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SCENIC DRIVES

No matter the mode of transportation, the Keweenaw Peninsula is filled with breathtaking scenery all year round. But there’s something freeing about hitting the road and experiencing the Copper Country by automobile. Vast bluebird skies and exhilarating views combine with gently winding roads along Lake Superior’s rugged shorelines.  Enjoy panoramic views of the Keweenaw atop Brockway Mountain Drive or flow through tree bough “tunnels” corridors during summer and fall for a secluded drive.   

WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC DRIVES IN THE UPPER PENINSULA?

 

Brockway Mountain Drive

Brockway Mountain Drive is consistently ranked as one of the top scenic drives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.  This 9.5 mile stretch off M-26 between Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor is the highest above sea-level drive between the Rockies and Alleghenies.  It offers visitors incredible views of Lake Superior, inland lakes, and is a prime site for Northern Lights viewing in the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Fall colors at Brockway Mountain
A view from Brockway Mountain by Rick Briggs

MORE SCENIC DRIVE RECOMMENDATIONS

 

THE COVERED DRIVE

The first road designated as a Scenic Heritage Route in Michigan was the 18-mile segment of US-41 from Delaware to Copper Harbor.  The trees, some as close as three feet from the pavement, form a complete canopy over most of the entire length of the Heritage Route.  A “must-see” on everyone’s fall color tour.

Tunnel of trees along US 41 near Copper Harbor
The Covered Drive is an 18-mile segment of US-41 where the colorful canopy creates a "tunnel of trees."

SAND DUNE DRIVE

The portion of Highway M-26 between Eagle River and Eagle Harbor is often referred to as the “Sand Dune Drive” because of the sand dunes in the Great Sand Bay and Cat Harbor area.  You won’t want to miss this scenic lakeshore drive that showcases the beauty of the Lake Superior shoreline color tour.

Sand Dune Drive
Make sure to check out the fantastic sand dunes in the Great Sand Bay and Cat Harbor area.

M-26

M-26 runs along the shores of Lake Superior on the north shore of the Keweenaw between Eagle River and Copper Harbor and encompasses parks, beaches, waterfalls, lighthouses, and miles of unsurpassed beauty.

Aerial of Eagle Harbor and Eagle Harbor Lighthouse
M-26 runs along the shores of Lake Superior with many scenic places to stop along the way.

COVERED ROAD

Located west of Houghton, off the Houghton Canal Road, the “Covered Road” is a scenic dirt road with a tunnel of trees that make it look like it was a scene taken straight out of a movie.  Especially beautiful in the fall, this off the beaten path drive will lead you to the ghost town of Redridge, the historic Redridge Dam and Lake Superior.

Car on road in fall.
Covered Road is a classic fall drive that cannot be missed.

SOUTH SHORE

This county road runs between the communities of Gay and Lac La Belle along the south shore of the Keweenaw Peninsula and offers sandy beaches, many roadside parks, and views of the Huron Mountains across Keweenaw Bay. You’ll be able to see the tip of the Keweenaw sticking out into Lake Superior and an amazing view of Bare Bluff which is spectacular in the fall.

Sandy Beta Grise in fall with mountain in background
Bete Grise Beach provides a colorful view of Bare Bluff during the fall season.
Fall Activities

THE ULTIMATE KEWEENAW FALL SCENIC DRIVE

  • 16 minute read

When you’re in the Keweenaw in the fall, a simple drive to the store can be a world-class fall color tour. But if you’re serious about seeing as much of the…