When autumn arrives in Munising, the forests around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore explode into beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold. Crisp Lake Superior air, crunching leaves underfoot, and unforgettable overlooks make fall one of the very best times to hike here. Whether you’re looking for low effort and big views or a full-day adventure, Munising’s trails deliver. Here are five stunning fall hikes in Munising to explore this season:
Just four miles north of H-58 off Miners Castle Road, this easy 1.2-mile round-trip trail is a must-do in autumn. A peaceful walk surrounded by colorful trees leads you to one of the most powerful waterfalls in Pictured Rocks, where the Miners River plunges 50 feet over a sandstone cliff. Along the way, you’ll find multiple viewpoints of Miners Falls, including a lower platform reached by 64 steps. With the mighty roar of the falls and glowing leaves all around, this short Munising trail feels like pure fall magic.
Looking for some variety? This 4-mile loop gives you a little bit of everything: waterfalls, forests, and lakeshore. Mosquito Falls tumbles over three rock shelves, more beautiful than ever, surrounded by fall foliage. Continue on the trail through a quiet forest, and you’ll soon arrive at Mosquito Beach, where a stunning sandstone shore meets the crashing waves of Lake Superior. The mix of woodland color and two standout views makes this a bucket list hike for fall in Munising.
For hikers looking for a longer adventure to take in the beautiful fall foliage, the Bay de Noc – Grand Island Trail is an excellent choice! This trail offers a 17-mile point-to-point route (part of a 40-mile system) that traces the historic Chippewa portage between Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. The trail overlooks the Whitefish River basin and winds through dense forest that glows golden in autumn. Bay de Noc is a peaceful, less-traveled trail perfect for backpacking, camping, or a challenging day hike. Dogs (and even horses!) are welcome, so bring your adventure buddies along this Munising trail.
We couldn’t forget about one of the most iconic overlooks in Pictured Rocks, Miners Castle! Miners Castle Trail is a short (wheelchair accessible) hike with big rewards, perfect for when you’re short on time. A paved, half-mile loop leads to three overlooks showcasing panoramic views of Lake Superior, Grand Island, and the sandstone “castle” formations. In autumn, the combination of the bright turquoise water and fiery leaves creates the perfect photo opportunity. If you want to keep exploring, the North Country Scenic Trail continues from the overlooks down to Miners Beach for an extra mile of colorful scenery.
For the ultimate fall color adventure, hop on the ferry and head to Grand Island to explore its 20.5-mile loop trail. The route brings you up close to cliff tops rising 150 feet above Lake Superior, dips into quiet forests, and passes historic sites and secluded beaches. Fall transforms the island into a breathtaking kaleidoscope of color, making it a must-visit trail this autumn. Whether you decide to take on the full loop or explore a shorter section, Grand Island is a fall bucket-list experience in Munising.
Plan Your Fall Hiking Trip!
Peak color in Munising typically runs from late September through early October, but crisp fall hikes can be enjoyed all season long. Bring layers, pack a camera, and plan to spend some extra time on the trail soaking in the autumn views. Ready to plan your perfect fall adventure in Munising? Check out the tools below to get started!
