1. Magnificent, rushing waterfalls – The Porcupine Mountains are home to hundreds of waterfalls.

2. Hundreds of miles of trails – Hike, bike and go birdwatching along the trails of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and the Ottawa National Forest.

 3. Fantastic fishing – Fish Lake Superior and area rivers and lakes for lake trout, walleye, whitefish and salmon.

4. Beautiful beaches – Go beach combing along 21 miles of beaches for driftwood, agates and rocks of every shape and size.

 5. Endless beauty – The Porcupine Mountains are one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the Midwest.

Right now is the perfect time to head up to the Upper Peninsula and experience why the Porcupine Mountains are such an incredible tourism destination.

Bonanza Falls (Photo by Tim Feathers)

As winter’s ice sculpture waterfalls melt away, we’re graced with the angelic sight of springtime waterfalls. With hundreds of waterfalls in the Porcupine Mountains and surrounding area, it’s hard to miss these natural wonders. We’ve highlighted our favorite waterfalls that are must-sees this spring.

Bonanza Falls: Nestled in a dazzling forest, the Iron River glides over smooth slanted rocks to form this waterfall. Located on the Big Iron River near Silver City. Drive .9 miles south of M-107 to M-64 South. (map)

Presque Isle River waterfalls: The Presque Isle River cascades through the Porcupine Mountains State Park and over unique rocks formations, creating a series of waterfalls including Nawadaha, Manido and Manabezho. Located at the westernmost edge of the Porcupine Mountains State Park along HWY 159. (map)

Bond Falls: Head an hour south of the Porcupine Mountains to witness this gorgeous 50-foot waterfall. Located on the middle branch of the Ontonagon River in Bond Falls State Park. Take US-45 south from Bruce Crossing to Paulding. (map)

Agate Falls: An 80-foot wide river flows gracefully over a series of shelves 80-feet high. Located on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River in Ontonagon County. (map)

• Birdwatching. Witness the Porcupine Mountains’ variety of rare woodland bird species and waterfowl living in the area’s old-growth forests. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is home to more than 388 bird species, which almost guarantees you’ll discover a species you’ve never seen before.
• Hiking. With more than 87 miles of recreational trails, you could probably spend all spring hiking the Porcupine Mountains and still have trails to see.
• Lake of the Clouds. Springtime means fresh forest growth, making it the perfect time to view the contrast of rich green trees against the luxurious blue Lake of the Clouds.
• Mountain Biking. Twenty-one miles of rugged terrain provide an exciting challenge to biking enthusiasts. Experience breathtaking scenery and plentiful wildlife by riding the area’s scenic trails.
• Waterfalls. As the icy waterfalls melt away, admire the Porcupine Mountains’ most beloved springtime sights.

• Be inconspicuous – Wear muted colors that blend in with your forest surroundings. Try to make as little noise as possible and move slowly.
• Be out around sunrise and sunset – Animals are most active at dawn and dusk as they move between their feeding areas and sleeping areas.
• Be patient – When you feel like you’re in a good place for seeing wildlife, be still and wait. And, when an animal is approaching, remain still.
• Bring binoculars – A pair of binoculars can mean the difference between an okay day of wildlife viewing and a wildlife extravaganza. A slow scanning of your forest surroundings will reveal an abundance of creatures, big and small.

Year-round, the Porcupine Mountains are full of wildlife. Get out there and enjoy the bounty.

Cross-country skiers can explore 87 miles of trails that wind through the area’s old-growth forest, spending a day (or just an afternoon) experiencing the serenity of the Porcupine Mountains. And there are unique, skiing opportunities available, too, such as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ lantern-light skiing events.

If you’re in the mood for some faster-paced skiing, try the ski hill at the Porcupine Mountains, which offers 19 runs for skiers of all skill levels. The ski hill is open Friday through Monday during the ski season. Check the latest conditions and a live webcam from the ski hill here.

The trails are in great condition, the pines are covered in snow and beautiful weather is in the forecast: right now is the right time to be cross-country skiing in the Porcupine Mountains.

With 26 designated cross-country ski trails weaving their way through the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, it’s the perfect place to start your winter adventure. The trails run through some of the park’s most beautiful areas and offer a variety of terrain. See a full list of trails.

Beyond the state park, the Ottawa National Forest offers many more miles of cross-country ski trails. It’s more than most skiers could cover in just one winter.

Don’t let this winter pass you by. Plan your trip now!

Call for reservations and pricing.

(Example: Two adults with two full day lift tickets, ski rental and one night room accommodations for two could be as low as $150.00)

For more information about the ski hill, dates, times and live webcam visit www.porkiesfun.com.