If traveling elsewhere on the island, bring water with you or filter/boil/treat surface water. Swim in Lake Superiors pristine, frigid waters. We took the ferry over for a bike ride in mid July..the bike trails are wide and clearly marked. In the unlikely event that you are attacked by a Black Bear, fight back. Guided, chauffeured tours are also available seven days a week, when conditions are right, through Lake Superior Ice Cave Tours. The ferry ride is only about a five-minute trip. Take in memorable views of towering 300-foot escarpments, as well as stunning inlets and beaches, while kayaking the crystal-clear waters between Williams Landing and the East Channel Lighthouse. The island is over 20 miles around so we came up a little short on our ride. Wow what beauty, and views, especially along the west side. The tour buses are wheelchair accessible, as are some of the trails at the stopping spots; other trails are sandy and have uneven terrain. Trailhead: West Rim Trail (46.453228, -86.672652) begins about 100 yards north of the Grand Island ferry docks. If you havent kayaked around Grand Island, you havent kayaked. Not only that, there was no one available to help. Ride and hike over 40 miles of challenging mountain bike trails and scenic walking paths. Do not turn and run. One of the Upper Peninsulas best-kept secrets, Grand Islands Ice Caves often appear when the temperatures drop to bone-chilling levels. In the gift shop, there were ladies who were renting canoes. 2022 Advance Local Media LLC. The ferry price for one passenger is $15. Wash dishes and clothes in a pot and dispose of the waste water in a hole at least 100 feet from the nearest water supply. It seemed to work for a day or two, and then things got worse. Whether hiking or bicycling, the key is to know your pace and keep track of the time. Michigan (MI) Upper Peninsula Munising Things to Do in Munising Grand Island Grand Island See all things to do Grand Island 4.5 About Reviews 189 #8 of 35 things to do in Munising Islands Visit website Call Write a review About Great biking trail on the 20-mile perimeter of the Upper Peninsula. A couple of hundred residents claim Beaver Island as their permanent home, but in the summer thousands flock to the small town of St. James for a one-of-a-kind Michigan vacation. Echo Lake, the islands largest inland lake, typically offers bass, pan fish, and pike, while Murray Bay is renowned for its perch, pike, walleye, and rock bass. Whatever your finishing time, youll set a personal record for the most beauty seen in one race! Kayak beneath soaring cliffs through Lake Superiors crystal-clear waters. Grand Island is closed to rock climbing, rappelling and portable generators. North Manitou Island lies to its north, approximately 12 miles from Leland, and has a land area of 22.346 square miles. Some earlier review mentioned the poor quality of the rental bikes but that was last year a new company has taken over and everything is brand spanking new! Its an old saying, but a fed bear is a dead bear, said Brian Roell, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist who coordinated the bear trapping effort. Reservations are required for most of these sites, although three are first-come, first-serve. Do get up early if you want to rent a bike because there is a limited supply. We couldn't get mountain bikes and had to settle for beach combers. Grand Island is located just one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, MI. Grand Island provides several great locations for anglers interested in a wilderness fishing experience. Michigan girl recovering from cuts, puncture wounds Conservation officers shot and killed a black bear in northern Michigan and plan to conduct tests on the animal to determine whether it's. People are not doing wildlife any service when they provide them with food. The historic homes that remain on the island are now over 100 years old and are impeccably maintained by their summer residents. I anticipate that bikers must take a boat to bike the island. Any scented toiletries (sunscreen, chapstick, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, ect). Visitors should follow the "pack-it-in/pack-it-out" method, everything you carry onto the island you should carry off with you, including garbage. Grand place to get away from everyday life Just spent a day mountain biking the perimeter of the island. Camp beneath a dazzling blanket of stars or stay in a rustic cabin. The Grand Island Ferry Service Gift Shop on the mainland offers a lot of gear and souvenirs. Bug spray is a must. Please keep your dog on a leash and in your control at all times. Departure Point: Powell Point (on Mainland) - Williams Landing (on island), June 15-30 and labor day -Oct 5 - Noon only. The island's scenic natural beauty and interesting history make it an attractive place for camping and other outdoor activities. Due to increasing awareness of the island, the number of people visiting