of Munising Bay, is "Grand Island". A 13,500 acre island that protrudes 8 miles north into Lake Superior and encompasses 35 miles of shoreline. Designated a "National Recreation Area" it offers a retreat for campers, backpackers and mountain bikers as they explore miles of trails, two inland lakes, beaches and 300' sand cliffs. Accessible by passenger ferry only, the island remains isolated from motor vehicle traffic.
Munising Bay provides an entrance way to the spectacular "Pictured Rocks" lakeshore. These 150' to 300' high rock cliffs extend from just outside the bay for more that 15 miles along Lake Superior. Part of the "Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park", which is a 73,000 acre national park covering 40 miles of shoreline. Established in 1966, it has grown in popularity, welcoming over 450,000 visitors each year, many of whom hike part of the 42 mile section of the "North Country National Scenic Trail" it contains.
Pictured Rocks are not all "rock". Contained within the national park are several beautiful white sand beaches for summer enjoyment along Lake Superior. Providing both public and very private swimming enjoyment for the whole family, as well as refreshing stops along the hiking trail. From this point eastward rock turns to sand as 15 miles of it stretch through "Grand Sable Dunes" to Grand Marais
A growing attraction to Munising Bay itself is the "Alger Underwater Preserve". Designated in 1980 as part of a series of Marine Parks in Michigan it protects several shipwrecks in and around the bay and attracts divers from all over the country. Charters to these shipwrecks are available, as well as glass-bottom boat tours for those who like to keep their feet dry.
Due to the surrounding hilly terrain, the Munising area is home to more than a dozen waterfalls (five within city limits). With the spring run-off they really strut their stuff, but even in the wintertime, they provide memorable beauty in crystal caves of ice. No matter what the season, they prove to be a delight to photographers and nature lovers alike, providing keep-sake snapshots and memories.
Surrounding Munising is the western half of the Hiawatha National Forest. Composed of more than 880,000 acres of lush hardwood forest, the national forest attracts over 1.5 million visitors per year. Anglers, canoeists, & kayakers in Spring; hikers, mountain bikers, campers & sightseers in Summer; hunters in Fall; snowmobilers and skiers in Winter; there is something for everyone. The Fall color season, highlighted here, also attracts many visitors.
The natural beauty of the Munising area also appeals to nature lovers, bird watchers and photographers. Subjects for study and images are everywhere. From the abundance of flora and wildlife to the rugged terrain, brooks and streams, there are much to please the senses and fill the photo album.
Hundreds of inland lakes dot the countryside of Alger County; many of which are connected by rivers and streams. These provide a paradise for anglers, canoeists, kayakers and water-skiers. Lodging on many provide the family with access to boating, swimming and fishing or just peaceful reflection and wildlife observation.
Averaging over 150" of snow each year, the Munising area is truly a winter wonderland. Snowmobilers and cross-country skiers migrate north in search of "the white stuff' and find over 300 miles of groomed snowmobiling trails, as well as many well maintained ski trails for every level of skier. Fed by Lake Superior, snow falls for nearly five months; providing plenty of winter fun for the adventurous.
Munising welcomes visitors from all over the world to the many sights and sounds of this northern community. It's natural beauty and small town charm are a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city life. A vacation spot that will long be remembered and soon to be revisited.
