Presque Isle Park – Most Visited Park in Marquette, MI
Presque Isle is well-known for its natural beauty throughout the United States. It is located on the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Presque Isle Park is one of the most visited sites in Marquette County for a good reason. With the ease of access, this 323-acre forested peninsula extends into the water, offering visitors unmatched views of Lake Superior. Presque Isle Park receives special attention as Marquette’s recreational crown jewel. The park is a small, oval-shaped peninsula linked to Marquette by a narrow neck of land surrounded by sandstone cliffs. The park is home to approximately 100 native plant species and various habitats, including pebble beaches, rocky cliffs, bogs, and forests. Two picnic areas, concession facilities (the Island Store), hiking trails, playground facilities, three drinking fountains, open grassy areas, a historic wood band shell for concerts, two sets of restrooms (serving each picnic area), an open-air park shelter, and a custom-designed timber pavilion are among the Island’s significant facilities. Picnic tables and cooking amenities are available in the two large picnic spots. There are also numerous park benches in the park.
The park is located at the end of Lakeshore Boulevard and is easily accessible by bike path or automobile. The park is open year-round, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. in the spring, summer, and fall, and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the winter.
Summer, 1891. Fredrick Law Olmsted, a landscape architect most famous for his role in designing New York City’s Central Park, visits Marquette to work on a design project. To make the most of the visit, the city also directs him to a large peninsula just north of town in hopes of designing a management plan to turn it into a suitable park. Upon touring the land, he gives the city relatively straightforward advice that can be summed up in three words: Don’t touch it.
This park is a popular area to walk and take in the scenery. Blackrock is a one-of-a-kind spot. There is always the possibility of spotting wildlife. If you are short on time, drive through rather than walk; it is well worth it. A two-mile round trip provides you with an authentic Northwoods experience.
Nearby Attractions
1.Black Rocks
Black Rocks are undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Marquette and a must-see section of Presque Isle. It highlights the area where you can jump off the cliffs into Lake Superior. The road continues through a tunnel of pines and hardwoods, with glimpses of Lake Superior enticing the cyclist. If your ride has you sweating, pull over at Blackrocks and jump in. This ancient rock formation has become a Marquette landmark. Visitors can relax in the fresh lake breeze or jump off the cliffs into the crystal clear water below. This location can get very crowded on hot summer days, but it could be all yours once the snow falls.
2.Sunset Point
Sunset Point, located on the peninsula’s western shore, is one of the most incredible places in Marquette to watch the sun set below the horizon. The Huron Mountains and many small islands, silhouetted against a pink and orange sky, provide an almost tropical scene. The lake reflects all of the colors of the sky, creating a spectacular sunset.
3.Picnic Rocks
Picnic Rocks is well-known among locals and travelers alike as the ideal stop on the way to Presque Isle. There are white sand beaches on both sides of the black rocks. Not to mention the reason most people visit- the breathtaking lake views. If you need to stretch your legs, here is the place to go!
Nearby things to do
1.Biking
Presque Isle is a must-see destination for its beautiful scenery and fantastic hiking opportunities. Miles of hiking trails wind through Presque Isle’s forest area, home to over 100 kinds of natural flora and wildlife. The peninsula has even been home to a friendly (and rare) white-tailed deer population. Presque Isle is also a destination for many migrating birds, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a snowy owl. Read out more information about hiking in Marquette here.
2.Hiking
Presque Isle is a must-see destination for its beautiful scenery and fantastic hiking opportunities. Miles of hiking trails wind through Presque Isle’s forest area, home to over 100 kinds of natural flora and wildlife. The peninsula has even been home to a friendly (and rare) white-tailed deer population. Presque Isle is also a destination for many migrating birds, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a snowy owl. Read out more information about hiking in Marquette here.
3.Fishing
There are various places in the park where you can go fishing. As with most other fishing places in the city, fishermen focus on catching native lake whitefish, lake trout, and brook trout that were introduced for sport fishing in the spring and fall. Most of the park’s man-made facilities are situated near the entrance (a narrow area of land connecting the park to the mainland). Despite the seeming abundance of facilities indicated above, the majority of the Island has been left undeveloped to maintain its natural beauty. Check out our ultimate fishing guide here.
4.Kayaking
Presque Isle Park is one of Marquette County’s most popular locations for a good reason. The two-hour trip provides stunning views of Lake Superior, Presque Isle Park, and the Marquette shoreline. There are numerous stunning bluffs, rocks, and little caves – clear, crystal blue, or green water with every stone visible even at depths of 30 feet. We recommend going kayaking in the evenings to see the stunning sunsets over the hills and forests west of the city. Reach out to Marquette recreational tours for a Kayaking tour experience.
Walking Hours
How to get there from Superior Stay Hotel?
The hotel is near downtown Marquette, UP Health System, Northern Michigan University, and the premier businesses. The leisure traveler will find a beautiful sandy beach just across the road from the hotel and biking, golf, snow sports, and endless miles of hiking trails.
