The Porcupine Mountains are located in the western UP
of Michigan on the southern shore of Lake Superior. The main visitor center is about 15
miles west of Ontonagon. Drive time: 8 hours from Chicago, 5.5
from Madison, 6 from Minneapolis. Map UP Map
Description:
The Porkies offer 90 miles of foot trails and 16 rustic trailside
cabins. Only 3 Adirondack shelters are available. There are numerous trailside campgrounds with bear
poles. The trails are well-marked and somewhat rugged, but there is nothing too difficult. There are some
good views of Lake Superior and surrounding lakes. The ridge trails are the most scenic to hike. The highest
peaks are around 1800 feet, about a 1000 foot climb from Lake Superior. Mirror Lake is a great place to camp. The whole park
is very isolated and remote. Thunderstorms brew up fast over the lake and like to drench campsites
at night. Downhill skiing is available in the winter.
Warning: watch out for the bears, they will climb trees to rip up food packs, I have experienced it!
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: A Backcountry Guide for Hikers, Campers, Backpackers, and Skiers
by Jim DuFresne
published by Thunder Bay Press, 1999 Amazon.com
Mirror Lake
Stormy Superior
Sunny Superior
Big Carp River Trail
Government Peak
Sunset