One of Michigan’s best overlooks is just a short drive from the city of Marquette in the Upper Peninsula. Only six miles away from Marquette’s craft breweries, trendy restaurants, and museums is Sugarloaf Mountain, a 470-foot granite peak right off the shores of Lake Superior. A short, well-maintained hike is all that stands between the parking lot and one of the most picturesque spots in the Great Lakes.
On this loop trail, there is a ‘difficult’ direction and an ‘easy’ direction marked out on the map. Both will require some stairs and stepping around rocks and roots, though the ‘easy’ side of the loop is not quite as steep. Neither option is terribly difficult.
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Though the view at the top is the main attraction, don’t discount the gorgeous forest below the summit, with hundred-year-old trees creating a thick canopy.
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Like much of the Upper Peninsula, this trail is a great choice for some fall color peeping.
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Most people take approximately 15 minutes to hike the half-mile to the summit, though be prepared for some stairs. Because of the elevation gain, either side of the loop trail is considered a moderately difficult hike.
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As you approach the summit, the trail passes impressive rock formations.
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There are three observation decks on this outlook, letting hikers soak in the panoramic view from three distinct viewpoints. Marvel at Lake Superior, the city of Marquette nearby, or the forest and hills to the south.
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Of course, this is an absolutely stunning view at sunset. Try to time your hike with the setting sun. Don’t forget to check the forecast for the northern lights; sometimes you can see them from this overlook!
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From the parking lot to the outlook and back is a total of approximately 1 mile. Look for the Sugarloaf Mountain sign off of CR 550 for the parking lot. You can learn more about the trail and what else to do in the area here.
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Have you visited Sugarloaf Mountain? In which season did you see it? What are some of your other favorite hikes in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan? Let us know in the comments.
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Address: Sugarloaf Mountain, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
