25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Copper Harbor (MI)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Copper Harbor, MI?

Copper Harbor is a census-designated place (CDP) and an unincorporated community in Keweenaw County, Michigan, USA. In 2020, 136 people were living in the town.

Copper Harbor is famous for its rich copper mining history, which stretches back to the era of the ancient people, way back 7,000 years ago.

Despite being an isolated small community, Copper Harbor is a favorite destination so loved by many tourists. 

Copper Harbor is home to one of the unique single-track systems in the world. It is the access point for trips to the only National park in Michigan called Isle Royale.

The town features attractions concerning nature that are ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers.

This community was previously a centre of attraction for copper mining during the 1800s. However, as the shortage of mines grew, the community moved into catering to their environment, which serves as a popular tourist destination.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Copper Harbor, MI.

Things to Do in Copper Harbor, MI

1. Lake Superior

One of the fun things to do in Copper Harbor, MI, is fishing on Lake Superior. You will be able to see Lake Superior shining brightly.

Lake Superior is a massive water body amidst the Great Lakes. It is famous for being the world’s largest freshwater lake about its surface area.

As a result of its enormous size, this destination plays an essential part in shipping, agricultural purposes, and even the climate conditions in this area.

Lake Superior is also a huge tourist destination for travelers via the numerous parks, cities, and famous attractions besides its banks.

You can book a charter here to go fishing for games, such as trout, salmon, small and largemouth bass, walleye, pike, and other species in the Lake.

Address: Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

2. Brockway Mountain Drive

The Brockway Mountain Drive, considered a gorgeous drive in Michigan, provides exceptional views of the Kennesaw Peninsula and Lake Superior. It is one of the best places to visit in Copper Harbor, MI.

It is a significant site in this region, with a distance of 8.8 miles and an elevation of 1,320 feet above water level. While riding on the road, you will drive past some of the unique markers in this area.

The favorite is the peak of the mountain, known as the Brockway Mountain Lookout. Do not be in a hurry; take your time to explore the area, and enjoy the scintillating views.

The landscape here is constantly changing seasonally. In springtime, you might see migrating hawks in the sky. Summertime is ideal for viewing wildflowers, whereas fall is always enchanting and magical due to its changing foliage. Winter is beautiful, with white terrains and gray skies.

Address: Michigan, USA

3. Lake Fanny Hooe

Besides Lake Superior, another water body you will find when you are touring Brockway Mountain Drive is Lake Fanny Hooe.

It is located on the easternmost border of Copper Harbor and covers about 227 acres. Despite being a small water body, it is still an important place to see, especially if you seek an area with a less dense population.

Lake Fanny Hooe does not attract many people, except for residents and curious adventurers, due to little or no access points or a lack of development in the area.

And this reason is why Lake Fanny Hooe, over the years, has maintained its original condition. The area is peaceful, with beautiful scenes.

You can rent a canoe or kayak and explore these secluded areas to soak up the beautiful nature of these places.

Address: Grant Township, MI 49950, USA

4. Hunter’s Point Park

Hunter’s Point Park sits on the western edge of Copper Harbor, adjacent to the Copper Harbor Light. The Park is a 9.4-acre land that sticks out from the mainland, producing a lengthy shoreline on both sides with trails.

Visitors are always welcome to tour these tracks and view the numerous attractions in the park, like the peculiar rock formations, exceptional views of Lake Superior and Harbor, and pebble beaches.

Here is also a fantastic place for bird lovers as you can see several bird species that live here, including waterfowl and hawks.

Check out Plimpton Point or Agate Beach if you are a landscape photographer for incredible views.

Address: F4F5+WP, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

5. Montreal Falls

The Montreal Fall offers fascinating views of Lake Superior, Mount Bohemia, and Bear Bluff. A gorgeous fall with luxuriant trees.

It is an ideal sport for fishing activities in the Upper Falls, although the route is not visible enough to see. Visitors can readily access the fire ring and tent camping in the summertime. 

When you are at the peak of Montreal Falls, you will capture views of Lake Superior. This destination holds spectacular sights to behold and is worth visiting for anyone.

It also features several flat terrains having fire rings that tourists can use for camping, including a gorgeous beach for kayaking. Montreal Falls comprises two individual drops and narrow hiking trails that link the Lower Falls with the Upper Falls.

Address: Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

6. Copper Harbor Light

Among the best places to visit in Copper Harbor, MI, is the Copper Harbor Light. This gorgeous artificial structure guides vessels traveling past Lake Superior. 

