Located at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor is Michigan’s northernmost community where adventures abound three hundred and sixty-five days a year! Declared the furthest town from a U.S Interstate . Highway – about 5 hours away – Copper Harbor is a most quintessential small town. Yet, what it lacks in population (less than 100 year-round residents and about 300 during the non-snow months), it makes up for in its rugged landscape, rich history and genuine Upper Peninsula hospitality.
Situated within a natural harbor on the shore of the world’s largest freshwater sea, Lake Superior, and in the shadow of Brockway Mountain, Copper Harbor’s postcard-like setting is a Pure Michigan as it gets. Composed of some of the oldest exposed rock in the world outside of the Grand Canyon, the area’s Geoheritage & Geology is closely tied to its early human pursuit of the red metal (copper) throughout the ages and leading up to its current day identification as a year round, outdoor adventure destination.
With the village of Copper Harbor only ten-blocks long by three-blocks wide, it’s easy to park your vehicle and access anywhere in town within a matter of minutes. A casual walk along Brockway Avenue will pass several points of public access to the Harbor, including the Third Street Memorial Park and the Sixth Street Boardwalk. While the “main-drag”, Gratiot Street (M-26 & US41) features an array of shops, restaurants, a micro-brewery, the general store and access to trailheads. The middle “Bernard” Street is the least traveled of the three and is designated as a pedestrian and bicycle route as part of the greater Hunter’s Point Pathway. While a few expectations, the majority of Copper Harbor’s lodging options are found within this village plat.
Copper Harbor is anchored by Fort Wilkins State Park to the east and Hunter’s Point Township Park to the west. Each is located about a mile outside of town, linked by crushed gravel trails that provide an easy hike to and from the village.
Outdoor adventure in Copper Harbor abounds for recreational pursuits of any type, anytime of the year. Opportunities for day Hiking & Walking within the area’s numerous Parks and Preserves or along the Copper Harbor human-powered (non-motorized) trail system are easy to access, while multi-day, backpacking trails are one of the most recognized activities on Isle Royale that can be accessed via passenger ferry service on board the Isle Royale Queen IV.
Mountain bikers will revel on Copper Harbor’s IMBA “Silver Level Ride Center” – ranked among some of the top trail systems in the world. Part of a multi-county ATV trail system, Keweenaw ORV Riding rivals some of the best anywhere Up North. A variety of Bird Watching is easily accessible along the Lake Superior shore and forested woodland trails. The annual spring raptor migration on Brockway Mountain is one of the Midwest’s premier locations for viewing hawks, eagles and falcons of all types.
If water is more your thing, the Copper Harbor State Marina is the epicenter for Boating, whether for launching from its boat ramp or needing a slip to dock along the way of a greater journey. Sea Kayaking & Canoeing on the Keweenaw Water Trail is great for experienced paddlers, while those novice and less experienced may want to consider a professionally guided tour with the Keweenaw Adventure Company.
Fishing & Ice Fishing within Copper Harbor, on the Big Lake or on one of a number of inland lakes host a variety of species to pursue by casting or by trolling. Golf, Fling Golf, Disc Golf and Mini Golf – we’ve got that covered, too.
With 270” of average annual snowfall, Copper Harbor is a Winter Wonderland. With convenient access to the trails, Copper Harbor is a premier outdoor adventure destination for Midwest Snowmobiling. Skiers & Snowboarders will delight in nearby Mount Bohemia’s 900’ vertical drop and true back-diamond terrain for a Western-like ski and riding experience. Self-propelled enthusiasts enjoy a network of multi-use XC Skiing & Fatbiking trails, while Snowshoeing is a popular option to explore the un-groomed backcountry trails near town.
Copper Harbor is a popular destination for “destination” Weddings & Celebrations and has several facilities to accommodate small or large groups. Take in one of our Events & Live Music performances outdoors or inside throughout the year. Closely intertwined, Our Neighbors are communities rich in history and access to the great outdoors.
With less than 100 year round residents (about 300 during the non-snow months), Copper Harbor’s Lodging, Food and Drink establishments, Galleries and Shops, Services, Rentals, Wellness providers and Campgrounds (with the exception of Fort Wilkins State Park) are all Mom and Pop owned and operated, while the tiny village lends itself to an earlier time of a slower pace, friendly folks and a genuine Upper Peninsula hospitality.
Natural Wonders, Historic Locations and Scenic Drives amidst some of the purest fresh air on earth lead to countless avenues of discovery, exploration and education. Lake Superior & Beaches are a Rock Hounding paradise and are dotted between Lighthouses & Shipwrecks that lend awe, wonder and perspective to this greatest of the Great Lakes – from the calm and placid to its infamous, howling gales. While this Upper Michigan Someplace Special location is off the beaten path, we think you’ll agree “It’s worth the trip!”