Hiking

Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while hiking through the pristine Michigan wilderness in the Upper Peninsula. With panoramic peaks and miles of shoreline, Marquette County offers much to discover on foot. Here's a short guide to unforgettable hikes in Marquette. 

Hogback Mountain

At Hogback Mountain, there's a moderate 2.8-mile hike featuring wildflowers, twisty trails, wildlife, and rocky terrain. Despite the challenge, Hogback Mountain offers incredible views of the U.P. shoreline. You can hike the dog-friendly trail year-round, but summer offers the best climate. 

Mt. Marquette

With views of historic Marquette and the expansive shoreline of Lake Superior, you can hike to Mt. Marquette, 1,200 feet in elevation, on a moderately trafficked 3.7-mile loop on the Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN). The trail to Mt. Marquette is accessible year-round — by car (one-way road), bike, or foot in warmer months and by snowshoe or snowmobile in winter. Mt. Marquette offers a popular outlook with views of the city nearby. 

Sugarloaf Mountain

A local favorite, Sugarloaf Mountain, is a must during your stay here in Marquette. You can hike to the peak of Sugarloaf, located six miles north of downtown Marquette, on a quick 1.2-mile loop perfect for beginners and families. Note this trail is dog-friendly, though leashes are required. Once you reach the peak, you'll find viewing platforms with panoramic views of the U.P. and the pristine Lake Superior shoreline.

Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook

With panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding lush landscape, the Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook in Big Bay is a must-see. The outdoor attraction features on-site parking and restrooms near the mile-long ADA-accessible trail, which offers railings, benches, and wide paths. 

While making your way to the overlook, keep an eye out for information posts along the way that describe the plants and local wildlife you might encounter during your hike.

The North Country Trail

The North Country Trail (NCT) stretches 4,700 miles through eight U.S. states. Marquette is one of the 18 trail towns and one of two in the U.P. The Center Upper Peninsula section traverses through large parcels of private and gorgeous wilderness and along the shores of Lake Superior. To learn more about how to hike this expansive trail, check out our guide.