The Copper Harbor Light has a history that stretches way back to 1847. It has earned a spot in the National Register of Historic Places

As a result of its status, it has been included in numerous preservation efforts. One of the many establishments considered was constructing a museum displaying the lighthouse’s history and Lake Superior’s maritime industry.

The perfect season to visit is summer; other seasons are too harsh for activities of pleasure. The views here are beautiful; it includes views of the shoreline and Lake Superior on bright and sunny days.

Address: 9879 Woodland Rd. (Grant Township), Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

7. US Highway 41

US Highway 4,2, also called US Route 41 or Route 41, is a significant route that stretches through the north and south of the country.

The US Highway is 2,008 miles long, stretching from Michigan to Florida. Copper Harbor is where you will find the northern terminus of this route, and visitors are always welcome to visit when they are around.

You can quickly stop at the Fort Wilkins Historic State Park following this road, as it holds plenty of endless opportunities for any traveler.

Address: Copper Harbor, Michigan, United States

8. Isle Royale National Park

The only National Park in Michigan is the Isle Royale National Park, located far-flung North in Lake Superior, relatively close to the Canadian border.

This large park consists of over 400 islands that occupy an entire area of about 206 square miles.

Visitors can access the park through the Isle Royale Queen IV, Copper Harbor’s ferry boat that is used as the means of transportation to this place.

Because there are no fixed populations on the islands, the Isle Royale Nationals Park has been untapped and without modern developments, despite having Copper mines a long time ago.

This destination is an essential habitat for animals such as timber wolves, red foxes, moose, and various large animals.

The Park also has a wide variety of plants flourishing in various garden habitats, from lakeside marshes to boreal forests. You can also engage in some of the park’s favorite activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and camping.

Address: Michigan, United States

Also, check out our list of things to do in Brighton, things to do in Royal Oak, and things to do in Sault Ste. Marie for a fun time in these cities of Michigan.

9. Manganese Falls

Catching captivating views of the Manganese Falls in Copper Harbor, MI. This attraction is a hidden gem in this part of the country.

Manganese Falls is a beautiful destination situated inside the forests close to Manganese Road. It is not visible from the overlooks around it due to the cascading water that finds its way into a deep, narrow gorge that is kept from being seen by rocks and trees.

Before you get to see the main waterfall, it will require a bit of searching and trekking to get to the lookouts.

Spring thaw is an ideal time to see these falls because the water volume at this time is much, and it flows into the frightening landscape.

Address: 9332 Manganese Rd, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

10. Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor

With a landmass of 1,200 acres, the Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor is part of the most expensive preserves to be found in this part of the Kennesaw Peninsula.

The Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor is located far-flung East and at the edge of the land.

As a result of its location and its seclusion from the busy areas, the Preserve has become the abode of many unique species, endangered or endemic. 

These plants grow in rough climate conditions and landscapes, with a considerable part of the coastline being open to bedrock with minimal soil.

Expect to see stunted trees, windproof bushes, lichens, and other unique living organisms in the middle of cracks or cliffs.

As you go deep into the forested areas, you will be able to find species of trees with great heights, which house animals such as snowshoe hares, black beans, and birds. 

Check out the Horseshoe Bay beach on the northern edges of this Mary Macdonald Preserve.

Address: High Rock Bay Rd, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

11. Delaware Mine

The adjacent town of Mohawk rests in Copper mines that once acted as a means of generating income for the people of this region.

The Delaware Copper Mine Tours provides visitors with tours to these discarded structures, letting you explore the history of these regions.

It is quite a great experience getting to view these entire shafts very close, with old structures revamped to their original look like they were in ancient times.

And if you have a phobia for confined or underground spaces, it will be better to have your tour on the surface and explore the iconic structures that surround the Copper mines.

Address: 7804 Delaware Rd, Mohawk, MI 49950, United States

12. Studio 41

If you are an art enthusiast, one of the top things to do in Copper Harbor, MI, is to visit Studio 41 to see the various displays of artistic works of local artists.

The Studio features copper jewelry, home decor, dinnerware, boxes, candlesticks, and vases. As a result of the excessive Copper mines available herewith, some have a history that stretches back to 5,000 BC.

Jeremy Whitmire manages the Studio. He adopted this technique in 2006 and has gained a great deal of knowledge via working as an apprentice for a Silversmith.

Whitmore’s wife, Colleen Whitmore, does paintings of animals, residents, and landscapes that highlight the scintillating beauty of the coastline of Lake Superior. 

Address: 240 4th, Mohawk, MI 49950, United States

13. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

During the 1840s, there was a massive success in Copper mining. Therefore the government had to put security and discipline into check within the shipping lines and new towns.

