Michigan has some of the most beautiful national and state parks in the country, without a doubt. That is especially true around the Traverse City and Ludington areas. Parks filled with animals, history, and numerous lakes are available. The question is: what are the greatest state and national parks in Michigan? To give you an answer, Liv MultiFamily has assembled a list of the five most picturesque state and national parks in Michigan.
Michigan offers a vast array of beautiful natural parks beyond the Great Lakes.
The Most Fun and Beautiful Parks in Michigan
Not only does Michigan have The Great Lakes, but the state is also home to remarkable forests, beaches, and plenty of historical landmarks. Regardless of your interests, you're sure to find a place that suits you from the list below.
1. Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park is one of the United States' least-visited national parks, with only 25,000 visitors in 2021. Comparing that to Yellow Stone's 4 million annual visitors, you might wonder why it is on this list. While it takes hours by ferry to get there, it is known for its amazing and almost untouched wildlife. In the isolated region, surrounded by a magnificent landscape, wolves and moose wander free. There's a lot to do in this area, ranging from walking to boating and camping. Keep in mind that the terrain is tougher here than it is in other national parks. As a result, it's ideal for more experienced trekkers, but families may have fun with the junior ranger program.
What Makes It Special:
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Calmness: The lack of cars on the islands makes Isle Royale National Park one of the more tranquil parks in America, which only strengthens its feeling of being cut off from everything.
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Zoology Studies: What's interesting is that Isle Royale National Park has been the focal point of predator-prey researchers since the 1950s. Researchers, as well as tourists, are fascinated by the relationship between moose and wolves on these islands and how their interactions shape the local ecosystem.
2. Keweenaw National Historical Park
Have you ever wanted to travel back in time? Well, at Keweenaw National Historical Park, you can do just that. This national park is one of the most historic sites in Michigan and is known for its copper mining history. The first settlers who came here mined copper and used it to make a variety of tools. Today, the region is still home to a large lava flow that produces 97% pure native copper. The visitor center, rich in historical displays and videos, is a great place to start your exploration of the area. In addition to learning about the past, you can enjoy many present-day activities such as hiking trails, underground mine tours, museums, and heritage sites.
What Makes It Special:
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A Virtual World: For those who enjoy playing Minecraft, the site offers the thrilling Keweenaw NHP Minecraft Project. Players from all over the world may now virtually construct Keweenaw National Historical Park together, bringing history back to life.
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Geocaching: If you enjoy combining the virtual and real worlds, check out geocaching at this park. Explore the huge areas and discover various geocaches in the region.
3. River Raisin National Battlefield Park
If you love learning about history, River Raisin National Battlefield Park is the perfect place for you. A key location during the War of 1812, the park commemorates the battles that took place here in January of 1813 and pays tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives. Visitors come every year to learn more about what happened here and how it impacted the region. The visitor center is packed with fascinating relics, orientation maps, and dynamic, instructive exhibits. The River Raisin Heritage Trail has beautiful hiking and cycling paths throughout the park that you can enjoy after filling yourself on your war knowledge.
What Makes It Special:
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War Re-Enactments: If you'd like to get a feel for what battles were like two hundred years ago, attend one of the park's Living History events. Local historians and battle enthusiasts can fire cannons, discharge guns, and re-enact fight techniques at the event.
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Flag Waving: Another must-see event is the annual Field of Remembrance Memorial Flag display at the park, which takes place every November. For two weeks, 500 flags are raised in memory of all those who served and fell in combat.
4. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a stunning national lakeshore in Michigan that attracts tourists from all over the world. There are miles and miles of pristine beaches, lush forests, crystal-clear inland lakes, and even tiny settlements to explore. The Dune Climb is still the most popular attraction for many visitors, who may travel three to four hours along the sand dunes to Lake Michigan. However, if you only want to sample the park, climb up the dunes as far as you'd like and run back down, assisted by gravity. If you don't know how long you'll be there, The National Service has activity ideas for you to pick from, demonstrating just how much there is to do in this park.
What Makes It Special:
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Bark Ranger Program: Got a doggo? Then you and your dog will enjoy the Lakeshore's Bark Ranger Program. You'll check in and volunteer with other dogs and their owners to keep watch of the beaches and ensure that visitors follow the park rules. It's a fantastic method to unwind on the beach while also giving back to your community.
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Scenic Drives: The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is one of the most beautiful drives in the country, with stunning vistas and natural beauty. The entire trip takes around two hours, but you may look at woodlands, beaches, and numerous picnic sites during your journey.
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Lastly, we come to the National Parks Service's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The main attraction here are the multicolored sandstone cliffs. Caused by iron, copper, manganese, and limonite mineral deposits, these cliff sides make for a breathtaking experience. Most visitors find their favorite way to take it all in is via kayak journey around the park where you'll also have a chance to see some spectacular waterfalls up close! Of course, it isn't only the cliffs that have made this lakeshore so popular. Beaches, forests, and those well-known dunes are also here. Hike, bike, swim, or boat your way around the region to fall in love with its beauty at this unforgettable place.
What Makes It Special:
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Maritime Sites: If you're interested in maritime history, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the place for you. The Au Sable Light Station, Munising U.S. Coast Guard station, and Munising Rear Range light are just a few of the many historical sites located here. You can also learn about the U.S. Lighthouse Service, U.S. Life Saving Service, and U.S. Coast Guard.
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Winter Activities: This lakeshore, unlike many other national sites in the United States, is accessible throughout the winter. Snowshoeing, ice climbing, and snowmobiling are some of the activities you can attempt. And if you'd rather do something simpler during the winter, park and admire the area's beautiful ice curtains.
Start Planning Your Journey in Michigan. You May Want to Stay!
A sense of community is more important than ever before, and it's waiting at Liv Multifamily.
Those are some of the finest national and state parks in Michigan. Aside from these fascinating sites, Michigan is also a wonderful place to reside as a couple or single person. Liv Multifamily specializes in high-end apartments that promote community, inclusion, and plain enjoyment. Take a look at some of the reasons why you should live at Liv Multifamily now in Michigan.
