Behold remote and rugged scenery, the largest ski jump in the Northern Hemisphere, five scenic waterfalls, Lake Superior beaches, and camping.
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers a variety of rugged and remote scenic drives through the harbor cities along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. The most famous and fulfilling of them all is the Black River Scenic Byway, which is distinguished as a National Scenic Byway in the beautiful state of Michigan. This breathtaking drive begins on County Road 513 near the town of Bessemer at its intersection with County Road 204 (Airport Road) and continues north for 12 miles following the Black River through dense areas of hemlock, hardwood trees and pine to Black River Harbor. Black River Harbor Road will take you past quite a few Points of Interest along the way. During the winter months, stop off at Big Powderhorn Mountain Village for some amazing skiing, or entice your daredevil side with the largest ski jump in the Northern Hemisphere at Copper Peak. The beauty of the North Country Hiking Trail will overwhelm warmer weather adventurers. The place includes a series of five scenic waterfalls and vistas that provide a unique opportunity to view the falls and the river as they plummet to join Lake Superior. Horse lovers can visit the Royal Palm Ranch equestrian school and eventually you can make your way up to the Black River Harbor, a distinct harbor with beautiful stretches of Lake Superior beaches, a modern campground facility, and a wooden suspension bridge that will satisfy even the most domesticated family.
Starting Point:
Bessemer, MI
Distance of Drive:
12 miles
Must Eat:
Kinda Kountry Kafe
1002 East Lead St., Bessemer, MI 49911
Phone: 906-667-0725
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Any season is good for this drive, but winter driving conditions can be challenging. Summer and winter are the busiest seasons.
Points of Interest on Drive:
North Country Hiking Trail
Black River Harbor and Lake Superior
Big Powderhorn Mountain Village
Copper Peak
(All are within the Ottawa National Forest)
Tagged with: Michigan • ski • waterfalls
Filed under: Best Road Trips