Pictured Rocks!🌿☀️🌅🌲

This was one of my favorite spontaneous weekend getaways with Cody.🩷 We decided a few days before 4th of July weekend that we were going to take this trip. We camped in Au Train which is about a 20 min drive from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. There are a few campsites along PR but due to our last minute booking, we had to get a campsite a little further! This was cool though because Au Train is a super cute little town and Au Train beach was up the road from us. We drove to Munising for the majority of our trip. This town is adorable with cute coffee shops and great food. That’s where you’ll find the PR cruise and kayak rentals etc! We went the beginning of July which was perfect weather, maybe even a little on the cold side so be mindful of that.

If you go, please be respectful to nature and everyone there.🫶

Have you been? Lmk if you have any questions. ☺️

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

#picturedrocks #michigan #upperpeninsula #travelwithme2024 #summerroadtrip

2024/12/12 Edited to

... Read moreFollowing up on my amazing spontaneous Pictured Rocks trip, I wanted to share a deeper dive into making your own Michigan Upper Peninsula adventure truly unforgettable! While our trip came together last-minute, you can absolutely plan a fantastic getaway, even if you’re winging it a bit. One hidden gem we discovered was staying in Au Train. It’s such a charming, quieter town, just a short 20-minute drive from the main action at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Au Train Beach itself is a beautiful spot – with its rocky shoreline and calm waters, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a sunset stroll. The surrounding dense forest gives it that quintessential Michigan feel, and it was a peaceful base away from the busier areas. To truly appreciate the iconic 'colorful cliffs' of Pictured Rocks, getting out on Lake Superior is a must. We saw glimpses of the stunning turquoise water and towering rock formations from various viewpoints, but a boat tour or kayaking adventure provides unparalleled views. Imagine paddling or cruising past those vibrant, multi-colored cliff faces, some with dark streaks, and even catching sight of small waterfalls cascading down – just like those breathtaking scenes you see from an aerial perspective! It's incredible to witness the sheer scale and natural artistry of these formations up close, with lush green trees crowning the cliff tops. You might even spot kayakers navigating the clear, refreshing water near the cliffs. Beyond the lake, the Pictured Rocks area offers incredible hiking. While our trip was spontaneous, I definitely recommend exploring trails like the Chapel Loop. We stumbled upon paths winding through dense green forests, offering glimpses of sparkling blue lakes and leading to hidden wonders. Don't miss Munising Falls, which cascades beautifully down a multi-layered rock cliff, surrounded by vibrant green foliage. It’s a refreshing stop and a testament to the diverse natural beauty here. Keep an eye out for wildlife too; we even saw a deer on a sun-dappled dirt path! For accommodations, if you're like us and planning a 'last-minute' trip, be prepared to look a little further out for camping. We found a lovely forest campsite, complete with space for two tents, a picnic table, and a stone fire pit – perfect for evening relaxation. Even in early July, Lake Superior can be chilly, so pack layers for both water activities and evenings by the campfire. And always, always remember to be respectful of nature and the pristine environment of this beautiful National Lakeshore. Whether you're taking a scenic boat tour, kayaking Lake Superior's clear waters, or simply relaxing on Au Train Beach, the memories you'll make in Michigan's Upper Peninsula are truly special.