I also cant wait to visit the porkies in the summer and check out the iconic Lake of the Clouds! These 400-square-foot cabins are often located on scenic lots overlooking lakes, bays and rivers. It is also nice sometimes to have the flexibility of having a home base and then exploring the surrounding area via snow shoes or trail shoes without having to carry gear. Sign up for our mailing list to get updates on trip availability and blog posts. They've become popular for recreational purposes in the United States in the past few decades, especially in the Midwest where harsh weather calls for protection from the elements. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. From there, it wasless than half a milewalkto the yurt, perched on a small bluff above Lake Superior. The parks developed campgrounds are open from May through October, with first-come, first-served camping only in November. State park modern lodges located along snowmobile trails can be found in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Twin Lakes State Park, Tahquamenon Falls State Parkand P.J. Reservations for Michigan campgrounds, including the yurts, are accepted six months in advance. Fully fueled, we strapped into our snowshoes toheadto the parks downhill ski area. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers a rustic cabin experience. Yurts,portablecircular dwellingswith a lattice structure covered in felt or fabric, have been used in Central Asia, primarily Mongolia, for thousands of years. Katie Urbanpausedat a hillside lookout in the Porcupine Mountains of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Reserve cabins, yurts and the tiny house six months in advance at Michigan DNR Reservations, 800-447-2757. Trail 1 runs past the front of the driveway, gas and food just down the road a block. Clean & cozy couples cabin close to the Porcupine mountains~Rustic yet modern, Cozy White Pine Home - 10 Mi to Porcupine Mtn, Lots of amenities, close to Lake Superior and Porcupine Mountains. Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. The yurts include two sets of bunk beds, a table with four chairs, and a wood-burning stove inside. . TIP: Bring bear spray or wear a bear bell when hiking especially when alone or backpacking deep in the woods. Boating & Canoeing You can hop on at the Porcupine Mountains Sports Complex (the ski hill) located half a mile west of the Union Bay Campground along County Road 107. Most are fully furnished and the kitchens equipped with appliances, dishes and cookware. A Recreation Passport is required to visit all Michigan state parks. There are various options for lodging in and near Porcupine Mountain State Park that include campgrounds, cabins, and a few motels and hotels. - Washer/Dryer It wasmy firstwintertrip to the Porkies,one of my favorite places, and I wasgetting a new andequally as impressivelook at the60,000-acre park. In the summer, she said,dense foliage partially obscures the view, which is why its important to see your favorite places in all seasons there's always something new to see. Lake Superior Trail. - Jotul woodstove with wood supplied The yurt had two bunk beds and slept four people. While there are plenty of impressive places to experience fall color in Michigan, Porcupine Mountain State Park is one of the best. Guide to camping at Porcupine Mountain State Park, pictures, maps, descriptions, and links to camping and interesting things to see and do in the Porkies. Because the hike in was so shortand we had a natural cooler, we were able to haul in more food and drinks than we normally would on a backpacking trip. If youd like to do an overnight trip and want to leave the planning/booking to us, click here =). Mini-cabins can sleep four people on bunk beds and generally cost $35 per night during the winter months. from. This looks absolutely beautiful for fall foliage! In the morning, we did the four mile loop hike on the Deer Yard Trail. Mini-cabins also are located at the following state parks with networks of groomed cross country ski trails: P.J. They cost $68 per night, and entrance to the park for non-residents is$9 per day or $34 for the year. Atthe top,we followed Urban along the edge of one of theskiruns,thenheadedoff trail and into deep, fresh powder in the woods. Porcupine Mountains State Park, established in 1945, is just one of Michigans 103 state parks (Michigan state parks boast 28 million annual visitors!). - See 627 traveler reviews, 622 candid photos, and great deals for Ontonagon, MI, at Tripadvisor. What I like most about Porcupine Mountain State Park is that you can enjoy the beauty of the area whether you are limited on time or have all the time in the world. iPod. They have no plumbing or electricity. The Union