Hike Lake of the Clouds in the Porcupine Mountains

Ontonagon, Michigan

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Details

Distance

1.4 miles

Elevation Gain

334 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Shalee Blackmer

No service, no light pollution, no worries. Escape to one of the most back-country wildernesses in the Midwest.

Hiking in the porcupine mountains could be a day trip or a week trip. From a short rim hike overlooking Lake of the Clouds to a three day back country camping excursion, there are endless amounts of options for planning a getaway to the Porcupine Mountains.

Located in the far northwest of Michigan, the Porcupine Mountains are the only designated mountain range in state. They sit on the edge of Lake Superior, and hundreds of miles from any major city.

The light pollution is extremely low, and if you're lucky you'll catch a glimpse of the northern lights. The most popular time to visit is in October, when fall colors are at their peak.

If you plan to make a trip here in the fall or spring, prepare for low temperatures at night. The weather in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is quite unpredictable. Sometimes there is snow as early as September and as late as May.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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