Legendary Drives

Michigan #2
Copper Harbor Scenic Highway

This 27-mile scenic drive through part of the Keweenaw Peninsula offers the beauty of the Michigan countryside and the luxury of an all-weather, black-topped and well-maintained highway. Starting in the town of Phoenix, this gorgeous stretch of U.S. 41 takes you through a number of historic, natural, recreational and scenic sites. Along this route you will find an original 1850s General Store, an underground copper mine tour and two roadside parks that offer a nice perching area for viewing the beautiful surroundings.

About midway through the trip you'll experience an 11-mile stretch of road generally referred to as "the tunnel," since its heavy overgrowth covers the sky. Copper Harbor is the last stop on this route and offers a variety of activities, sights and sounds. There are two parks in the vicinity of Copper Harbor: Fort Wilkins State Park and Isle Royale National Park, which can be reached by ferry and provide an opportunity to marvel at the vast wilderness of the Keweenaw Peninsula and surrounding waters. Pay a visit to the Copper Harbor Lighthouse or make this trip last over the weekend with a stay at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, which includes a motel, restaurant and a nine-hole golf course.

Starting Point:
Phoenix, MI

Distance of Drive:
27-mile stretch of U.S. Hwy. 41

Must Eat:
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge
U.S. Hwy 41, Copper Harbor, MI 49918
Phone: 906-289-4403
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.

Best Time of Year for Drive:
Road is well maintained, so the drive is nice anytime of year.

Points of Interest on Drive:
General Store
Ft. Wilkins State Park
Copper Harbor Lighthouse