Grand Island will continue to rise. We closed the island to camping temporarily, said Janel Crooks, the acting ranger for the forests Munising Ranger District which manages Grand Island. Email Howard Meyerson at howardmeyerson@gmail.com; follow him on his blog: The Outdoor Journal at howardmeyerson.com and on Twitter at twitter.com/hmeyerson. Explore Gull Point Campsite on Grand Island in Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan with Recreation.gov. Run the Grand Island Trail 50K, Marathon, or Half Marathon. Highly recommend Grand Island for solitude and adventure. If youre short on time, have mobility constraints, or just want a fun, interactive overview of Grand Island, dont miss the Grand Island Interpretive Bus Tour. Everything you carry in, you also carry out with you, including garbage. Several stops include short nature walks, as well, and give visitors the opportunity to see wildlife such as black bear, white-tailed deer, and sandhill cranes! The Grand Island Ferry Service provides transportation to Grand Island just off the coast of Munising, MI. Camping on the island had to be suspended for several days last week because of escalating problem encounters between campers and bears. We have had people say we want to get close and take a picture. We want them, instead, to respect the bear. Look for the Grand Island National Recreation Area signs. Trout Bay, as its name suggests, offers lake trout and coho salmon. He didn't tell us NOT to go, so off we went! Hang food packs at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from tree trunks. I heard of one couple sitting on a beach that heard something and turned around there was bear right there. Located 27 miles off the coast of Charlevoix, the island is home to some of the state's most beautiful beaches, brilliant stars, and crystal clear waters. The last time bears were a problem on Grand Island was 2002, according to Roell. For information on the limited opportunities to utilize passenger vehicles and ATV's on the island contact Munising Ranger District at (906) 387-2512. Its a beautiful island and there is WOW, do not pass up a chance to visit here! Information is available at the Ranger . There were people who rode their bikes and seemed to be having a good time, but my wife and I were tormented by mosquitoes and the three hour bus tour really was not worth the time. If you are both observant and lucky you may be able to see a black bear during your visit. Michigans Department of Natural Resources does require that you obtain a fishing license prior to your trip, and special regulations for Echo and Duck Lakes apply. I paid for a mountain bike rental but when we got on the island there were no bikes that fit me - a 5'4" woman. Grand Island Michigan . Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. more. A trip to Grand Island isnt complete without a visit to its most iconic landmark, Grand Island North Light. While youre in the area, stop by the aforementioned North Light Beach, a beautiful crescent of sand that you just might have to yourself. Ferry Dock Address: N8016 Grand Island Landing Rd. Grand Island Michigan is found just north of Munising in Lake Superior. Full-day rental prices are $50 for a single kayak and $75 for a tandem. In addition, there are many hiking/biking opportunities along the island's perimeter as well as its interior, providing a relatively secluded setting for hikers seeking a measure of solitude. All this plus plenty of clean vault toilets - can't get much better! Camping on the island had. This is not a course for beginners, and the races organizers expect participants to be well trained. These bears were extremely habituated. We had to keep moving on the bikes to avoide them. 28 then drove down to the dock where the waters of Lake Superior hits the shores. While we cant guarantee youll see a black bear, we can guarantee youll find peace in the rugged solitude and beauty of Grand Island regardless of which trail you choose. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If youre game for bundling up and crossing 3,000 feet of Lake Superiors icy surface by snowmobile, snowshoes or skis, youll be treated to incredible views of icicles and other fantastic frozen formations. Beaver Island is an island in Lake Michigan in the U.S. state of Michigan.At 55.8 sq mi (145 km 2), it is the largest island in Lake Michigan and the third largest island in Michigan after Isle Royale and Drummond Island.The island is located approximately 32 miles (51 km) from the city of Charlevoix.Beaver Island had a total population of 657 at the 2010 census. At this time, hikers and mountain bikers are allowed to use all open roads and trails, but be aware that you must share some of the roads with vehicle traffic. Ride and hike over 40 miles of challenging mountain bike trails and scenic walking paths. Whether as part of a backpacking trip or a day hike, these trails provide you with unmatched views of wildlife, forests, water, and more. The ferry dock is located about 2.5 miles west of Munisings blinking traffic light on M-28. Refer to the attached map which shows routes available for motor vehicle travel. Please bury or pack out your toilet paper. However, visitors are advised to travel at their own risk, as there are no guarantees that the ice of Lake Superior is solid or safe. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique. The first settlers of European descent arrived in the early 1800s, and the first permanent settlement was established on the island in 1846 for the purpose of trading furs with the Ojibway Native American tribe. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 5 . Moving this many bears is kind of disturbing, Roell said. Wear layers of tightly woven light colors clothing for extra protection. Tickets are $23 per person, which includes a $5 Hiawatha National Forest fee. Biked in 4 miles from ferry, water about a mile from cabin, bike trail around island was in good A true treasure for the great state of Michigan. For those campers who choose to travel to the island in private watercraft, several options are available. Wash dishes and clothes in a pot and dispose of the waste water in a hole at least 100 feet from the nearest water supply. Take all your trash with you including: fruit rinds and cores, aluminum foil or plastic bags, cans and jars, food scraps and charred food scraps left in campfires. These rustic, charming cabins accommodate 4 people comfortably, and come equipped with a picnic table as well as wall-mounted propane heater for those chilly nights. Be sure to bring plenty of insect repellant and even a head net during those months. Island is inhabited by a large number of black bear so take that in to consideration while planning your trip but otherwise enjoy this amazing location. read more. What I do know is this is a long-standing problem that didnt happen overnight. Trails are all dirt and some are quite rough, so it's also a good workout. It's short ferry ride from Munising. For one of them that meant losing a wallet and phone. Way more to see and less crowded than Pictured Rocks. They had to get a reward for them to do that. We had a perfect cloudless sky the day we were there, add in great views of water and cliffs it was the highlight of our trip to the UP. Call (906) 387-4845 from 7am to 5pm, Monday thorough Friday, for reservations and ticket information. NOTE: The bridge across North Light Creek at the far north end of the island is washing out and is not safe to cross. Take the Grand Island Interpretive Bus Tour. Hazing techniques were initially tried, according to Crooks. Anglers can enjoy fishing in Echo Lake which typically offers bass, pike and pan fish. Rent your kayak at the gift shop, hop on the ferry, and upon arrival, youll be issued your watercraft. Through the Recreation Enhancement Act, a daily entrance fee of $5.00/per person is charged per visit to the island. Many dogs have fallen off the cliffs of Grand Island. Set up your tent under the starry skies of the Upper Peninsula at one of 21 designated campsites that dot Grand Island. The U.S. Forest Service purchased it from Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co., in 1990 and Congress then designated it a National Recreation Area. Its still safe to ride bikes there and hike or take the bus tour, but visitors do have a role to play in not training the bears to have bad habits.. The mosquitoes, black flies and stable flies can be nuisance all summer. Practices that can help you reduce your impact on Grand Island's resources should be followed. Look for the Grand Island NRA signs. Avoid climbing on or standing along the sandstone cliffs. Grand Island Ferry Service, Inc. is a concessionaire for the United States Forest Service Department of Agriculture and is an equal opportunity provider. Bring plenty of bug spray because the mosquitoes and black flies are vicious! Most animals found on Michigans mainland are also found on Grand Island, including black bears, which are generally afraid of humans and pose no danger. Rustic vault toilets are located at Williams Landing, Juniper Flats, Trout Bay and Murray Bay. It is a pristine, heavily wooded island with some secluded beaches, camping, biking, hiking, kayaking, fishing, etc. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 5 . News never stops. A gas grill and an outside fire grill are also provided, but plan on bringing your own equipment, including dishes, utensils, and sleeping bags. Unfortunately, that hasnt been the case on Grand Island National Recreation Area in Lake Superior, near Munising where tourists or campers have been feeding bears. Random camping is also allowed on the island, as long as leave-no-trace protocols are strictly followed. Rich in history, the Manitou Islands are a part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with almost their entire area available for hiking, camping and exploration. Season: Memorial Day weekend - Mid-October (when the ferry stops running) Permit: Ferry tickets ($20 for adults) include the forest use fee. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Looking for adventure on Grand Island? Your thirst for unforgettable adventures will be quenched on Grand Island! Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Also, keep in mind that domestic animals must be kept on a leash, except while being used for hunting. Wipe down picnic tables before vacating your site. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case on Grand Island National Recreation Area in Lake Superior, near Munising where tourists or campers have been feeding bears. In summary, we've loved our visits to Grand Island and will probably be heading back for more. For example, dont set your lunch on the picnic table and go for a swim. score: 531 , and 6 people voted. There is a narrated bus tour that covers part of the island and it's really fun to explore the island by yourself on a bike. The lighthouses first iteration was built out of wood in 1856, in anticipation of an increase in shipping traffic on Lake Superior thanks to the opening of the Soo Locks. Grab your pole, head to one of these beautiful destinations, and enjoy. In other areas of the island, dig a small 6-inch deep hole at least 100 feet from the nearest water source and cover after use. He said his dad ran the bike rental and would be back soon. Murray Bay is known for perch, pike, walleye and rock bass. Keep soaps and detergents out of lakes and streams. Camping was reopened August 19, 2014 on the island. Grand Island, located just off the north coast of Michigans Upper Peninsula, more than lives up to its lofty name. Including a camp stove, dishes, cooking utensils, toilet paper, lanterns, containers for carrying water, sleeping bags and pillows. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. . After waiting around for awhile we just grabbed a beach cruiser and took off. You can bring a bike on the boat with you for an extra fee. Munising MI, 49862. In addition to the passenger ferry service, the Forest Service has entered into an agreement with ALTRAN Transportation Company to provide ground transportation services on Grand Island. The Grand Island National Recreation Area is a national recreation area in Hiawatha National Forest under jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. You can rent one for only $30 at Williams Landing from the Grand Island Ferry Service. bug dope) and even a head net. Personal water craft (Jet skis) are not allowed on the island. Moral of the story: bring your own bike. Wow what beauty, and views, especially along the west side. The 1.5-hour ferry ride to . The cause back then was the same as now. Avoid climbing on or standing along the sandstone cliffs. Reservations ($8-10/night) are required for campsites. have been uncovered. For instance, do they take precaution and keep food or snacks out of tents, or come equipped with throw-lines to hang food bags at night, or carry in a bear-proof canister for storing food. Once bears become accustomed to human food, they become a nuisance and a threat to your safety. Next time I'll have to kayak the perimeter of the island.definitely beauty in all it's glory! One had to be killed. Currently, hiking-only trails have not been designated, however the Thumb's travel ways are reserved for hiking-only use. The only thing that makes the trail somewhat difficult is the length (we did the entire outer loop). Grand Island is the perfect place to spend a day or even just a few hours hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring. Use of motor vehicles off these routes is prohibited. The US Forest Service purchased the island in 1990, and incorporated it into Hiawatha National Forest. Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. We saw them some distance from the trail then turned and hightailed it out of there. Grand Island has no paved roads, and vehicles are not permitted, with the exception of the islands summer tour bus. Title:Grand Island -OverlookDescription:East End Overlook on Grand IslandSource: Title:Grand Island -OverlookDescription:East End Overlook on Grand The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. At Williams Landing, boats may be pulled ashore except where signs prohibit doing so. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique. This route, suitable for intermediate and advanced skill levels, takes about 4 to 6 hours to complete, allowing time for stops to stretch and take in the gorgeous views along the way. Its dramatic shoreline, forests and beaches draw visitors who come by ferry to hike or ride bikes or backpack and camp. If you see a bear near you, retreat slowly. Follow Leave No Trace techniques to help reduce your impact on Grand Islands resource. Conditions on Lake Superior change very rapidly and boaters are advised to monitor channel 16 on a ship-to-shore radio or listen to a NOAA weather radio. Grand Island offers a total of 21 campsites on the island, including 19 individual campsites and group campsites at both Murray Bay and Juniper Flats. The tour travels the southern part of the island and will last 2 to 21/2 hours. Explore Road'S End Campsite on Grand Island in Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan with Recreation.gov. Be prepared for jaw-dropping views and occasionally feisty Lake Superior winds and waves. Of course it depends on what you want. During the times when vehicle travel is allowed, access to Grand Island may be possible via the Forest Service tug and barge. Deet did not seem to deter the Deer Flies. Bears, become habituated to human food sources if they find it often enough. History The first Settlers came to the Island in the early 1800's when trading for furs was the prime industry. If a bear approaches you, frighten it by making yourself as big as possible. That's a good number for an island that size. $15 ferry r/t + mountain bike rental $30, reasonable. Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. The 15,000 acres of North Manitou Island are (with the . Written July 12, 2022 Trout Bay Beach boasts a long stretch of sugar sand, as well as great views of Lake Superior and Pictured Rocks, and secluded North Beach, though more difficult to access, is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Michigan. Prolonged exposure to these temperatures can lead to hypothermia. Plan to bring your own equipment. Playing dead is not appropriate. The island's breathtaking overlooks, pristine sandy beaches, fascinating cultural sites, deep hard woods, and inland lakes make it an exciting and secluded destination. Public toilets are located at Williams Landing, Trout Bay and Murray Bay. The best views of this historic structure are from the air, but if chartering an airplane or helicopter isnt in the cards, views of North Light and the stunning cliffs it rests atop are possible by boat, as well. The dock at Williams Landing is available for loading and unloading only, but not for unattended watercraft, as it must be kept open for public transportation ferries. Waving your arms and yelling, banging pans together, or throwing rocks. No one was attacked, but we acted on the side of caution. . The Ferry Dock is located on M-28 about 2.5 miles west of the Munising's blinking light. Ferry prices and schedules vary. Runners will be treated to spectacular vistas of one of the most beautiful shorelines anywhere in the Great Lakes region. Bathe in a similar manner. Its a wild animal and they have a part in ensuring it stays wild.. The island's scenic natural beauty and interesting history make it an attractive place for camping and other outdoor activities. Went there to camp overnight and it exceeded our expectations. The real gem is exploration from the water. Habituated bears lose their wildness and become a threat to people and property. Prolonged exposure to these temperatures can lead to hypothermia. Native Americans have long used the fisheries around Grand Island as a resource for year-round living. This spectacularly scenic isle is home to pristine beaches, towering sandstone cliffs, inland lakes, and old growth hardwood forests. Please make sure you know the combination before traveling to Munising. Grand Island is the perfect place to spend a day or even just a few hours biking and exploring. What you will find, however, is a host of campsite and cabin options that are surrounded by natural wonders more beautiful than anything Hilton or Marriott could dream up. Drinking water is available at Williams Landing , Juniper Flats, Murray Bay Day Use Area and along Murray Bay road. Bike tour is more strenuous than you might expect. If you are random camping hang these items in your pack 12 feet high and 10 feet from the trunk of a tree. Reservations are recommended but not required. Three campers also lost daypacks to bears. Grand Island is a must do. Bathe in a similar manner. We explored Grand Island by both bike and kayak. Store all food, scented items and trash in the food storage locker or on the bear proof food storage poles provided in each campsite/day use area. Riders will be treated to breath-taking overlooks and pristine sandy beaches -- as well as an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural history of the Island. Grand Island Loop Hiking Trail, Munising, Michigan Grand Island Loop RECOMMENDED ROUTE Intermediate 4.2 (5) Areas MI Upper Peninsula Grand Island " A beautiful two-day trip, with amazing cliff-side views and wildlife! All visitors must use care. The Grand Island Overnighter Loop is 22 miles long and is in the Grand Island National Recreation Area which is part of the Hiawatha National Forest. Camp beneath a dazzling blanket of stars or stay in a rustic cabin. Kayak along Grand Islands lofty sandstone cliffs. This has come down being a human problem.. The stone is