Now that summer is in full swing, it is the perfect time to escape to the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to take ‘like-worthy’ Instagram photos or venture off the beaten path to explore, the Sault Ste. Marie area has you covered. Located near many national and state forests, the Soo is the destination for your next adventure off the beaten path. On your next Sault Ste. Marie trip check out these forests, parks, and campsites near the Soo.
The Hiawatha National Forest sprawls across the Eastern Upper Peninsula with nearly 900,000 acres. The East Unit of the forest covers much of Chippewa and Mackinac County and touches three of the Great Lakes.
One of the many highlights of the East Unit is the Point Iroquois Lighthouse, which is located just 30 short minutes west of Sault Ste. Marie. This is a must-see location if you haven’t visited the Eastern Upper Peninsula before. It’s also a great place to capture your first exploration of Lake Superior.
Local’s tip: The Big Pine Picnic Area is a great place for a long walk on the beach or a dip in Lake Superior with freighters cruising by in the distance.
Looking for a rustic retreat? Monocle Lake, Soldier Lake, and Three Lakes campgrounds are all located in the Hiawatha National Forest! For more on this National Forest and reasons why its one of the must-see places in the Eastern U.P. visit here.
The Tahquamenon Falls State Park encompasses a total of 46,179 acres of land, making it Michigan’s second-largest state park. It’s also the most popular state park in the Upper Peninsula and features close to 300 camping sites.
The park offers many season-dependent activities. In spring and summer, popular activities include hiking, biking, fishing, bird watching, sightseeing, and camping. The ultimate time for visiting is the picturesque fall season. The color change among the trees creates the perfect scenery for photography. Come wintertime, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. No matter the season, if you enjoy hiking, take the must-see four-mile trail down to the lower falls.
Also, at the park, there is a restaurant, gift shop, and their very own brewery and pub in one building. Go visit before it closes in the late fall until early spring.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic day hike, incredible photography opportunities, or a chance to connect with the region’s natural beauty, Naomikong Point delivers an unforgettable Lake Superior experience. Naomikong Point is one of the Sault Ste. Marie area’s hidden natural gems, offering a peaceful hiking experience along the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior.
We love seeing your pictures! If you have visited any of these or have your own favorite spot off the beaten path, share your experiences on social media. Make sure to use the hashtag #ilovethesoo so we can see them and maybe even feature them in our next blog or social post! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, X, and Pinterest.
Plan Your Visit to Sault Ste. Marie
Whether you’re coming for the parks, the waterfront, or the vibrant downtown area, there’s truly no place like Sault Ste. Marie. Once you’re here, you’ll quickly understand why locals rave about summertime in the Soo. From outdoor adventures to unique local experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Start planning your visit today!
