Can You See the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan?

If you’re a nature lover or an avid traveler, you’ve probably heard of the Northern Lights. This stunning natural phenomenon is a breathtaking display of vibrant colors that lights up the night sky. But can you see the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan? In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know to witness this awe-inspiring display of lights in Upper Michigan.

What Are the Northern Lights?

Before we delve into whether you can see the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan, let’s first understand what they are. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are natural lights that occur in the high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic.

In simple terms, it’s the collision of electrically charged particles from the sun that enters the Earth’s atmosphere, reacts with its gas particles, and emits a colorful glow. These collisions result in a range of colors, including green, pink, and purple, that light up the sky in an incredible display of colors.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan?

Upper Michigan is a popular travel destination for people looking to explore the Great Lakes, waterfalls, and beaches. While it’s not a destination that’s typically associated with the Northern Lights, there have been sightings in the past.

In theory, the Upper Michigan peninsula is far enough north to give you a chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. However, to increase your chances of seeing the lights, you should plan your visit around the winter solstice, which is during December or January. During this time, the nights are the longest, and the skies are the darkest, which makes it easier to see the Northern Lights.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan?

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan, you’ll need to head to the northernmost region of the state. The following are a few of the best places to go to see the lights:

1. Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor is an excellent place to see the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan. It’s located on the Keweenaw Peninsula and is known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty. During the winter months, the town is covered in snow, which provides a stunning backdrop to the Northern Lights display.

2. Marquette

Marquette is another popular destination to view the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan. This vibrant city is home to Northern Michigan University and offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. The city is located on the Lake Superior shoreline and provides a stunning view of the night sky.

3. Lake of the Clouds

Lake of the Clouds is a beautiful destination to see the Northern Lights. It’s located in the Porcupine Mountains and provides a breathtaking view of the night sky. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, which makes it the perfect spot for stargazing and catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

When Is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan?

While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights in Upper Michigan throughout the year, the best time to see them is during the winter months. The winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st, is the most favorable time to see the lights as the sky is darker for longer periods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it’s not the most popular destination to view the Northern Lights, Upper Michigan provides an opportunity to see this incredible natural phenomenon. With the right timing, location and a bit of luck, you can witness the Northern Lights in all their glory in Upper Michigan. We hope this blog post has given you some valuable insights on how to make the most of your Northern Lights viewing experience in Upper Michigan.

The Insider’s Guide to Marquette, Michigan

If you’re thinking about a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you may be wondering what it has to offer besides beautiful scenery. Some of the unique attractions and experiences that can make your trip unforgettable are hidden in plain sight. As a local, I have compiled a list of the area’s best-kept secrets to help you experience Marquette like a true insider.

Local Attractions: Exploring Marquette’s Best-Kept Secrets

Marquette’s iconic granite views and lakes create the ideal natural landscape for relaxation. While hiking to Sugarloaf Mountain and The Presque Isle Park are some of the area’s obvious choices, we recommend hiking the Little Garlic River or visiting the historic Iron Ore Heritage Trail. In addition, the Noquemanon Trail Network offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the region, while the City Forest offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Northern Michigan University Outdoor Recreational program, which offers rock climbing, kayaking, and many other seasonal activities.

Dining Spots: Savoring Marquette’s Unique Food Culture

Marquette has been influenced by many cultures, creating a unique blend of flavors exclusive to the Upper Peninsula. Start your day with a perfectly brewed coffee from Velodrome Coffee, which locals love. For appetizers, try out some authentic Finnish pasty—a meat-filled pastry found at the Michigan House Café, which has been serving the Upper Peninsula since 1906. For some local brews, visit Blackrocks Brewery, or head to the Ore Dock Brewing company for original craft beers and a great atmosphere. Finally, settle down and watch the sunset at the Landmark Inn’s Piedmont Restaurant, which serves some of the area’s best classic cocktails and farm-to-table cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Marquette’s History

Marquette has a deep sense of history that is celebrated through its architecture, museums, arts, and festivals. To get a flavor of the city’s culture, head to the Marquette Maritime Museum, which houses exhibits from 19th century shipwrecks. The Marquette Regional History Center is another great destination, showcasing artifacts from the city’s Indigenous past, mining and maritime history, Civil War and World War I, and even vintage Juicy Fruit chewing gum. During summers, the Outback Art Fair brings artists and crafters to the Lower Harbor for a jaunt in the open air, while in winter, the Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival held in Marquette is a must-attend event.

Local History: Unearthing Marquette’s Fascinating Past

Marquette is more than just a picturesque city on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—it has a history that spans beyond what meets the tourist’s eyes. It was a hub for the mining industry during the 19th century, which created a long-lasting impact on the city’s development and culture. The remnants of that history can be seen in the Heritage Trail and the Historic Forestville Site as well as in many ghost towns and deserted mining villages that can be explored. Marquette even has the first-ever indoor mall in Northern Michigan, the Westwood Mall, which was built in 1972 and houses over 50 stores.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discovering Marquette’s Best Kept Secrets

If you’re looking to explore a different side of Marquette, head out of the city and start your journey toward Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s Chapel Rock, which is only a little over an hour away. While there, take a Kayak to explore the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore by water, experience the only ski resort in the Upper Peninsula that provides night skiing, located at Marquette Mountain Ski Resort. Another hidden gem in the area is the Mount Shasta, which is a short drive from the city and provides excellent skiing and snowmobiling opportunities in the winter months.

Marquette may seem like your average Upper Peninsula city, but it has a lot to offer beyond what meets the eye. With these experiences, you’ll be able to explore Marquette like a true local. Use this insider’s guide to plan your trip and immerse yourself in the city’s unique attractions, local flavors, fascinating history, and unforgettable adventures.