HIAWATHA FOREST LAKES

Region: Pictured Rocks/Munising/Au Train

Between Munising, Manistique, and Rapid River is a low-lying area of over a hundred lakes and numerous streams. Most of it is part of the Hiawatha National Forest, but there are many private cottages and fishing resorts around the lakes. The 40-mile Bay de Noc-Grand Island Riding and Hiking Trail, alongside the Whitefish River, follows a canoe route that was one of the Upper Peninsula's most significant for Native Americans.
Hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, four-wheelers on some places in summer — the area appeals to all sorts of active recreation. It's a real Upper Peninsula hub for snowmobiles. "You can ride forever," one resort owner pointed out. Valley Spur's outstanding cross-country ski trails south of Munising aren't far away, either. The ungroomed McKeever Hills Ski Trails are in this area.

Many National Forest campgrounds and developed beaches, boat launches, and picnic areas are here beyond the ones described on this site. The Pictured Rocks/National Forest Visitor Center (906-387-3700) in Munising has maps and handouts for those facilities and for many hiking and cross-country ski trail systems. So do other Hiawatha National Forest offices, including the ones in nearby Rapid River and Munising.

Another attraction National Forest offices can provide details about is the BIG ISLAND LAKE WILDERNESS CANOEING AREA. There's no road access to these 23 small lakes, from 5 to 149 acres, which are linked by waterways or by marked portage trails. Motors are banned, though motor noise from nearby lakes in this developed cottage area can sometimes be heard. At Big Island canoeists can camp in designated spaces or choose their own sites. Abundant wildlife includes eagles and many loons. Canoe livery service is provided by Hiawatha Resort on Forest Highway 13, phone (906) 573-2933. Canoe and kayak rentals and multi-day trips can be arranged through Northland Outfitters in Germfask. Call (906) 586-6684. Complete outfitting (tent, gear, etc.) is available. Big Island is east of Forest Highway 13 and northwest of Steuben.

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