A National Geographic “Drive of a Lifetime”

As we all know, Michigan has unpredictable weather, which makes the waters of the Great Lakes some of the most unpredictable water in the world. They’re estimated to be the home of more than 6,000 shipwrecks, some from as early as the 1600s. Although unfortunate for those who had to abandon ship, these wrecks have been a growing attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was recognized by National Geographic for its 175-mile scenic route and more than 300 shipwrecks along Lake Superior between Marquette and Whitefish Point. So, grab your rig and take the “Drive of a Lifetime” across the beautiful northern coast of the Upper Peninsula. Since you’ll be driving your RV along a windy coast, make sure to read “Driving in Windy Weather” before taking off so that you safely make it to some of the most breathtaking sites you’ll ever see.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #1

The Marquette Maritime Museum is a popular destination to be found in Upper Peninsula. Since 1866, the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse has offered phenomenal views of Lake Superior, making it a stop you don’t want to miss. National Geographic recommends stopping at Thill’s Fish House, a fish store owned by a well-known commercial fisherman right on the shore of Lake Superior.

While you’re in Marquette, be sure to check out the Upper Peninsula’s Children Museum, Iron Ore Heritage Trail, and Sugar Loaf Mountain. Get on the water with a fishing tour or take a mine tour. Between a good variety of museums, trails, and parks, Marquette is surely where you want to begin your “Drive of a Lifetime.”

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #2

About 40 miles east of Marquette rests the small town of Munising where numerous ships have been swallowed by the Superior. Take a ride on a glass bottom boat and find yourself standing over the wrecks of the Bermuda, Herman Hettler, Scow, Steven Selvick, Smith Moore, Kiowa, Manhattan, and Groh. Not only will you get great views of the shipwrecks, you’ll also be able to see Grand Island, lighthouses, and more. A boat tour, whether shipwreck or scenic tour, should be at the top of your list in Munising.

Not only is Munising populated with shipwrecks, but it is also home to numerous waterfalls. Those include Munising Falls, Miners Falls, Wagner Falls, Tannery Falls, Alger Falls, Laughing Whitefish Falls, Spray Falls, and many more. Some require hiking, while others are a park and view. Don’t forget to check out all the cool scenery that the Picture Rocks has to offer – such as Chapel Rock and Beach and Miners Castle Rock.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #3

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the Upper Peninsula’s hottest destinations. With 15 miles of Pure Michigan coast, the national park has something for everyone – trails, beaches, boat tours, waterfalls, and more! You name it, Pictured Rocks has it. This is surely a stop you can’t and don’t want to miss.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #4

In Grand Marais, you’ll find a little bit of everything. Visit the last handmade fishing tug, The Shark, or stop by the Gitche Gumee Agate and History Museum. For beer lovers, grab a microbrew from Grand Marais’s raved Lake Superior Brewing Company. While you’re in Grand Marais, make sure to stop by the Judge C.R. Magney State Park and Grand Portage State Forest for great hiking and scenic views. There are also many art galleries and nature centers that should be added to your list of stops. Visit the Grand Marais website for additional options. To end your stop, visit the low-key shipwreck memorial just along the marina and beach to pay respects to the fishermen and boats claimed by Lake Superior.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #5

The infamous Two-Hearted River is a great stop to take a canoe or go on a fishing trip. Approximately 24 miles long, the Two-Hearted River has two hearts, or branches, and is home to some of the best trout fishing in the Upper Peninsula. Enjoy many scenic views, wildlife, and maybe a Bell’s Two-Hearted Ale at this stop. While at the river, make sure to find the mini-suspension bridge that leads to a sandy beach on Lake Superior.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #6

Two stops, one exciting day. The Tahquamenon Logging Museum is located just outside of Newberry and offers a unique experience to its guests. Explore the history of lumberjacks with a special breakfast, old photos, and original logging equipment. Then, head on over to Tahquamenon Falls State Park to see one of the largest waterfalls in the state. Make sure to visit both the upper and lower falls. After you’ve completed your day at Tahquamenon, you’ll have the bragging rights of having been to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River! If you have time to add to your adventure, consider exploring M-123 – the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway.

Drive of a Lifetime Stop #7

End (or start!) your day at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Light Station in Paradise. Visit one of Michigan’s most famous shipwrecks, the historic Edmund Fitzgerald, amongst other Lake Superior history claims. If you want a night away from the RV and a memorable experience, consider a night in one of the Coast Guard Lifeboat Station crew quarters. While you’re in Paradise, stop at the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory, Oswald’s Bear Ranch, and take a ride on the Toonerville Trolley. Be sure to check out the Annual Wild Blueberry Festival if you are in the Paradise area in late August.

Start at one end of the coast or the other. Michigan will not discriminate its beauty to those coming from the east or west. However, don’t miss out on being the first to see a sunrise in Michigan when you are in the east!

Want to see more shipwrecks? Head down to the coasts of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron in the Lower Peninsula for more shipwreck tours. If you’re feeling brave, there are five locations that are excellent for those who want to dive or snorkel shipwrecks.