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Jun 1, 2020 • 5 min read
An oasis for outdoor lovers of every ilk, Marquette, Michigan is arguably the Midwest’s best-kept secret. This historic, picturesque town is not only a surprising haven for fresh culinary fare and craft libations, but its surrounding landscapes are a year-round hotbed for hikers, bikers, paddlers and adrenaline seekers of all varieties – even during the coldest months. Oh yes, and the Upper Peninsula locals – “Yoopers” – are perhaps the friendliest people on earth. These are just a few of the area’s one-of-a-kind, not-to-miss offerings.
Playing at the lake
Marquette is situated on the south shore of Lake Superior, offering a unique vantage point for exploration by kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or surfboard. From Presque Isle Park – the lush, forested peninsula just north of downtown – one can paddle from the beach or harbor across more than 40 miles of shoreline into hidden coves and inlets. The aquamarine water is crystal clear, allowing for glimpses of bass or trout swimming below the surface.
Presque Isle is not just a popular launching point for paddle sports; it is also where adventurers climb the park’s many cliff faces and walls. On warm summer days, ultimate thrill seekers leap into the sparkling lake from the ashen lakeshore wall known as Black Rocks, where daylight stretches for more than 16 hours.
The park showcases a stunning array of foliage in the fall and mesmerizing frozen ice formations in winter. During stormy days, the waves of Lake Superior can reach ocean-like proportions, attracting surfers, whose joyful calls can often be heard above the crashing breakers.
Discovering waterfalls and sweeping panoramas
The lake is not Marquette County’s only feature when it comes to impressive water attractions. The Upper Peninsula’s rivers and creeks spill into at least a dozen jaw-dropping waterfalls, all viewable via short hikes (most under half a mile), and many are accessible by bike. For foot travelers seeking longer treks, the most panoramic bird’s-eye views are found from the summits of Sugarloaf, Hogback, or Mt. Marquette.
Exploring on two wheels
Rivaling mountain bike trail systems found in British Columbia and across the American West, Marquette’s expanse of singletrack is mind-boggling. Whether soaring around flowy banked turns, grinding up rocky climbs, launching off boulders, or navigating bridge features through dark forests, these trails cater to all levels of riders.
There are also smooth multi-use paths that stretch along the shoreline and weave through neighboring towns – such as the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, a wide paved and gravel path meandering through woods and around ponds, creeks, and historic landmarks between Marquette and Ishpeming. This route is perfect for a pub crawl to the famed craft breweries nestled between towns.
The Upper Peninsula’s snowy winters do nothing to deter two-wheelers in this area; instead, they gear up for fat tires. Volunteer-driven trail maintenance groups like RAMBA and NTN oversee the majority of Marquette County’s trails, grooming more than 75 miles of local singletrack, creating an extensive snow biking community.
Gliding, rolling, and stomping on snow
Aside from snow biking, Marquette is home to one of the Midwest’s most popular downhill ski destinations – Marquette Mountain. With its 15 trails, skiers and snowboarders can descend 600 vertical feet, enjoying stunning views of Lake Superior. Marquette Mountain also serves as an epicenter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, where sleek skiers glide gracefully along dozens of miles of groomed velvet trails that comprise the Noquemanon Trail Network, offering endless options for snowshoeing, snow biking, and skijoring – a thrilling experience where skiers are towed by sled dogs.
Catching the northern lights
There’s no need to travel to the North Pole to witness the ethereal natural night sky display known as the northern lights. As one of the northernmost regions in the contiguous United States, Marquette boasts clear skies and minimal light pollution above Lake Superior. It is arguably the best U.S. town outside of Alaska to glimpse this star-studded phenomenon. Bring your warm clothing, as winter nights are the best times to spot them, either from a beachfront parking lot or, for adventure seekers, from the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, after a strenuous midnight hike.
Eat and drink
With all of this outdoor activity, visitors are likely to crave more than trail mix before and after their adventures. Luckily, Marquette exceeds expectations. Experience herb-infused cocktails and a selection of German-fused comfort fare, including the most flavorful and authentic wienerschnitzel at The Steinhaus, enormous farm-fresh sandwiches at Café Bodega, melt-in-your-mouth croissants at Huron Mountain Bakery, and meticulously prepared whitefish dishes at Vierling Restaurant; all sourced from ingredients swimming in the lake just hours prior.
Moreover, discover a wine bar, one of America’s longest-operating candy stores, and a vibrant craft beer scene that draws eager crowds and live music to its patios in summer and cozy taprooms in winter. Must-visit spots include Blackrocks Brewery and Ore Dock Brewing. Regardless of your dining or drinking choices, the passion and skill put into every sip and bite will satisfy the most discerning foodies and beer enthusiasts.
Brimming with activity, creativity, culinary talent, and good vibes, Marquette’s vibrant characteristics reach far beyond this list. Above all, this dynamic community is a true hidden gem on North America’s outdoor adventure map.
Sponsored by Travel Marquette
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This story was crafted collaboratively between Travel Marquette and iBestTravel, both providing research and curated content to produce this story.
