The Small Town Lake In Michigan That's An Idyllic Summer Day Trip
By Trent Jonas|Published June 23, 2023
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Trent Jonas
Author
Trent Jonas came to Minnesota to attend college - and never left. He's a Twin Cities-based writer with a BA in English and a MFA in creative writing, a Minnesota Master Naturalist, and the proud father of two adult children. With more than a decade of freelance writing experience under his belt, Trent is often out exploring his favorite topics: Minnesota's woods, lakes, and trails. Rhubarb pie is his weakness, so discovering new diners is also a passion.
If you’re looking for a lake experience in Michigan that’s a little farther from the madding crowds, head for Lake Gogebic on the Upper Peninsula. This rustic Michigan lake is surrounded by a national forest, and there are only a few tiny communities along its shores. It’s a great place to spend a day… or more. Let’s check it out!
Lake Gogebic is the largest inland lake on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Surrounded by the Ottawa National Forest, the only real communities near the lake are small towns, like Merriweather and Bergland on the north end and White City at the southern tip of the lake.
You can also access the lake from a couple of park's along the shore.
On the west shore, near the northern end, Ontonagon County Park is a great place for a picnic, or to launch if you're an angler or paddler - or just want to spend a day near the lake. There's even camping available if you want to linger in the area.
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For a drink or a quick bite, pop into the Hoop'n Holler Tavern in Merriweather.
The park stretches along the lake, offering more than a mile of beach access, as well as a nature trail that leads into the adjacent Ottawa National Forest.
Lake Gogebic State Park, N9995 State Highway M64, Marenisco, MI 49947, USA
The falls are clearly marked and easily accessible. And who doesn't want to see a waterfall on a day trip?
We don’t think you’ll be disappointed with a day trip to Lake Gogebic, where you can enjoy some peace with far fewer fellow tourists. You can get even further off the grid with a visit to nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
Have you visited Lake Gogebic? Tell us about your experience in the comments.
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