Copper Harbor
Copper Harbor is the northernmost city in Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula.
Get in
By car
Copper Harbor is just short of the northeastern tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula and the end of US-41 (from Miami). Take either US-41 or M-26 north from Houghton-Hancock; the two routes share roadway part of the way, with the state road taking a couple of detours. When they split at the crossroads of Phoenix (about 8 miles north of Ahmeek), you have your choice of routes: M-26 meanders along the Superior shoreline, US-41 "tunnels" through a lovely canopy of trees, and Brockway Mountain Drive (accessible at Eagle Harbor from M-26) follows a ridgeline and offers some great views (but is not plowed in winter and has some very steep grades).
By boat
The city is on a harbor of course, but the only commercial service is to and from Isle Royale National Park.
Get around
The city is clustered around the harbor, with most places within easy walking distance. Bicycles or cars will get you further afield.
See
- Fort Wilkins was first established by the United States in 1843-44, purportedly, to protect the local Copper Miners from the local Indians. Abandoned around the time of the Mexican War, the post was regarissoned following the Civil War, though, it was subsequently permanently abandoned in about 1870. Much of the fort is intact (with some reconstruction) and forms the centerpiece of the eponymous state park.
- US-41 Terminus - Ever wonder what a highway looks like when it just ends? Continue on US-41 north through the town, just past the state park, to the cul-du-sac that marks the northern end-point of a highway that begins in far-off Miami. It's underwhelming... which is part of why it's worth spending the few extra minutes it takes to get there.
- 1 Copper Harbor Light. Historic lighthouse and has a maritime museum which is open in the summer.
Do
There's a series of trails in the hills outside of town, suitable for hiking and some for all-terrain biking.
Buy
There are many local artisan shops and antique stores on the main drag in Copper Harbor, as well as a general store and several fun souvenir shops.
- The Laughing Loon, 242 1st St, ☏ +1 906 289-4813.
- North One Gallery, 971 Gratiot Street, ☏ +1 906 6828, margaret@northonegallery.com.
- [dead link] Traprock Pottery, 184 Bernard. Open seasonally in the backyard of this address, accessible from 2nd street. May be a little hidden by lilacs and cedars. Checks and cash.
Eat
- Harbor Haus Restaurant, 77 Brockway Ave, ☏ +1 906 289-4502. American German Restaurant. Superior German standards, fish, steaks. Closed in winter.
- Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, 14252 US Hwy 41, ☏ +1 906 289-4403.
- Jamsen's Fish Market & Bakery, 4 Waterfront Landing, ☏ +1 906 289-4000.
Drink
- Ziks' Bar (in The Pines resort).
- The Mariner North.
- Brickside Brewery, ☏ +1 906 289-4772.
Sleep
Lodging
Camping
- Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground.
- Fort Wilkins State Park. Two campgrounds suitable for vehicles and tents, on Lake Fanny Hooe.
Go next
Copper Harbor is one of the main gateways to Isle Royale National Park over the horizon in Lake Superior. The Keweenaw Peninsula itself is host to a plethora of hiking, biking, fishing, or skiing opportunities.
| Routes through Copper Harbor |
| END ← | N  S |
→ Houghton → Marquette |