Bay West yurt is50 yards past the East yurt. Wildlife enthusiasts like that the vicinity hosts a large black . The Big Carp River Trail is a long out and back that begins high on the bluff at the Lake of the Clouds overlook and descends down into the river valley all the way to Lake Superior. Unwind at charming lakeside cabins, full-service hotels and off-the-beaten path resorts A trip through history in the Porcupine Mountains Here's a closer look at the history of the area and the historic sites you can still visit today. All Hosts should review and adhere to these standards around providing a positive Hipcamp experience, being a thoughtful neighbor, and serving as a responsible citizen. We had everything we needed in the kitchen, little perks like a Keurig and toiletries in case we forgot anything. Rustic cabins are available in winter at the following state parks with groomed cross country ski trails: Cheboygan, Hartwick Pines, Porcupine Mountains, Rifle River, Sleeper and Wilderness. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park also offers rustic yurts. In the summer you can find trees, lakes, hikers, mountain bikers, birds, bears and mosquitoes. State Park Campground Packs for iPod, iTunes, Windows Media Player Find the perfect yurt in Michigan, secluded . This was truly one of the best places we have ever stayed, Everything ready for us when we arrived--shoveled & plowed out, cleaned, mechanicals all turned on & good condition. Find Scipio, UT undeveloped land for sale. Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, we offer the true four season vacation experience you deserve. Amazon Associates Disclosure Dang Travelers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Erin and Mike are the best. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Yurt Converts! Hoeft, Ludington, McLain, Muskegon, Port Crescent and Sleeper. Each outfitted with a metal ring, but with no other amenities. About a 5-10 mile drive to Porkies where we x-country skied. The yurts look especially cool. . Proof of that came the next morning, as we all stayed in bed until close to 9 much later than we normally would while camping. Services and facilities include free parking, a fridge and a kitchen. Add to that list the option of finding all three in one convenient, affordable location, and the clear winner is Michigan State Parks. 1. 2023 Mountain View Lodges. Yes, dogs are allowed in the state park, but they may not be left unattended in a vehicle or at the campsite at any time. Cabins are 3 day minimum for Summer bookings. These three parks, along with Fayette State Historic Park and Proud Lake State Park, also offer groomed networks of cross country ski trails adjacent to or near the modern lodges. Welcome to the Michigan DNR's official Facebook page for the. Wood for an outside fire must be collected from down sources. Many of these parks allow snowmobiling and all allow cross country skiing. We will receive a commission at no additional charge to you if you book through our link. But they are a group of small mountains nonetheless and in a section of one of the oldest mountain chains in the world. No pit toilets or water. Enter by April 10. After our jaunt, Domonick made us a gourmet backpacker dinner of macaroni and cheese! Youll take various boardwalks along the ridgeline where youll see Lake of the Clouds snuggled amid a valley of trees in one direction. The Cabin Up North is a log home nestled on 3.5 acres on the pristine shoreline of Lake Superior with 1000 feet of private beach. The campground hosts had hot chocolate, coffee, donuts, and homemade cookies every morning under a tent which was MUCH appreciated on our rainy days! That road provides access to the Lake of the Clouds overlook in warm-weather months, but its only plowed to the ski area in winter. Hiking, fishing, and boating are a few of the activities available here. Completely Furnished or running water (we carried in a few liters). Do not feed them and keep a safe distance if you run into one. Visitors should plan to provide their own bedding, cookware and camp stove. You must supply your own bedding, dishes and cookware. The roof of the structure was blown off during the July 21 windstorm. Check out this 16.3-mile out-and-back trail near White Pine, Michigan. In the Union Bay campground, there's also a new tiny house that sleeps four and has a kitchen, electricity and heat. Ski Storage Except for Sleeper Lake State Park and Holly Recreation Area, rustic cabins do not have electricity, and renters are encouraged to bring their own cookware, bedding and lanterns. The cabin will remain . Discover Lake Superior, scenic trails & more. You can choose from backcountry sites, rustic cabins, wilderness yurts, and the