very fragile and may not support your weight. We had reports from folks that a bear had ripped their tent and we also heard of bear coming up to them during the day. Artifacts from as early as 1300 B.C. The trail is wide and well maintained. Just spent a day mountain biking the perimeter of the island. Kayak beneath soaring cliffs through Lake Superior's crystal-clear waters. These are wild animals and are NOT to be harassed or fed. During winter months, access is possible only by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes. It had become aggressive. My wife did hike up a couple of the hills so it is not a ride through the park, but the cliff views will leave you speechless! There are few better places to find it than in the saddle of a mountain bike. Munising is such a great area, so much to do. Summer water temperatures of Lake Superior usually stay near 50 degrees, except in shallow bays. Dont have a bike? We arrived to find a rack of bikes unattended. Others reported bears that wouldnt leave a campsite. Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. All rights reserved (About Us). Grand Island is the perfect summer adventure destination. Grand Island is the perfect place to spend a day or even just a few hours biking, exploring, and appreciating nature. Went north along the eastern edge. Give bears with cubs plenty of room. Most of the hiking/mountain biking opportunities, though not officially designated, lie on old roadbeds, cross a variety of terrain and provide. Keep soaps and detergents out of lakes and streams. We (expect to) hear of one here and there getting into garbage, but these bears were approaching people at close distances. Located on Grand Island, Michigan offshore from Munising, Michigan, the Grand Island National Recreation Area covers approximately 13,500 acres (55 km 2) of Lake Superior woodland. Support MLive.com. But problems aren't a given if visitors practice good bear country manners. Be careful if you plan to camp in bear country. Grand Island offers surprisingly strenuous singletrack that snakes through sand and forest around the islands circumference. Bears can run up to 30 miles an hour. A 1,000-Mile Walk on the Beach: One Woman's Trek of the Perimeter of Lake Michigan (A 1,000 MILE ADVENTURE #1) by. Designated a National Recreation Area in 1990, Grand Island is a 13,500 acre addition to the Hiawatha National Forest showcasing a rich natural and cultural history and offering a great educational and fun opportunity for all! Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique. Hike over 40 miles of trails and gravel roads. They were relentless. Spectacular overlooks, pristine sandy beaches, fascinating cultural sites, deep hard woods, and inland lakes make Grand Island an exciting destination. Summer water temperature of Lake Superior remains steady at 46-48 degrees, even in shallow bays. ! And always try to leave sites cleaner than you found them. All of the bear, he explained, were captured at island campsites and released in remote areas on the mainland. That's just in the summer. Lots of hidden treasures, too, like the Murray House, Duck Lake, a centuries' old cemetery and Trout Bay beach. Hiking and mountain biking trails provide wonderful opportunities for day trips and give access via unsurfaced trails to some of the island's most spectacular scenery. Remember to reserve your campsite or cabin well in advance, as spots often fill up quickly during the summer months. We stopped whenever the trail came close to a nice beach. In 1867, the wooden structure was replaced with the current brick lighthouse, a 40-foot tower and a simple keepers house. While visiting Grand Island by private watercraft is possible much of the year when lake conditions permit, most visitors arrive by ferry, as personal boats are not allowed to land on the island. There are trips daily, so plan on spending at least 3 hours on the island. Visitors must follow the pack-it-in/pack-it-out method. Campsite List Seasons & Fees Rules & Cancellations Facility Information Grand Island is closed to rock climbing and rappelling. Conditions on Lake Superior change rapidly and boaters are advised to monitor channel 16 on the ship-to-shore VHF radio or listen to a NOAA weather radio. The stone is very fragile and may not support your weight. Information is available at the Ranger . The fee is included in the passenger ferry fee or you can pay at the Interagency Visitor Center or . Theres nothing quite like exploring Grand Islands network of trails and peaceful gravel roads on foot! We thought it might pass over and then we had several more incidents, Crooks said. It is a popular tourist destination. And don't forget to take your bug juice the flies and Mosquitos will suck you dry. View maps, videos, photos, and reviews of Grand Island bike trail in Munising. Drinking water is available at the hand pump at Murray Bay. Mountain bike Grand Islands 21-mile perimeter trail. We spent a day on Grand Island biking and taking in the sights. Rivers, Lakes, Pictured Rocks, Waterfalls, bike and hike trails abound. Trout Bay and around the island Lake Superior offers lake trout and coho salmon. