Coastal Views, Good Eats & Hot Saunas,
What More Could You Ask For?
By Jay Have, Upper Michigan Trailblazer
The crack of spring bears freshly budding blooms, storming waterfalls and the smell of snowmelt rejuvenating the flora and fauna of Michigan’s Copper Island. As locals would say, there’s no more “snow in da bush” (the woods) after a 300+ inch winter and that’s something to be excited about! The Keweenaw Peninsula – the northernmost point in Michigan – is a haven for year round outdoor exploration and the ORV scene is thriving. The region features 160+ miles of groomed wilderness trails connecting two counties worth of Hallmark Movie towns. Nothing compares to the raw, natural environment and authentic locals of the Keweenaw. If you’re itching to fire up your ORV, you need to plan an epic early-summer adventure for the whole family on Lake Superior.
Land, Air and Water: Ride Scenic Trail Bd
The Keweenaw is four hours north of Green Bay and about eight to nine from Detroit. This Michigan trails mecca can’t help but show its scenery and copper mining past everywhere you look. Pinpoint your start from Houghton or Hancock to ride scenic Trail BD to Dollar Bay and Lake Linden for an immediate glimpse of the Keweenaw’s origins. Starting at the iconic Portage Lake Lift Bridge, you’ll go northeast on BD past the Quincy Smelter. This iconic structure is one of the last of its kind in the world showcasing the Cornish mining influence. During summer, it opens for tours that share an inside look at copper’s final refinement before being exported across the Great Lakes from the Quincy Mine up the hill.
BD’s curved, winding coast hugs the Portage Canal. As you get closer to Lake Linden, Torch Lake comes into view on your right. It’s all Lake Superior waters, the largest freshwater lake in the world (by surface). Keep an eye out for the old Quincy Stamp Mill off to the right on BD. It’s a great photo op – but don’t trespass any private property signs. Quincy’s in Dollar Bay is the first trailside eatery along BD heading north and is a local gem. If you get into Lake Linden – the Loading Zone II is another hotspot for the ORV crowd and has great lunch and drink specials most days. The towns are open to ORVs for trailside stops and filling up your fuel tank.
Are you planning to start your ride from Houghton or Hancock yet? Pro Tip: ORVs are allowed to cross the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, but only with a police escort. The good news? Escorts are regularly scheduled, and if you’re riding outside those times, you can always call the non-emergency line on either side of the bridge for assistance. Easy peasy — and it’s one heck of a cool way to kick off or finish a trail day.
From Lake Linden & Calumet North: Choose Your Next Adventure!
Once you hit the gorgeous community of Lake Linden, it’s time to start thinking about your next steps. You’ll need to go through Calumet to go North – but you may want to take a pit stop along the way. Calumet has major history and is the headquarters for the Keweenaw National Historical Park. Calumet’s downtown is ORV friendly so don’t be scared to book a guided downtown park ranger tour on your itinerary. The Calumet and Hecla Mining Company was king in the late 1800s, when it produced half of the nation’s copper. Many of the buildings and streets still tell the story of a time when copper mining was the region’s economic engine.
Stop for lunch at the U.P. Pub (some locals say it has the best burger around) or grab a hearty, home cooked meal (with love) from Jen’s Kitchen. Pro-tip: try the Italian sub and add crunchy jalapenos and mayo. Once you pass Calumet, go north on Trail B to work your way up the Keweenaw’s rugged side. It can take six or more hours with minimal stops to go north and back from Houghton – so plan accordingly for a whole day of riding!
The Cliff Range and Phoenix, Michigan
Around Phoenix and Cliff – don’t forget to fuel up at the General Store, built in 1873. Just down the trail from the General Store is the Cliff View Bar. Anyone who rides in the Keweenaw will hear about Cliff View. It’s been a community staple for years and the parking lot is never empty. Cozy up inside and gaze at the Cliff Range, once home to one of the Keweenaw’s earliest mining communities. Sip on some of the Keweenaw’s best cocktails with a revamped food and drink menu. Don’t worry – the classic foot-long hot dogs are still on the menu and have tasty new topping options. Sit back and rest your eyes on the gorgeous rolling hills of the Keweenaw. Avoid drinking and driving, bring a designated driver!
Two Trails to Avoid!
“Sept. 8-11 the High Rock Trail will be closed to all traffic. The ATV Club is having a large culvert installed at Union Creek,” said Daryl St. John, Keweenaw ATV Club President. “There will be work on the trail before and after those dates so users must be careful around the heavy equipment. The trail from Vansville to Thayers Lake (Gay) will be closed for logging.”
Riders should stay off the Freda Trail this summer too until repairs can be made.
End Your Ride at the Tip: Copper Harbor and More
If you make it all the way to Copper Harbor, reward yourself. The Mariner North is a must-stop for both food and rest. The hearty menu has options for everyone—from loaded burgers to Lake Superior whitefish—and the cozy lodge-style rooms are perfect for a trail-weary crew. It’s one of the best stays in the Keweenaw if you’re looking to spend a night at the tip of the peninsula with easy access to ORV routes, gift shops, and even Lake Superior sunsets.
On your way back down the trail, take a breather in Hancock and check in at the Ramada—a reliable basecamp with trail access right outside. For a true Keweenaw experience, wind down in a traditional Finnish sauna at Takka Portage, located right along the trail next to the hotel. You’ll soak in the history and the heat, just like the locals have done for generations. As you approach you’ll smell the lovely scent of the wood-fired stoves.
For those who want to stay right in Houghton, the Quality Inn & Suites is another rider-friendly hub with clean rooms and a hearty breakfast to kick off another day on the trails. These two spots have plenty of room for your trailer, and your friends!
Stars and Waterfalls
One of the best things about ORVing in the Keweenaw? The days are packed with adventure—but the nights are just as special. Whether you’re staying in Copper Harbor, Hancock, or anywhere in between, step outside after dark and look up. You’ll find some of the clearest night skies in the Midwest—perfect for stargazing or even catching the northern lights. If you need a nudge to stay up late, download an app like My Aurora Forecast for alerts when it’s time to go out and look!
And don’t miss some of the Keweenaw’s easily accessible waterfalls while you’re riding. Eagle River Falls is a favorite just off M-26, and Haven Falls in Lac La Belle is a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and snap a few photos.
Trailheads, Tips, and Your Next Best ORV Vacation
Before your ride, don’t forget to check trailhead locations, parking info, and real-time ORV updates at www.visitkeweenaw.com. It’s a locally managed site packed with accurate, up-to-date info on trails, conditions, local businesses, events, and more. You can download maps from the DNR online or pick them up from gas stations and businesses in the Keweenaw.
Whether you’re out chasing waterfalls, grilling trailside, or navigating the curves of Trail BD with your crew, the Keweenaw has an unforgettable ride waiting. Respect the land, wave at the locals, and start planning your next trail day up north. •