Kaug Wudjoo Modern Lodge. Click here to read more about Porcupine Mountains Backpacking. *The Sunday of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends is subject to the weekend rate. FULL DISCLOSURE: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. We wondered if it would be much different than the Lake of the Clouds because it follows the ridgeline as well. The views of the lake are amazing. Whether spring cooperates or not, we've got outdoor activities aplenty in March. Our goal is to highlight amazing locations,share our journeys andpost our favorite travel resources. There are many options available at Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, including: cabins, yurts, safari-style tents, or lodges and cottages with many of the amenities of home. Great Lakes beach safety. Vacation Log Home On Lake Superior - Please contact owner for available dates Silver City, MI, US 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms from USD 299 View Deal 7. Porcupine Mountains: Deer Yard & Superior Loop Buy the $.99 downloadable map! The highlands of the park were created more than a billion years ago during periods of volcanic activity, later being shaped by moving glaciers. We carried all the supplies we would need for the trip. Nestled in the foothills of the Porcupine Mountains, right on the sandy shore of Lake Superior, just 50 to 100 from the water! Hipcamp is created with and hope for our future. Also included is a short Yurt: Four yurts are available.To make a reservation visit www.midnrreservations.com or call 1 . The lantern-lit ski, snowshoe and hike is held from 6 to 9 p.m. every Saturday in January and February. We l For those who enjoy winter in the UP and skiing at the Porkies, this is a great place. Experience this 29.1-mile loop trail near Ontonagon, Michigan. A backcountry camping permit is required. Definitely burned off all that mac and cheese! Every Saturdayin the winter, the park hosts a one-mile lantern-lit ski, snowshoe and hike on the Superior Loop conveniently close to our yurt. Ski area with 14 runs Since its construction, the cabin has been used as temporary housing by Forest Service rangers while they were . It is a blanket of orange at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level atop the 50-foot tower. Reservations and more information can be found at. Cell phone service may be patchy, but the Visitor Center has wifi. Blog, Trip Reports. Four of the parks 18 backcountry cabins are available for rent in the winter, with similar amenities to the yurts. The fire had died in the middle of the night, but the yurt stayed warmer than a tent would have, and it warmed up quickly after we restarted it. The modern lodges accommodate between six and 24 guests. The Porcupine Mtns area is stunning. World-renowned Mount Assiniboine, at an elevation of 3,618m, is situated along the continental divide near the southeast corner of the park, and has defined mountain splendour in the Canadian Rockies for over 100 years. You can also call1-800-447-2757 24 hours before you arrive to get the combination code for your yurt. Learn how your comment data is processed. We were traveling thru the Porcupine Mountains and drove by Union Bay at night and got somes cool sunset views. Your email address will not be published. Lake Superior bashed against the shore below, which was covered in ice. Refrigerator/Microwave/ect The yurts are popular, especially on weekends, so reserve early. If you are looking to have a unique glamping experience, you should definitely check out this romantic treehouse hosted by the Bolt family. (906) 885-5275 or (906) 885-5276. But once itwas ready, it made for a deluxe breakfast. They provide one of the best places to stay for a western UP snowmobile trip. The winter yurt and cabin reservations fill up really fast, so the only . Some of the best views are found at the Summit Peak Observation Tower and the Lake of the Clouds, but more than 90 miles of trails also await for hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing, depending on the season. Plus, its not that difficult of a trail so it was very relaxing. This is one of my favorite places to stay in the upper peninsula of Michigan. The further away from Lake of the Clouds you get, the less crowded it is. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. We got cozy in our sleeping bags and Domonick stoked/fed the fire every few hours, as the stove was not very large. Yurts are 2 day minimum at all times. If you're looking for a great place to go snowshoeing in the Upper Midwest, the Porcupine Mountains (aka the Porkies) are a great spot. Yurts and rustic cabins are extremely popular with cross country skiers because they often are located right on the ski trails. Gaze out at the night skies before bed and awaken in the morning . Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Wilderness Yurts Detail Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Wilderness Yurts Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Phone 800-447-2757 Recreation Passport Required Camp Sites/Fees (4) Overview Map Events Make a Reservation About the Area Seasonal road updates Park roads close Dec. 1 through late spring. E & W Union yurts are just yards from parking. Ontonagon, Michigan 49953 Phone: 906-885-5275 Reservations: 800-447-2757 Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is 15 miles west of Ontonagon in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Try Cornwall, Norfolk, France. To Reserve a Cabin Contact Park Headquarters weekdays between 8 AM and 4:30 PM Eastern at (906) 885-5275. It's around 8 miles from Ontonagon. And in the other direction, the Big Carp River weaving through the forest along with the pretty bridge crossing the water. With 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, snaking rivers, spectacular vistas, and picturesque waterfalls, the Porkies will impress the most avid traveler. Check out our new camping (Pro tip: Always invite friends camping who are better camp cooks than you are.). I havent been to the Upper Peninsula part of Michigan yet, but it looks dreamy. video tour of the Fernberg We are also an excellent location for planning day trips to other popular attractions, such as the Keweenaw Peninsulas Copper Harbor. Contact Us, 2023 Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Porkies are laced with almost 110 miles of trails that wind past cascades, streams full of brook trout, 63 backcountry campsites, 18 walk-in cabins and yurts and a nearly endless number of panoramic views that rival anything seen south of the Mackinac Bridge. Sipping warm cider I didnt have tohaul in orprepare,next to a fire I didnt have to buildor maintain, as light snow fell beautifully on a lantern-lit trailthose areall the best parts of winter camping without any of the work. campgrounds are really like The Porcupine Mountains Ski Area normally receives 140 to 200 inches of snow a year. Depending on the time of year-black flies. Dates Guests Guests AdultsAges 16 or above ChildrenAges 3-15 Any pets? Other attractions include the Summit Peak observation tower, Porcupine Mountains Ski Area, an 18-hole disc golf course and much more. Despite being referred to by its abbreviated name, the park is actually the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigans largest state park, and only designated wilderness area. The Ojibwe looked at the tree-covered hills mountainous by Midwestern standards and thought they resembled the spiny back of a porcupine. - Dog Friendly 2023 Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Theres something about the sound of rushing water thats so soothing. Mild temperaturesoutsidehelped us avoid the freezing cold end of the spectrum. Call1-800-447-2757 or see, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. 22,553 were here. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 37 min to complete. Cool temperatures arrive in early September. The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is 9 miles away along Lake Superior, offering skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hiking and waterfalls. When you check in, we will provide all you need to make your vacation one to remember! Unique inns, bed-and-breakfasts and VRBO experiences combined with top-notch quality hotels like Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn and Suites along with some great cabin and yurt . - No Cleaning Fee, Park Place - Updated Home Close to Downtown, Steve's Sweet Spot - UP Adventure Getaway, Modern Farmhouse Cottage (New Build - Fall 2019), Treat your inner kid to a home in the trees. people prefer not having to set up camp, and this is a nice way The host is awesome and v Our family enjoyed the cozy cabin! Are the Porcupine Mountains real mountains? Located on 100 acres of natural splendor with scenic views of the mountains and the countryside in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Chestnut Lake . Campsites and cabins can book up fast over summer and holiday weekends, so reserve at least three months in advance. If you havenot visited the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Silver City, Michigan, make this theyear for your Michigan vacation! TIP: If you are trying to avoid people, head straight over to East River Trail and make it an out and back instead. As far as backcountry campsites, there are 63 throughout the park. Accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas are available. Ours had a lattice structure