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique. Make sure you bring plenty of fluids and bug spray is a must!! Bicycling off roads and trails is not allowed. Lots of hidden treasures, too, like the Murray House, Duck Lake, a centuries' old cemetery and Trout Bay beach. If you love natural beauty and getting away from it all, you will love Grand Island! Black Bears are normally afraid of humans and will leave the area in a hurry. While putting together your adventure travel itinerary for Grand Island, dont hesitate to reach out to the Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association for advice or information. On the other hand, reasonably fit individuals can mountain bike the 23-mile perimeter trail around the main island in a full day, with time for brief stops and some exploration. If traveling elsewhere on the island, bring water with you or filter/boil/treat surface water. If you want to avoid sharing your trail with mountain bikers, a 4-mile stretch of trail in the northeast part of the island, as well as the 2-mile Thumb Trail, have been designated as hiking-only trails. They were fantastic with interesting stones, clear water and gift from God views. Much of the trail hugs the shoreline offering great views. " Michael Zorko OpenMapTiles OSM 21.3 Miles Loop 854' High 605' Low 792' Up 792' Down 1% Avg Grade (1) 7% Max Grade (4) Lots of up and downs. These are wild animals and are NOT to be harassed or fed. Left Sand Point and paddled past two sunken ships. Neither do we. Grand Island is just outside the small town of Munising MI in the Upper Peninsula. read more, Went there to camp overnight and it exceeded our expectations. Keep in mind that domestic animals are required to be kept on a leash, except while being used for hunting. Visitors can get to the island via passenger ferry or private watercraft. Take your bike helmets some of the trails are rocky with loss sand and could lead to a nasty spill! Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Store all food, scented items and trash in the food storage locker or on the bear proof food storage poles provided in each campsite/day use area. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. All visitors should be prepared to spend at least one extra day on the island and leave a travel plan with someone on shore. While riding a ranger driving his truck in the opposite direction stopped to tell us that a sow and her cub were up ahead eating some blueberries. The Grand Island Ferry Service runs regularly throughout each day during summer months, between the Friday before Memorial Day and October 10. This narrated excursion includes a total of nine stops at scenic overlooks, stunning beaches, historical buildings, and an old cemetery, and lasts approximately 3 hours. Some of the trails were too rugged to us to travel without a mountain bike. The end result was that eight black bears were trapped and removed last weekend and Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wildlife staff said more might need to go. If youre looking for 5-star accommodations, you wont find them on Grand Island. Please bury or pack out your toilet paper. We need your help protecting the island. All of those practices make a difference. For more information, see Getting to the Island & Island Tours. In other areas of the island, dig a small 6-inch deep hole, at least 100 feet from the nearest water source, and cover after use. Do not burn that type of garbage, it will leave a scent behind and attract bears. If you are both observant and lucky you may be able to see a black bear during your visit. Kayakers reported that a bear ripped into their tent and then we had one that broke into a home on the island. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. If you cannot access the cabin, please call 906.202.1778. There are some amazing views and lots of different scenery, from lakes to marshes and different types of woods. Roads and trails on the island are currently maintained to low standards and some are in hazardous condition due to washouts, fallen trees, etc. It was pretty uncomfortable. Cooking can be done on your own camp stove, the provided gas grill, or on fire grill outside. One mark of a savvy back country camper is how they come prepared for bear country. Once youve crossed carefully, though, youll be happy to know that snowmobiles are permitted on Grand Island and its network of roads and trails! Several cabins are also available on a reservation basis from Grand Island Cabins. The ferry runs regularly through out the day from the Friday before Memorial Day to October 10th. 12. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Make sure you bring plenty of fluids and bug spray is a must! Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement updated 7/1/2022). The Bus Tour runs between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Grand Island comprises 13,500 acres of National Forest land, and boasts a rich cultural and natural history. Be aware that you may encounter island residents using vehicles year-round to access their homes. Bring a refillable water container. Others come by kayak to camp and tour the island's 35-mile shoreline. Its a beautiful island and there is Loreen Niewenhuis (Goodreads Author) 3.67 avg rating 215 ratings. The camping season is far from over. Accessible toilets are available at Powell Point, Williams Landing, Murray Bay and Trout Bay. 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars. Grand Island Cabins The cabins can comfortably accommodate up to four people (8 maximum). Never keep food in or near your tent. For instance, a family planning a full day of biking on the island can take a leisurely pace and travel up the southwest shore road, cut across the island to Trout Bay Overlook, travel down to Trout Bay Day Use for a picnic meal and beach walk, and finish the day biking down along Murray Bay to Williams Landing. And mountain bike is $5. Whether you are camping or just on Grand Island for a few hours, you can minimize your chance of a negative bear encounter by following a few simple rules: Never leave ANY of these items unattended at your campsite or picnic site: Failure to comply may result in a $100 fine CFR 261.58(cc). Nature enthusiasts enjoy hiking and mountain biking as they explore this secluded portion of the Hiawatha National Forest and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Grand Island LandingPO Box 333, Munising, MI 49895 Contact Map Amenities Accessible Travel + Leaflet What's Nearby Ferry Services Grand Island Ferry More Info Hotels & Motels Holiday Inn Express Lakeview - Munising More Info Cabin/Cottage/Vacation Rentals The Point More Info We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. Grand Islands weather is temperate and humid during the summer and cold during winter months. Dense forest and cliffs over looking crystal clear Lake Superior. Black bears live on this island. Grand Island offers many opportunities for outdoors people interested in hunting, fishing or trapping. Activities: Hiking, backpacking, beach hopping or beachcombing, mountain biking, birding, wildlife viewing, fishing. Consider your level of fitness and your pace as you make route choices. Grand place to get away from everyday life. Grand Island is a wild and scenic place perfect for nature enthusiasts to explore. Whether in the placid waters of Murray Bay or at Waterfall Beach, a rock-strewn destination on the islands west side, Grand Island offers a plethora of spectacular summer swimming spots in Lake Superiors crystal-clear, 50-degree waters. If you are traveling to and from the island on the passenger ferry, it is important to keep the ferry schedule in mind as you plan your time on the island. Be sure to bring plenty of insect repellent (a.k.a. The Manitou Islands MI are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and are found in Lake Michigan. A black bear roams a northern Michigan forest. Grand Island is the perfect summer adventure destination. Black bears live on this island. Grand Island Ferry Service. Eventually a young boy rode up and asked if we needed help. Campsite List Seasons & Fees Rules & Cancellations Facility Information Ratings & Reviews More Filters Availability Grid Campsite List Refresh Table Expand Table They also reduce the likelihood of bears associating campers with an easy meal. The light was automated in 1941, and the lighthouse and associated buildings are currently used as a private summer home. Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. There are no service camp sites located around the island. Much of the race route is shaded by lush forests, while breezes off of Lake Superior help keep sunny stretches comfortably cool. Crooks estimated that 12 to 20 black bears lived on the island, which is eight miles long at its widest. Always allow the bear to have a clear and unobstructed escape route. Grand Island is a singletrack mountain bike trail in Munising, Michigan. The ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28, about 3 to 4 miles west of the Munising's blinking light. Their life, and yours, could depend on it. Make memories that will last a lifetime on Grand Island, one of Upper Michigans true hidden gems. Please respect private property signs. Enable Robust Exception Information to provide greater detail about the source of errors. The mosquitoes and black flies can be very bad from Mid-May to mid-July. Null Pointers are another name for undefined values. In 1990 the Forest Service purchased Grand Island from the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Co and it became part of the Hiawatha National Forest. 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