Michigan #1
Black River Scenic Byway

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers a variety of remote and rugged scenic drives through the harbor cities along Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. The most popular and fulfilling of them all is the Black River Scenic Byway, which is recognized as a National Scenic Byway in the beautiful state of Michigan. This breathtaking drive begins on County Road 513 near the town of Bessemer at its intersection with County Road 204 (Airport Road) and continues north for 12 miles following the Black River through dense areas of pine, hemlock and hardwood trees to Black River Harbor. Black River Harbor Road will take you past several Points of Interest along the way. During the winter months, stop off at Big Powderhorn Mountain Village for some great skiing, or tempt your daredevil side with the largest ski jump in the Northern Hemisphere at Copper Peak. The beauty of the North Country Hiking Trail will dazzle warmer weather adventurers. The area includes a series of five scenic waterfalls and vistas that provide a unique opportunity to view the river and the falls as they plummet to join Lake Superior. Horse lovers can visit the Royal Palm Ranch equestrian school and eventually you can make your way up to the Black River Harbor, a unique harbor with beautiful stretches of Lake Superior beaches, a wooden suspension bridge, and a modern campground facility that will satisfy even the most domesticated family.

Starting Point:
Bessemer, MI

Distance of Drive:
12 miles

Must Eat:
Kinda Kountry Kafe
1002 East Lead St., Bessemer, MI 49911
Phone:   906-667-0725
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.  

Best Time of Year for Drive:
Any season is good for this drive, but winter driving conditions can be challenging. Summer and winter are the busiest seasons.

Points of Interest on Drive:
Big Powderhorn Mountain Village
Copper Peak
North Country Hiking Trail
Black River Harbor and Lake Superior
(All are within the Ottawa National Forest)

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