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Keweenaw's Explorer Blog

April 2026 | Industry Newsletter

The Keweenaw’s visitor economy plays a vital role in our region’s quality of life and future prosperity. To keep local leaders and stakeholders current on issues impacting the industry, Visit Keweenaw created this monthly newsletter to share information on topics such as economic trends, destination and community investments, and other pertinent news.

We hope you find this a valuable resource to stay up to date on the Keweenaw’s visitor economy and encourage you to share it with parties you think would benefit from the information. As always, we look forward to sharing what makes the Keweenaw a special community to both live in and visit.

Within this newsletter, you'll find: 

 

A Note From the Executive Director

Dear Keweenaw Partners and Friends,

As we look toward the 2026 summer season, there is a palpable sense of anticipation across the Keweenaw Peninsula. While we are all mindful of the current economic headwinds and the rising cost of living affecting households across the country, our region remains uniquely positioned to thrive.

History has shown that when travelers are looking for high-value, affordable vacation experiences, they look to the Keweenaw. With airfare reaching new heights, we are seeing a trend of consumers seeking out familiar, "drive-to" destinations that offer world-class outdoor recreation and authentic community experiences without the international price tag.

Early discussions with our community partners suggest a strong summer ahead. Our rugged terrain, breathtaking natural beauty, and inviting waters—from the Portage Canal to the shores of Isle Royale—continue to be a primary draw for those looking to disconnect and recharge. Whether it’s the excitement of the Canal Run in Hancock or the quiet majesty of our mountain biking trails, the Keweenaw lifestyle is exactly what modern travelers are craving.

🌿 Save the Date: Sustainable Tourism Summit

As we grow, we must do so mindfully. I am thrilled to announce that Visit Keweenaw will be hosting the Michigan Sustainable Tourism Summit. This event will bring us together to discuss how we can continue to promote responsible tourism that supports our local businesses while preserving the natural and cultural treasures that make our home so special.

We are incredibly grateful for your continued partnership in making the Keweenaw a premier destination. Together, we aren't just selling a vacation; we’re sharing a lifestyle that is a cornerstone of the Midwest.

Let’s make this summer one for the record books!

Warmly,

Brad Barnett 

Executive Director, Visit Keweenaw brad@visitkeweenaw.com | (906) 337-4579

 

Michigan Sustainable Tourism Conference Lands in Houghton May 20-23

The Michigan Sustainable Tourism Summit will take place May 20–23 in the Keweenaw, bringing together leaders, businesses, and community stakeholders focused on the future of tourism, sustainability, and destination development.

Thanks to the support of Northern ROOTS Collaborative, a limited number of complimentary registrations are available for local attendees. Those interested in attending are encouraged to contact Visit Keweenaw to reserve a spot.

Local organizations and businesses are also invited to participate by tabling at the event and engaging with attendees from across the region.

The Summit will feature a strong lineup of speakers and panelists with expertise across tourism, conservation, and community development. Leave No Trace is a summit partner, which will bring actionable insights to the the Summit.

Space is limited—please reach out to bbarnett@visitkeweenaw.com for more information or to get involved.

MSTS Banner

 

Visit Keweenaw 2025 Community Report Out

Visit Keweenaw is proud to share the Visit Keweenaw 2025 Community Report – a look at the work happening behind the scenes to support tourism, local businesses and the broader Keweenaw community. From major events and partnerships to day-to-day promotion and advocacy, this report highlights how Visit Keweenaw is actively showing up across the region – and where it’s headed next.

If you’ve ever wondered what Visit Keweenaw is working on (or how to plug in), this is the place to start. Check out the report and see how Visit Keweenaw is helping move the region forward.

 

2026/27 Visitor Guides In At Visit Keweenaw

Hot off the press—the new Visit Keweenaw 2026/27 Visitor Guide has arrived, and it’s our best one yet.

Inside, you’ll find featured local businesses, personal recommendations from our team, and vibrant imagery that captures what makes the Keweenaw hit different. It’s built to help visitors (and locals) explore a little deeper, stay a little longer, and find some new favorites along the way.

Visit Keweenaw is genuinely proud of this one, so come grab a copy and take a look.

2026/2027 Keweenaw Peninsula Visitors Guide

 

YOU’RE INVITED: Visit Keweenaw and Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Dual Membership Breakfast

Join Visit Keweenaw and the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce for a laid-back morning of connection, conversation and a hot breakfast made with love.

Visit Keweenaw and the Chamber are opening up the Keweenaw Welcome Center (418 Shelden Ave, STE B — right on Shelden in downtown Houghton) for a casual networking breakfast with both organizational members, local businesses and community partners.

See and respond to the Facebook event here.

What to expect:

  • A short presentation by Visit Keweenaw Managing Director Jesse Wiederhold
  • A hot, home-cooked breakfast + coffee + water
  • Easy, low-pressure networking with peers and partner organizations
  • A chance to connect, share ideas and kick off the day with good energy

When: 8–10 a.m. – Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Where: Keweenaw Welcome Center, 418 Shelden Ave STE B, Houghton

Stop in when you can, stay as long as you’d like. Come hungry and connect with your industry peers!

 

Copper Country Trail National Byway Competes Nationwide on USA Today

The Keweenaw’s Copper Country Trail National Byway is currently competing in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for Best Scenic Byway in the U.S., with voting open through May 4 at noon.

