Baraga MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Baraga, Michigan.
1. Silver Mountain
SCENIC VISTA POINT
Silver Mountain offers panoramic views over the rolling Upper Peninsula forests and is especially stunning in the fall when the leaves burst with color. Visitors can climb steep stairways to reach the lookout points and explore the remnants of the historic fire tower. The site is a favorite for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking sweeping natural vistas in Baraga.
2. Hanka Homestead Museum
HISTORIC FARMSTEAD EXPERIENCE
The Hanka Homestead Museum preserves the story of Finnish settlers through original log buildings and authentic farm artifacts. Guided tours share details of pioneer life in Baraga County from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This living history site offers a step back in time, surrounded by peaceful rural scenery.
3. Lower Silver Falls
HIDDEN WATERFALL ESCAPE
Lower Silver Falls is a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall nestled within a lush forest setting just outside Baraga. Accessible by a short hike, this spot is ideal for waterfall watching, picnicking, and taking photos. The tranquil surroundings make it a favorite stop for travelers seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
4. Baraga State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Baraga State Park offers visitors access to Lake Superior's Keweenaw Bay shoreline, with spacious campsites and diverse outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and nature walks within the park's scenic grounds. The park is also known for its excellent birdwatching and peaceful, family-friendly environment.
5. Sand Point Lighthouse
HISTORIC LAKE SUPERIOR LANDMARK
The Sand Point Lighthouse stands as a testament to the region's maritime history at the edge of Keweenaw Bay. Visitors can tour the restored lighthouse and learn about the keepers who safeguarded Lake Superior's busy shipping lanes. Its scenic location offers excellent views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
6. Baraga County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Baraga County Historical Museum features exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the lumbering and mining industries that shaped the area. Original artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays paint a vivid picture of Baraga's past. The museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
7. Mount Arvon
MICHIGAN'S HIGHEST POINT
Mount Arvon, standing at 1,979 feet, is the highest natural point in Michigan and is located just outside Baraga in L'Anse Township. An accessible forest road and a short trail lead to the summit, where visitors find a marker, logbook, and breathtaking forest and lake views. It's a bucket-list destination for hikers, sightseers, and geography buffs.
8. Canyon Falls Roadside Park
THE U.P.'S MINI GRAND CANYON
Canyon Falls Roadside Park is famous for its dramatic cascading waterfalls and rugged gorge, often dubbed the "Grand Canyon of the U.P.". The well-marked trail through forested terrain leads to the falls and offers stunning river views. This easy hike is perfect for families and those looking for a memorable outdoor adventure.
9. Bishop Baraga Shrine
IMPRESSIVE LAKEFRONT MONUMENT
The Bishop Baraga Shrine honors Frederic Baraga, the region's namesake and a beloved missionary, with a towering sculpture overlooking Keweenaw Bay. Visitors can walk the landscaped grounds, reflect at the monument, and learn about the bishop's legacy in the Upper Peninsula. The shrine provides peaceful views and a sense of local history.
10. Baraga Marina
GATEWAY TO LAKE SUPERIOR
Baraga Marina offers excellent access to Keweenaw Bay on Lake Superior, with facilities for boaters, anglers, and sightseers. The marina hosts a variety of boats and provides amenities for fishing, launching, and lakeside relaxation. It's a central point for water-based recreation in the heart of Baraga.
11. Shopping
LOCAL FINDS & SOUVENIRS
Shopping in Baraga brings together locally owned stores, gift shops, and artisan boutiques where travelers can find unique Upper Peninsula products. From handcrafted goods to regional foods, there's something to fit every visitor's taste. Friendly shop owners and welcoming storefronts make browsing a delightful experience in this small lakeside town.
12. Dining
REGIONAL EATS & FLAVORS
Dining in Baraga highlights the local flavors of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, from hearty comfort food to Lake Superior fish specialties. Restaurants and cafes offer friendly service and a cozy, small-town ambiance. Many establishments feature views of the bay, making every meal memorable for visitors.
13. Hiking
TRAILS THROUGH WILDERNESS
Hiking in Baraga reveals a network of scenic trails passing through dense forests, along rivers, and to breathtaking overlooks. Options range from short, family-friendly walks to challenging treks up local peaks or through wildlife-rich areas. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore and connect with the region's rugged beauty.
14. Fishing
PREMIUM ANGLER DESTINATIONS
Fishing in Baraga is renowned for its abundance and variety, thanks to access to Lake Superior's Keweenaw Bay and numerous inland lakes and streams. Anglers regularly catch lake trout, salmon, perch, and more in spectacular settings. Whether from shore, boat, or ice, the fishing experience is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping in Baraga offers a classic Upper Peninsula experience, with campgrounds along Lake Superior, in state parks, and in peaceful forested settings. Campers enjoy access to hiking, fishing, and campfire evenings under starry skies. The region's natural beauty and relaxed pace make it a favorite for families and adventurers alike.