A military outpost was built known as Fort Wilkins to maintain peace amongst the miners and the Ojibwas Indians, who were the region’s initial settlers.

The fort curtailed numerous fights as the years went by before it was discarded in 1870. The Fort Wilkins Historic State Park was founded later to maintain and commemorate the main fort and the vital part it played at the time of the nation’s first mining rush.

The Park currently occupies a landmass of 700 acres, having rich verdant grounds, facilities, trails, and even renovation of old structures used by the soldiers.

You will find people wearing period costumes protecting the area, providing you with a fascinating experience when you are here. Some campgrounds and cabins house RVs and tents.

Address: 15223 US Hwy 41, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

14. Into the Woods Mini Golf and Gardens

This destination is an 18-hole mini golf course surrounded by a gorgeous garden environment. The miniature course is ideal and fun for the entire family. Its gardens feature a unique rental space to host special occasions like birthday parties, BBQs, and lots more.

You can come with your friends to challenge yourselves. The course is quite challenging but fun for every skill-level golf player. In addition, Into the Woods Mini Golf and Gardens have a beautiful outdoor lounge.

Address: 1028 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

15. Copper Harbor Trails

One of the fun things to do in Copper Harbor, MI, is mountain biking on Copper Harbor Trails. The Trails feature several roads that traverse the wilderness surrounding the town, exposing travelers to several hidden gems in this area.

These Trails stretch over 37 miles. The Copper Harbor Trails Club manages the entire place. Under the management of the Copper Harbor Trails Club, the trail has been awarded a Silver Level certification from the IMBA Ride Center.

It is an honorable award given to most trails facing difficulties but is picturesque to see, and Copper Harbor falls in that category.

Visitors can rent or bring a mountain bike and tour these roads. If you are an adventurer, visit and explore this area.

Address: Copper Harbor, Michigan, United States

Want more of Michigan? Check out our list of things to do in Kalamazoo, and things to do in Port Huron for a memorable vacation.

16. Keweenaw Rocket Range

As a result of how secluded and private Copper Harbor is, a part of the underdeveloped area was once used as a launch area for NASA’s rockets.

This destination is just at the adjacent end of many popular launch areas like Texas, Cape Canaveral, Houston, And Florida.

Nevertheless, this is necessary as the Kennesaw Peninsula is rarely inhabited and is just close to a massive water body which are two vital considerations for safe launches.

The launch area that is within the edge of Copper Harbor is the Keweenaw Rocket Range, situated on the farthest east border of the site.

The site is not easy to get to, as it is much more than a launch pad; it has remnants of machinery and landmarks showcasing its history. 

The very thing that interests visitors is the vistas to see here, as the place has a great height that provides excellent views of the charming Manitou Island. The ATV tour here is one of the best parts of what you get to experience here.

Address: Rocket Range Trail, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

17. Mariner North Resort

When you have yet to visit Mariner North Resort, you can’t be looking for what to do in Copper Harbor, MI. It is perched on the Keweenaw Peninsula.

It has a history that stretches back to the beginning of the 1920s when it was founded as an inn, bar, and restaurant called the Pontiac.

The structures still standing were constructed in 1995 after a fire destroyed the main building. The property provides guests with options for lodging, including two mini motels, where one of them provides guests with a honeymoon suite.

There are two-bedroom cabins with a completely fitted kitchen. There is an in-house restaurant available to visitors and locals, and they provide lunch and dinner options daily, ranging from pizzas and sandwiches to steak pizzas and the Lake Superior trout.

Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views of Lake Superior and its surrounding forested areas and quick access to the many outdoor activities.

Address: 255 Gratiot Street, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

18. Isle Royale Queen IV

Isle Royale Queen IV conveys tourists between Rock Harbor at the Isle Royale National Park and Copper Harbor, MI.

It is a family-owned and operated boat ferry that has a history stretching back to 1971 and has been working since then.

The boat was originally built in 1980 in Louisiana. It got to Michigan in 2005 after many years of service as a tour boat in New York Port.

Passengers can choose to unwind in the warm, comfortable seats or enjoy the scintillating views from the deck during this three-hour ride.

Address: 60 5th St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

19. Keweenaw Adventure Company

The Keweenaw Adventure Company is situated in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and offers outdoor tours and accommodations. So if you’re looking for what to do in Copper Harbor, MI, for intense fun, join the Company’s tours.

Sam Raymond has over twelve years of experience as a race official and has a great deal of experience in mountain biking. He co-founded the Company with Julie and Steve Brimm in 1994.

