Fresh Lives Here: Fresh Vibes in the Upper Peninsula
Running a kayaking company that’s dictated by the seasons and weather conditions, Deidre Phillipson is used to going with the flow – which is especially important when navigating the geological wonder of one of Michigan’s most iconic lakeshores that changes every year.
Centuries of erosion from wind, ice and waves have carved out massive sandstone cliffs that rise up from Lake Superior, streaked with colorful minerals that earned them the name Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. While boat cruises from Munising have long been a popular way to view the famous cliffs, kayaking takes this experience to a whole different level.
Pictured Rocks Kayaking is the only outfitter permitted to do offshore launches within this protected area. You’ll enter the water off the back of the boat from a specialized kayak ramp. “We don’t actually touch the ground,” says Phillipson. “The only thing we’re touching are the rocks themselves when we paddle up close.”
The cliffs stretch for more than 15 miles and are shaped by arches, sea caves and dramatic rock formations. It’s one of only four national lakeshores protected by the National Park Service, and encompasses not only the striated cliffs but also 12 miles of beautiful beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, lighthouses and trails.
The experience is designed for both outdoor devotees and those who might not be as comfortable outside. Even if you have zero experience in a kayak, “We got you,” says Phillipson. “Not only have I taken people who have no experience, but there are people who are terrified; we have guides who are very experienced and will give that extra bit of love if needed.”
Get tips for first-time paddlers at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Among over a dozen highlights on a kayaking tour of the lakeshore, Lovers Leap is one of the most photographed sights along the way – streaked with colors that glow spectacularly in the evening. Grand Portal Point is a captivating sight, rising 300 feet above the lake’s surface.
When she’s not on the water, Phillipson – who was born and raised in Munising in the Upper Peninsula – has some favorite local haunts to share.
Learn more points of interest around Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
In Town
“Places have changed over the years, but there are spots like the Dogpatch Restaurant that have been around since I was a kid. The marina in Munising is also a great place to hang around for a couple of hours, and in summertime they host free concerts. We have that special small-town vibe.”
And All Around
“You’d be astounded by the amount of waterfalls around the Upper Peninsula. Munising has a waterfalls map, which is just awesome.”
Day Trips
“You can reach Grand Marais on a paved road along the lakeshore, which is absolutely gorgeous. What should be a 45-minute drive can take a couple of hours because there are so many little beaches and places to stop and check out, and the town itself is a lot of fun to explore.
“Marquette is an awesome college town, with lots of restaurants, bars, breweries and coffee shops to choose from, and it’s developed an amazing mountain biking scene.”
And Longer Trips
“You can keep going up to areas like Calumet and Houghton, and if you go to the top of Brockway Mountain you can look out over the whole Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It’s just an experience to be here.”