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A Beacon in the North

The Iconic Mariner North and Kauppi Family

When does a restaurant become more than simply a place to eat? Folks know that The Mariner North in Copper Harbor always has a hearty meal and a refreshing drink waiting for their post-adventure refuel, but did they know that the Kauppi family has been a critical champion of the trails systems and wellbeing of the Keweenaw? Don Kauppi weaves a story of a life (and business!) set on recreational excellence in the Keweenaw!

The Mariner North Restaurant

A Journey of a Lifetime

The Mariner North Restaurant in Copper Harbor, Michigan welcomes all with its northwoods charm and hearty meals. This restaurant is open year-round, providing much needed refreshment and sustenance to mountain bikers, birdwatchers, snowmobiliers, and scenic drive day-trippers alike. Their expansive menu is known for their epic artisan grilled cheeses and vegetarian fare, featuring diverse options like:

  • The Mariner: Shaved roast beef, banana peppers, melted Swiss, lettuce, tomato and mayo - with a name like that, you know it's the one. 
  • The Starboard: a gluten-free homemade grilled black bean and wild rice burger smothered with Southwestern flavors sure to satisfy!
  • The Smokestack: this artisan grilled cheese stacks double smoked Applewood bacon, smoked turkey, smoked Gouda into an unforgettable bite.

While many seek out this far north establishment as the end point to their epic Keweenaw adventures, not many know that the Kauppi's have been a crucial driving force behind the development of the snowmobiling program in the Keweenaw. Even beyond that, the spirit of the Mariner North is seen in their involvement and support of organizations like:

The Kauppi's know that the spirit of the Keweenaw lies in community forged over good food and drink, but also in the steadfast support of conservancy and responsible recreation. Take a page from their book, and explore the Keweenaw the Mariner North way:

Be A Good Steward

Recreating Responsibly in the Keweenaw

Love the Keweenaw, in all the different ways you play and explore the Keweenaw. To Love the Keweenaw means to respect and preserve the nature and history of these lands that we explore. By making concerted efforts to respect the trails, your fellow visitors, and the abundant wildlife found here, we can all ensure lifetimes of access and appreciation for these lands. For insights on how you can be a good steward, visit LoveTheKeweenaw.org.

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