inside, with a tan, waterproofexterior that provided good protection. Ready to deepen your love of our amazing planet? TIP: Bring your own toilet paper. - 25+ yrs experience This brand new single Difficulty: Moderate on the way down, Strenuous on the way back up. . Our northern Michigan "cabin" rentals offer all the conveniences of home in a majestic wilderness setting. The trail affords a beautiful view of Lake Superior. With more than 30 parks offering winter lodging facilities, ranging from rustic cabins to fully furnished lodges, it has never been easier for winter recreation enthusiasts to enjoy their outdoor pursuits while staying on or close to the trails they are using. Located at the west end of Michigan's Upper Peninsula in Ontonagon County, the Porcupine Mountains got their name from early explorers who thought the tree outlines along the crests looked like porcupine quills. Your email address will not be published. Historical Museums Either way, you'll find a rental for everyone's needs. The site also includes a picnic table and a fire ring. 888-784-7328, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Unplug and Reconnect with a Great Family Camping Adventure. Pick from the more than 220 miles on the Shore-to-Shore trail that connections Lake Huron and Lake Michigan or pick your favorite day hike along the North Country National Scenic Trail. Photo 5, Photo Courtesy @shelbydiamondstar Photo 7, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Renters should bring their own bedding, cookware, flashlights and cookstove. Gas Fireplace Winter, spring, summer, or fall, Porcupine Mountains Rustic Cabins provide a close-up view of the awesome Porkies the affectionate moniker Yoopers give to this small Michigan range. It made for terrific snowshoeing some of the best Ive done and it frosted the forest in white,clinging to branches and trunks andproviding a gorgeous backdrop for exploring. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers many opportunities to camp within its borders. This guide will go over the best time to visit, lodging options, must-do hiking trails, the best waterfalls, and frequently asked questions below. Snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals are available at the ski area. However, by mid-February though conditions were ideal - for downhill skiing, cross country, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Book Description When the summer visitors leave in the fall, a new group of visitors moves into the vacation cottage to spend the winter. No running water or electricity is provided. Box 1, Ontonagon, Michigan 49953 It has 50 rustic sites near the river with vault toilets and hand pumps for water. Cabin: Speaker's Cabin at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park was moved 12 feet Tuesday, away from an undermined riverbank along Speaker's Creek. Because of its hilly topography, 35,000 acres of the park weren't. They cost $68 per night, and entrance to the park for non-residents is $9 per day or $34 for the year. One of the rustic cabins in the Porcupine Mountains - Hard to believe this runs $68.00 a night. The park provides woodfor the yurts stoves, but youmustcollectdowned wood if you want afire outside. When results are available, navigate with up and down arrow keys or explore by touch or swipe gestures. It has 2 bedrooms and handy features including a fireplace and towels. Whether youre heading to the lakeshore in summer or hitting the ski slopes in winter, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness welcomes adventurers through all four seasons. At roughly 60,000 acres, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is Michigans largest state park and one of the few remaining large wilderness areas in the Midwest. The area getsnearly200 inches of snow every winter,almost guaranteeing white stuff for winter adventures. Abouthalfway through the loop,Urban was stationed at the White Birch warming shelter with a roaring bonfire and hot chocolate, cider, tea and coffee. View photos, research land, search and filter more than 1 listings | Land and Farm Depending on the season, you can hike, swim, canoe, or ski in this beautiful area in Michigan. Required fields are marked *. Mountain View Lodges offers close proximity to numerous hiking trails, abundant waterfalls, shops, museums and historic sites, Ontonagon County is where history comes to life. A Cabin & A Cottage Up North Two year-round rental homes in Silver City, Michigan, 1 mile and 5 miles the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Take in the views from your back deck, relax around the bonfire, enjoy walk to Lake Superior, hike or snowshoes the North Country Trail to waterfalls or take a day trip to the Porkies.