Chasing northern lights

experience

Aurora borealis

Beautiful ribbons of vibrant light—mostly hues of blues and greens—in the sky.

This phenomenon is caused when energized particles from the sun smash into the earth’s upper atmosphere at intense speed. As earth’s magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles (there are southern lights, too), the process transforms into an atmospheric spectacle that dazzles anyone lucky enough to catch the show.

When to see them

April / August / October / November

are considered the peak months for viewing the northern lights; however, they’ve been known to appear sporadically throughout the year as well.

Your best bet is to check with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Northern Lights Forecaster at WWW.NOAA.GOV. You’ll also want to pay attention to the National Weather Service predictions. Remember, the clearer the night, the better visibility will be.

Where to See Them?

Lake Superior beaches make great viewing areas for the northern lights in the Munising area. If NOAA is predicting solar activity, check out Sand Point Beach, Miners Beach or Twelvemile Beach as many people have had luck seeing them at those locations.

Keep in mind that the auroral display is low on the horizon because of the area’s latitude, so you don’t want to go somewhere deep in the woods where your view can be easily obstructed.

Don’t Forget About the Sunsets, Too!

Nothing compares to catching a sunset over Lake Superior, especially in the Pictured Rocks where rays reflect off towering cliffs and sea caves. We suggest checking out Sand Point Beach and Miners Beach for some of the best views.

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PLAN AHEAD

start planning
your trip

No matter what time of year you plan to travel to Munising, it’s best to plan to ensure your vacation goes as smoothly as possible. But don’t worry, we have all the resources you need.

Munising offers an array of options for dining out, from fast-casual establishments to upscale restaurants. 

Munising offers countless lodging options to choose from, including boutique hotels, small family-owned motels, and secluded cottages and cabins. 

Whether you want to snowmobile, view some of the most beautiful fall foliage in America, or relax on a magical beach, Munising’s four seasons have something for everyone.

While its rural location is part of the charm, cell service can be an issue for some arriving in the Upper Peninsula. Fortunately, we have a range of maps and guides to help you along the way.

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