Hunter's Point Park — Attraction in Grant Township

The unusual and atmospheric beauty of Hunter's Point Park intrigued me the moment I arrived. The beach is comprised of rust-colored pebbles which clunk and shift as you walk on them. (A number of rock hunters were out looking for Yooperlite rocks when I was there.) The thing is, I was in awe of the variety of rock compositions that were seemingly strewn across the beach in form of pebbles, boulders and outcroppings. Some were obviously volcanic in origin and others looked like a mash-up of cement and stones - possible carry over from the last ice age. The ones that really intrigued me had rust-colored veining in almost circular patterning.

Despite the rocky conditions, or perhaps, because of them, there is a variety of plant life. Lichen and small plants grow on some of the outcroppings. Raggedy-looking trees seem to hold what little surface soil there is in place with their tentacle-looking roots. There are a number of nature trails that you can take into the wooded area - trails that feature half embedded rocks and protruding roots. The sharp-eyed hiker will spot wild flowers and a mix of plants and trees along the way.

My first visit to this park was in the afternoon after some rain, while the dark clouds were slowly moving out. The moody sky only enhanced the initial feel of the location. When I returned the following day, the sun was out, and while the beach and all looked stunning, it had lost that dark, raw nature vibe from the day before.

Hunter's Point Park quickly became one of my favorite locations on my trip to the upper peninsula because of...

One of my favorite areas to hike / walk in the U.P.! Beautiful scenery amid endless nature. Super easy to access via two separate parking areas--marina or Hunter's Point parking lot.

I personally love the hike from the marina, complete with its walking bridges and gorgeous waterside views. The Hunter's Point parking lot is a great option if you want to skip the hike / walk and simply enjoy beautiful rocky beaches on Lake Superior.

The north shore trail (immediate access from the main Hunter's Point parking lot) is sure to delight with its open views of Lake Superior. The lake is especially exciting when windy, as the open water rushes to shore.

The south shore trail follows the protected bay side of Lake Superior, giving you continual views of Copper Harbor and the elevation of the Keweenaw. I love this route for its many swimmable locations for my dog!

A must visit location, whether you are interested in walking only a few steps or up to...

This is our second time visiting this park in the last seven years and it’s just as magical as we remembered. There are lots of little windy paths through the wooded area of the park (north and south beach trail). You can also walk along the lakeshore on the red stone beach. It’s hard to get lost and delightful to wander.

We were there in mid-May. There was minimal snow and not too much mud, but boots would be advised in spring. It was brisk but sunny, perfect for walking in the woods. We heard and saw some active birds (kinglets, gulls, robins) in the woods. It was a relaxing retreat and great way to look back at...