Michigan Upper Peninsula Fall Colors Trip

Price

$300

Duration

4 Days 3 Nights

Difficulty

Moderate

Group Size

15 Guest

Max Altitude

2,023 ft

🍁 Michigan Upper Peninsula Fall Colors Trek

Experience the vibrant magic of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula at the peak of fall. We’ll explore iconic trails, roaring waterfalls, and serene forest paths painted in fiery reds, oranges, and golds. Our 3-day adventure includes hiking along dramatic cliffs at Pictured Rocks, chasing waterfalls near Marquette, and soaking in the rich colors around Tahquamenon Falls and Clark Lake. With crisp air, quiet trails, and breathtaking views, this is fall hiking at its finest.

Families are welcome to join; we will have options for them.

With Gold Adventure, you’re not just hiking—you’re discovering. From pacing and trail interpretation to mindful moments along the way, we make sure your journey is more than just a summit—it’s a story worth telling.

Trip Highlights:

Trip Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, iconic waterfalls, historic lighthouses, and golden forests in peak color.

What is included:

3 days’ stay/lodging on a shared basis
3 breakfasts
2 Lunch (brown bag lunch)
2 dinners
Snacks, water, and fruits

What’s not included:

Personal expenses

Transportation – we will be carpooling.

National Park fees/permits

Cost

Total: $300
Deposit: $75 (non-refundable, due at booking)
Balance:$225 (due by July)
Payment mode: Zelle
Zelle to mihikersgold@gmail.com
What to bring:
- Layers! (Think: base layer, fleece, windbreaker)
- A beanie or hat—mornings can dip into the low 40s°F (5–8°C)
- Gloves and a rain shell—just in case
- Good hiking shoes with traction (trail can be slick with frost or mud)

Notes

Day 1(Thursday) and Day 4 (Sunday PM) are Travel days.

Trail & Trip Advisory:

While we aim to follow the planned itinerary as closely as possible, please understand that adjustments may be necessary due to weather, trail conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances. Flexibility is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

🍂 Gold Adventure: Michigan Upper Peninsula Fall Colors Trek

Dates: [02 Oct to 05 Oct]
Trip Level: Moderate
Best For: Fall foliage lovers, scenic photographers, and nature enthusiasts
Trip Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, iconic waterfalls, historic lighthouses, and golden forests in peak color.

Day 1

Friday: Cliffside Trails, Autumn Coastlines & Waterfall Wonders

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Morning Hike:
Mosquito River to Chapel Rock Trail Loop
🥾 Distance: 10 miles loop | ⛰ Elevation Gain: 626 ft | ⏱ Time: ~4 hrs | 🔥 Highlight: We begin our adventure with one of the most iconic hikes in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Starting from the Chapel trailhead, we first reach Chapel Rock, a dramatic sandstone formation topped by a lone pine, followed by the wide sands of Chapel Beach.
The trail then hugs the Lake Superior shoreline, offering jaw-dropping views of the Pictured Rocks cliffs bathed in fall colors. We continue to Mosquito Beach, where flat stone shelves meet crashing waves—a perfect rest stop before looping inland.
The return follows the Mosquito River through vibrant hardwood forest, offering a peaceful end to this scenic loop. Fall colors light up the trail from start to finish, making this a must-hike for the season.
Alternate Option (Shorter):
Mosquito River to Chapel Beach
🥾 Distance: 7.5 miles out-and-back | ⛰ Elevation Gain: 492 ft | ⏱ Time: ~3 hrs
Ideal for those seeking a shorter version with equally rewarding lake views.
Lunch Stop & Mini Waterfall Walk:
Sable Falls Trail
🥾 Distance: 0.6 miles | ⛰ Gain: 100 ft | ⏱ Time: 1 hr
Gentle falls surrounded by golden-leafed trees—perfect for a quiet lunch and leaf-peeping.
Afternoon Scenic Spots:
Log Slide Overlook
🥾 Distance: 0.4 miles | ⏱ Time: 30 minutes
Towering sand dunes and a panoramic view of Lake Superior’s fiery fall coastline.

Au Sable Light Station Hike
🥾 Distance: 3 miles out-and-back | ⛰ Gain: 39 ft | ⏱ Time: ~2 hrs
Walk through tunnels of color to one of the UP’s most historic lighthouses, backed by forest and shoreline.

Evening Golden Hour Walk:
Miners Castle & Miners Beach Hike
🥾 Distance: 3 miles out-and-back | ⛰ Gain: 324 ft | ⏱ Time: 2 hrs
Wrap up your day with the sunset light hitting the cliffs and waves of Lake Superior.