Unearth the secrets of the Keweenaw Peninsula with our guide to exploring the east coast from Hubbell, Lake Linden, Big Traverse Bay, and Gay. Far from the typical tourist spots, this off-the-beaten-path adventure reveals the unique charm and natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re drawn to serene lakeside parks, historic mining towns, or quaint ice cream shops, this journey offers a twist on the traditional visit to the Keweenaw.

Hubbell

 

Four children sitting on a rock next to waterfallThe Hungarian Falls and trails are perfect for beginning hikers and little legs. 

 

Begin your journey in the quaint town of Hubbell, where you can find the Hungarian Waterfalls. The hike is about 1.7-miles out-and-back. If you hike to all 3 waterfalls, you can expect a moderately challenging trail, but the views are worth it! Afterwards, head to the Tamarack Park and Ahmeek Stamp Mill ruins for a picnic or just a quick stop along the rich history embedded in the Keweenaw.

 

ice cream cone held in front of a little shoppeExploring waterfalls is hot work... head north of Hubbell to the Drive Thru Depot and cool down with a cone!

Lake Linden

 

a person crosses a street towards a historic brick buildingLindell's painted walls and street sign are iconic sights within Lake Linden, but the real treats (both for your eyes and your stomach) are held inside!

 

Lake Linden is a picturesque village on the east side of the Keweenaw Peninsula, offering a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. The Houghton County Historical Museum is a must-visit, providing fascinating insights into the region’s rich copper mining past. For a relaxing time outdoors, head to Lake Linden Park, where you can enjoy a sandy beach , playgrounds, and picnic areas by the serene waters of Torch Lake. The Drive-Thru Depot offers a nice stop for a quick meal or ice cream. You could also eat at the historic Lindell Chocolate Shoppe with the interior virtually untouched since 1918, ornately decorated with early wood and stained glass decor. This is a beloved breakfast spot for locals, but also a great spot for diner-style lunches. 

Dreamland

 

Dreamland restaurant & bar

Founded in 1913, Dreamland has been destination spot for food and drink owned by the Sarazin family for generations!

 

Along Bootjack Road, near Lake Linden, you can find a beloved local hangout: Dreamland Bar and Grill. The cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and charming rustic interior compliment the friendly service this family-friendly establishment brings. Swinging into this restaurant will provide you with an authentic taste of local hospitality and a memorable dining experience. Dreamland is well-known for their delicious whitefish dinners and Moscow mules!

 

For those who love Copper Country history, Dreamland has long ties to the area. In the early 1900s, the resort was founded by Norbert Sarazin and was frequently used by loggers trapped in Bootjack by winter weather. To this day, Dreamland is still owned and managed by the Sarazin family. This hotel and bar had an adjoining dance pavilion, surely a worthwhile stop for those early Copper Country folk heading to White City for a fun afternoon! Look for a sign outside with the names of the original pioneers who broke ground on today’s Dreamland Trails and behind the bar for a snippet of the building’s history.

 

a wooden sign

Even the local ATV/ORV trails are interlaced with local history!

White City & Jacobsville

 

an adult carries a child and hold the hand of a toddle as they walk along a pier towards a lighthouse

The Keweenaw Lower Entry Light is a beautiful sight from the pier, beach, or the water.

 

After a stop in Bootjack, head out to Jacobsville and White City Beach. While both of these are far off the beaten path, your trek to Dreamland has you within close proximity to these hidden gems. What started as a fishing village in 1887, Jacobsville eventually turned into the site of the sandstone quarry that gave life to the unique red buildings scattered throughout the Copper Country and the eastern United States. While not much more than a ghost town by today's standards, the Jacobsville Community Heritage Center offers glimpses into the town’s past.

 

sunglasses sit on a towel on a sandy beach

Shallow waters alongside White City Beach make for a easy spot to anchor and enjoy the warm sands.

 

Nearby White City was a premiere summer resort with a hotel-restaurant-saloon, amusement park, rental cottages, dance pavilion, bandstand, and 75 foot steamer dock in the early 1900’s. The White City Beach is a beloved beach great for soaking in the sun and waves during in the summer with its expansive sand bar. Some like to walk along the Lower Entry Lighthouse pier to see the crystal blue waters and picturesque views of Keweenaw Bay. The Portage River Lighthouse at White City is now privately owned and in active restoration, therefore not currently open to the public except on designated days. You can view the lighthouse at any time from the designated gravel area or from the water. Always remember to be mindful of the nearby property owners and integrity of the natural landscape, and only park within the designated parking area. Pick up after your beach day, and be sure to Leave No Trace so that White City's long history of waterside enjoyment may continue!

Grand Traverse Bay

 

clear waters meet an arcing beach dotted with pines

 

Whether you call it Grand Traverse Bay or Big Traverse Bay, this little spot is a serene haven for nature lovers. The pristine beach at Schoolcraft Township Park, nearby campground or lodgings offer the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. If you plan ahead to spend a full day at Grand Traverse, you can take home a unique souvenir by booking a class at Stained Glass by Laura. The sweetness of fruit in the Keweenaw is unmatched, and this area near Rice Lake is known for its prolific blueberry growth. If it is berry picking season, bring the kids and head over to Pancho’s for wild blueberry picking!

Gay

 

Nestled along the eastern shores, the quaint town of Gay offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and local charm. The town was named after Joseph E. Gay, a prominent figure in the mining industry, and it served as a hub for the Mohawk Mining Company. You can still walk through what remains of its industrial past at the famous Gay Stamp Mill. This towering structure, surrounded by vast stretches of black stamp sands, stands as a testament to the town’s heritage. The iconic Gay Bar, established in the early 20th century, is a beloved local stop known for its quirky atmosphere and friendly staff. Be sure to walk around the historic schoolhouse and museum. Afterwards, the Tobacco River park offers expansive views of the bay and the river falls are viewable right from the bridge.

 

a wooden sign reads Tobacco River with the river's mouth in the background

The Tobacco River allows to you to explore an underrated view of Keweenaw Bay on your adventure though Gay.

Exploring the eastern side of the Keweenaw Peninsula offers an unparalleled journey through hidden gems and lesser-known treasures. From the historical insights of Hubbell and Lake Linden to the serene beaches of Traverse Bay and the unique landscapes of Gay and Jacobsville, each stop along this route provides a blend of history, natural beauty, and local charm that promises a memorable and enriching experience. By stepping away from the well-trodden trails, you’ll discover the true essence of the Keweenaw Peninsula - a place where every corner holds a story and every glimpse offers a moment of peacefulness.

We love the Keweenaw. You love the Keweenaw. Let's keep the Keweenaw a magical place by embracing responsible recreation practices. Let us show you how!