Spanning 47 miles along US-41 from the Portage Lake Lift Bridge to Copper Harbor, the Byway highlights the Keweenaw’s unique blend of historic mining heritage, preserved communities, and Lake Superior shoreline. As one of only two National Scenic Byways in Michigan—and the only one in the Upper Peninsula—it continues to serve as a key driver of regional tourism.

Visit Keweenaw encourages partners and supporters to vote daily and help elevate the Copper Country Trail to the top spot nationally.

 

Houghton-Douglass Falls Officially Open

The first phase of long-anticipated improvements at Houghton-Douglass Falls is now complete, marking an exciting milestone for both residents and visitors. This project focused on enhancing safety, accessibility, and the overall experience while preserving the natural beauty that makes the falls such a beloved destination.

With updated pathways, improved viewing areas and thoughtful environmental protections in place, Houghton-Douglass Falls is better equipped to hikers, sightseers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The completed work ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy this scenic landmark safely and sustainably. Visitors to the site will find a new parking lot and a vault toilet – much-needed amenities.

Community members and tourists are encouraged to visit, explore the upgrades and experience the falls in a whole new way.

Houghton Douglass Falls Spring

Houghton Douglass Falls flowing spectacularly this spring - April 2026.

 

Bird City Houghton - What’s That?

The City of Houghton has officially been designated a Bird City, becoming the first community in Northern Michigan—and the only one in the state—to achieve the program’s highest distinction: High Flyer status. To celebrate this, the committee is hosting “Spring – On The Wing” on Saturday, May 9, in Houghton with various educational activities and birding outings. See the full schedule here.

“What this recognition really shows is that Houghton has been doing the right things for a long time,” said Brad Barnett, Executive Director of Visit Keweenaw. “We’re located in one of the most important migration corridors in the Great Lakes, so the work happening here—protecting habitat, improving access to nature, and engaging the community—has an impact far beyond our region. Earning Bird City and High Flyer status reinforces that the Keweenaw isn’t just a great place to visit, it’s a place that takes stewardship seriously.”

Located along a critical Great Lakes migration corridor, the Keweenaw plays an important role in supporting bird populations and habitat conservation, with this recognition reflecting years of ongoing work across the region.

 

Waterfall Week Starts May 6

Visit Keweenaw’s new event, Waterfall Week, is May 6–9, 2026.

New this year: Keweenaw Waterfall Trail Digital Pass
Visitors check in at featured waterfalls, explore the region, and earn a “Waterfall Wanderer” patch.

For Lodging & Local Partners
This is your play:

  • Share the digital pass with guests
  • Run a Waterfall Week special or package
  • Tie into town events + the Waterfall Crawl
  • Get creative—this is a built-in reason for visitors to stay longer
  • Email jesse@visitkeweenaw.com if you have any waterfall related specials or products

Events + Activations are happening across Houghton & Hancock all week to keep people exploring (and spending) between waterfall stops.

Big water. Easy hook. Let’s use it.

Waterfall Week Promo

 

New Lodging Member Spotlight: Meet Vault Ventures

Visit Keweenaw is excited to welcome Vault Ventures – Western UP Vacation Rentals as a new member of Visit Keweenaw.

Led by Vern Harlock, Vault Ventures is all about creating basecamp-style stays that put visitors right in the middle of the action—from trailside apartments in South Range to lakefront getaways in Twin Lakes and cozy cabins in Chassell. Whether guests are here to ride the Bill Nichols Trail, chase waterfalls, fish, hunt or catch the northern lights, Vern’s properties are built for people who want to get out and experience the Keweenaw.

With a wide range of options—from budget-friendly studios to large group lodges—Vault Ventures is helping make the Keweenaw more accessible for every kind of traveler.

Give them a warm welcome and check them out for your next stay—or send guests their way.

 

Summer Openings - Let us Promote You!

As businesses come online for the summer season, Visit Keweenaw is ready to help amplify what you’re offering. If you’re opening your doors, launching tours, or rolling out seasonal hours, let us know—we’ll help share it with visitors actively planning their trips.

Have a summer special? A new experience? Something a little different this year? We want to see and hear about it.

We also encourage lodging partners to think creatively—consider collaborating with nearby restaurants, retailers, or fellow operators to build packages or cross-promote experiences that make it easier for visitors to say yes to the Keweenaw.

Reach out to info@visitkeweenaw.com to be featured in upcoming promotions and visitor communications or upload high-quality smartphone imagery here!

 

Visit Keweenaw Goes To Pure Michigan Tourism Conference

The Visit Keweenaw team, including Executive Director Brad Barnett, Managing Director Jesse Wiederhold, Content Manager Amanda Makela and Board Member Ben Larson, recently attended the 2026 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Traverse City.

The annual conference brings together tourism leaders from across the state for professional development, networking, and a look at what’s ahead for Michigan travel. Sessions this year focused on evolving tourism policy, changing visitor behavior, and the growing role of AI in how people plan trips.

As travelers increasingly rely on digital tools and AI to find information, the Visit Keweenaw team is focused on staying ahead—ensuring the Keweenaw remains a trusted, go-to source for accurate, inspiring travel content.

The team returned with fresh insights, new connections, and a continued commitment to promoting the Keweenaw as one of Michigan’s most unique destinations.

 

In The Headlines