Fall is a beautiful time to experience Sault Ste. Marie and Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula. As the temperatures cool and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, the region transforms into a colorful autumn destination. From scenic drives along Lake Superior and peaceful hikes through the forest to breathtaking overlooks and nearby waterfalls, there are endless ways to enjoy the season. Whether you’re planning a fall color tour, exploring local attractions, or simply soaking in the scenery, Sault Ste. Marie is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Upper Peninsula fall adventure. Start planning your fall getaway today! Explore our favorite scenic routes, discover must-see stops, and find the perfect places to stay, dine, and explore as you experience the beauty of fall in the Soo.

Take the scenic route through Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula along the Curley Lewis Highway, also known as Lakeshore Drive. Winding along the shores of Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay, this beautiful stretch of road offers breathtaking views, towering trees, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

View a map of the highway here.

Mission Hill Overlook, located near Brimley, Michigan, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Superior, the surrounding forests, and the scenic landscape of the Eastern Upper Peninsula. The overlook sits high above Monocle Lake and Spectacle Lake, making it a beautiful destination for sightseeing and photography. It’s especially popular during the fall, when the surrounding trees transform into a colorful display of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Located along the shores of Lake Superior near Brimley, Point Iroquois Lighthouse is a beautiful destination filled with history and scenic views. First established in 1855, the lighthouse helped guide ships traveling between Lake Superior and the St. Marys River. Today, visitors can explore the historic grounds, enjoy the rocky shoreline, and take in stunning views of the lake. With its picturesque setting and rich maritime history, Point Iroquois Lighthouse is a must-see stop when exploring the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Located along the shores of Lake Superior just west of Brimley, Big Pine Picnic Area is a peaceful stop tucked within the Hiawatha National Forest. Known for its towering pine trees and beautiful sandy shoreline, this scenic spot is perfect for a relaxing picnic, beachcombing, or searching for colorful Lake Superior rocks. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables and grills before heading down to the beach to take in stunning lake views and watch for passing freighters.

Home to some of Michigan’s most breathtaking natural scenery, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a must-visit destination in the Eastern Upper Peninsula. The park is best known for its impressive Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, and the beautiful Lower Falls, where water cascades around a series of small islands. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy peaceful forest views, and experience the beauty of the Tahquamenon River throughout the seasons. While the park is stunning year-round, fall is an especially beautiful time to visit as vibrant autumn colors surround the waterfalls and forest trails.

Make Sault Ste. Marie Your Fall Getaway

With so much to see and do throughout the Eastern Upper Peninsula, one day might not be enough.

Make Sault Ste. Marie your home base and spend your days exploring colorful forests, scenic lakeshores, and beautiful waterfalls before returning to town for local dining, shopping, and a comfortable place to stay.

Fall doesn’t last forever in the UP, so get out there and enjoy it while you can!

Current Fall Color Update

November 3rd, 2026
9: Fall Color Scale

Fall Color Season is Wrapping Up! 🍂

Fall color is now past peak throughout Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area. Most leaves have fallen, though you can still catch pockets of yellow here and there and the occasional red maple holding on.

While the fall color show may be coming to an end, there’s still plenty to see and do in the Soo! We’ve been enjoying beautiful late-fall weather, making it a great time to visit Soo Locks Park, watch for freighters along the St. Marys River, explore around town and enjoy the quieter side of the season.

Thanks for following along with our fall color updates this year!

Fall Color Tracker

🌳 No Color

🍃 First Hints of Color

🍂 Some Color

🍁 Color Increasing

🍁 Near Peak 

🍁 Peak Fall Color 

🍂 Just Past Peak ← YOU ARE HERE

🍂 Past Peak

🌳 Color Ending
Fall Rotary Park Kayaking

Sault Ste. Marie is the perfect starting point for exploring the Eastern Upper Peninsula’s spectacular fall colors. From winding roads along Lake Superior to scenic overlooks, historic lighthouses, and breathtaking waterfalls, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the season!

With all the fantastic fall driving you’ll be doing, make sure to find a comfy place to stay; book your fall accommodations in the Soo!