The business has experienced tremendous growth in its goals. It is a significant spot for various man-powered activities in the Keweenaw area.

You can also go kayaking in Lake Superior, go Mountain biking on your favorite trails that traverse the hills, or venture on a guided stroll with a nature interpreter. Accommodations are available for you, including cabins, cottages, and chalets.

Address: 155 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

20. Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

Another significant stop for you in Copper Harbor is the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary. This place draws myriads of tourists at peak season.

Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary occupies a land area of 508 acres. It features the most extensive collection of old-growth white pines, which makes it an essential eco-friendly spot.

The Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary is filled with numerous plants and animals, besides having thin topsoil and boreal climate. Check out the trails to view uncommon and beautiful wildflowers, other species of trees, and varieties of ferns on the forest grounds.

As a result of its luxuriant vegetation, this place is a hole to woodpeckers, hawks, and crossbills. You can bring your camera and binoculars to capture views of the area.

Address: Burma Rd, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

21. Brickside Brewery

Brickside Brewery was established in 2012 so that residents and visitors of Copper Harbor can enjoy great beer. It is the first mini brewhouse established in Keweenaw County over a century ago and the only one found in Copper Harbor. 

Its objective is to ensure this homemade beer reaches its customers with a mix of its environment’s beauty and vibrant nature.

Their exceptional beer is due to their popular Brewmaster named Jason. During winter, he bartends, puts together tables, decorates the bar, and produces logos and stickers. So if you’re a beer lover, one of the top things to do in Copper Harbor, MI, is to visit Brickside Brewery.

Address: 64 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

22. George Hite Dunes and Marshes Preserve

Since the beaches in Copper Harbor usually consist of exposed bedrock or pebbles, many guests might be searching for Historic dunes that are popular in the Great Lakes.

If you are in this category, check out the George Hite Dunes and Marshes Preserve, west of Copper Harbor. 

Despite not having a great height like the others in Lake Michigan, the dunes to find here have a similar windswept look that produces rough and unique terrains.

Some parts of the dunes are under the control of the Michigan Sand Dunes Protection and Management Program, which maintains special land features in this state. Ensure you follow their guidelines and stay within the stipulated trails during your tour.

Address: Sand Dunes Dr, Mohawk, MI 49950, United States

23. Steve Brimm EarthWorks Gallery

If you are an art lover, one of the best things to do in Copper Harbor, MI, is to check out the Steve Brimm Earth Works Gallery.

Steve’s photographs of the natural world and artworks produced by indigenous artists that are influenced by the natural aesthetics of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are displayed and sold at this gallery.

Steve Brimm had a great interest in showcasing to the world the incredible beauty of the lands in this region; he was a self-educated photographer and nature enthusiast. 

The photographs of Steve Brimm have been in publications such as coffee table books, Spirit of Place, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Venetian regional and national magazines and establishments. Also available are prints, mini and oversized-size frames, and postcards.

Address: 216 1st St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, USA

24. Laughing Loon

The Laughing Loon is situated at the edge of the gorgeous Keweenaw Peninsula. It is available for visits throughout the week and all year round. You can make purchases of their unique gift items, local artwork, and a broad selection of books and clothing.

There are many fine things to see here that will pique your interest. If you are a fan of reading great books, the Laughing Loon houses the Patchwords Books, a lovely book collection.

Address: US 41, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

25. Harbor Haus Restaurant

If you are searching for an ideal place to have a great dining experience with friends and family, one of the places to look out for in Copper Harbor is the Harbor Haus Restaurant. It is an excellent restaurant that provides its guests with delicious dinners and cocktails every day on the coast of Lake Superior. 

Each of its tables provides excellent views of Lake Superior. The food on its menu is produced using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish from the lake.

Their bar features a vast range of German beer and combines local berries with cocktails. It has an extensive wine list to see in this area.

Apart from the drinks and food that are served here, the restaurant is famous because of its wait staff that wears traditional South German and Austrian Costumes.

Address: 77 Brockway Ave, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

Michigan has some of the best cities in the United States to explore. Here is a list of  things to do in Tawas City, things to do in Benton Harbor, and things to do in Auburn Hills for a fun exploration

Plan Your Trip to Copper Harbor

Are you a nature enthusiast? Then, copper Harbor should be a must-visit as it is adorned with nature’s beauty. It is graced with beaches, old-growth forests, beautiful waterfalls, and picturesque mountains.

You are sure not to run out of ideas as there are numerous attractions and places to tour. A fantastic vacation awaits you in Copper Harbor, MI.