Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook — Attraction in Powell Township

My first trip to the UP living in Michigan for almost, at the time, 5 years. I made an unplanned, week long trip back in Sept 2020 and I just went where I felt was good. I’m not big on “tourist things” so I usually find times to travel in low tourist areas and less traveled months. Here I came upon Thomas Rock, and man did it not disappoint. Best time of the year to go is always during fall colors. You have a nice easy walk up and out to the large walkway, that looks to be fairly new. I went a little closer towards sunset with my sister and her boyfriend and probably stayed there for a good hour. It’s just beautiful, and we were the only ones there. If you’re driving through it sounds Ishpeming, take the beautiful drive up the hill, park your vehicle to walk towards, what I claim to be, a top 5 view in...

The first big plus here is, unlike Sugarloaf (closer to Marquette), it isn't backed to the road with visitors. At the CR 510 turn, there's an unassuming small sign for Thomas Rock. A 1 car two track driveway (with a pull off if you meet another driver) leads to a small dirt parking lot. There are numerous well kept trails cutting through the forest in a clean, managed way. There's still a heavy natural feel and it isn't artificial like some heavily "structured" nature spots. These routes are twisting and turning with hills, so it really feels more like a hike. The views from the peak are incredible and worth the entire stop. Depending how long you've been driving, there are single stall restrooms at the...

This little overlook is such a pleasant place to visit anytime we're out near Big Bay. The wall isn't long but there's plenty to see on the way up. The little information posts are cleverly set up and quite compact/concise. Best of all, you can get to the top without a ton of effort. Even a wheelchair could make it up without much issue. And the view is fantastic. The two lakes in front of you and that giant radio tower off to the right. It's a wonderful place to just sit and stare. It's gorgeous in the fall when the leaves change. And there's a nice little picnic area at the base in the parking lot. A beautiful drive and a...