Marquette's Presque Isle is a Year-Round Adventureland
Presque Isle is one of Marquette’s main attractions that every visitor must visit when in town, even in the winter.
If I haven’t made it clear enough, Michigan is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. More specifically, the Upper Peninsula, has endless options of day and multi day activities to suit any adventurers needs.
Marquette, being the Upper Peninsulas largest city, has many hikes that make the trek here more than memorable. Presque Isle is one of those places that you must visit for it’s lovely scenery & memorable hiking options.
Best Things to do at Presque Isle, MI:
- Get up close and personal with wildlife
- Hiking
- Cliff Jumping at Blackrocks
- Surfing
- Kayaking
- Catch the Northern Lights
- Enjoy an unforgettable Marquette Sunset
Get up close & Personal with Wildlife
Wildlife is abundant when exploring Presque. Visitors regularly see deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds including Bald Eagles & Woodpeckers.
Presque Isle Hiking Trails
Families will love hiking here in Marquette and so will anyone who enjoys their share of the great outdoors.
There are 3 hiking routes to enjoy the Isle
- Exterior Coastal trail: This Marquette hike is roughly 2.2 miles and is well marked and maintained. The loop is a gold mine for photographers with the variety of landscapes, colors, and wildlife.
- Paved Loop Route: This is the car loop but many people hike this because it’s easy and straightforward. It runs adjacent to the exterior path but no coastline views
- Presque Interior: This path take you into the interior of the island with a plethora of trees and wildlife. Lovely in all seasons..
Black Rocks Cliff Jumping
Black Rocks is easily one of the best things to do in Marquette and a must explore section while at Presque. If you’re brave enough, take the 20-30 foot cliff jump into the cold waters of Lake Superior
This place gets VERY crowded on warm summer days but might be all yours when the snow starts too fall.
Add it to your Marquette Winter Experience list
Surfing at Presque Isle
One of the best places to surf in Marquette is here at “the Zoo”. Grab your board and read my guide about Great Lakes Surfing today!
Kayak around Presque's Rugged Shoreline
Marquette has a ton of lovely places to go kayaking but Presque is a great spot to begin with. Get your paddleboard or kayak and hit the water!
Catch the Northern Lights/Milky Way
Presque isn’t the best place to catch the aurora but if conditions are good and you don’t want to drive somewhere far away, consider heading out here.
Sunsets at Presque Isle are a Must Experience
If you want the best bang for your buck sunset in Marquette, head to the west side of the island and bring your camera. You’ll thank me later
How do I get too Presque?
Getting too Presque is very easy. Stay east on Lakeshore Boulevard for about 3 miles until you arrive! It only takes about 8 minutes from the heart of downtown to the state park
Presque Isle Park Hours and Crowds
Presque Isle is a very popular destination. The place can be a zoo at times so be conscious of when you decide to explore. Summer hours can be a nightmare while a fall or winter evening can be empty.
The driving loop closes during winter and is open daily from around sunrise to sunset hours
Presque Isle Marquette FAQ
Have any other questions about this must visit spot in Marquette? Here are some common ones that you might have stirring in your head
Are there bathrooms at Presque Isle Park?
There are bathrooms at Presque Isle attached to the gazebo “at the zoo”. They are open year round. Other bathrooms on the east end are not open year-round (winter).
Can I drive around Presque Isle?
Presque Isle allows visitors to drive around the isle from Spring-Fall. The paved road becomes a walking path/cross country ski trail in winter!
Cars are still welcome to drive to the zoo parking lot on the west end of the isle in winter!
Travel Marquette Like a Pro
Have you enjoyed the natural beauty of this area yet? If not, go now!
Need some other ideas for things to do in Marquette or the Lake Superior area?
Pictured Rocks Trip Guide for the best of the best
Need help planning? I also take visitors around the city to ensure they have the best Marquette experience.
Thanks for reading and hope to see you here or somewhere else in this world.