After a hotel breakfast we left Houghton and made our way towards Porcupine Mountains. Also known as the Porkies, it features 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, Lake Superior shoreline, rivers, trails and ridges.
Our first stop was an hour and a half to Lake of the Clouds. Lake of the Clouds is a quick 0.3 mile walk from the parking lot.
It was a cool little spot.. I think it would have been stunning in the fall.
Next we headed to the Summit Peak Trail. It was a 1 mile round trip that involved many many stairs. It is the quickest way to reach the highest point in the Porcupine Mountains, reaching an elevation of 1,958 feet.
The American cancer root, a non-photosynthesizing parasitic perennial plant that attaches to the roots of host trees like oaks (especially red oaks) and occasionally beech trees to siphon water and nutrients.
Looking down from the top of the tower.
The view from the top was fine.. I think the colors of fall would have made it spectacular but right now it was just a vast expanse of green. I mean we didn't even that a picture.
But there were plenty of mushrooms to explore.
Our last stop was the Presque Isle River Waterfall Loop - it was 2.3 miles long and included a suspension bridge.
The trail was a mix of woods, boardwalk and stairs. The waterfalls were not in their peak but they must be quite the sight during the spring months.
There were a total of three waterfalls, Manabezho Falls, named after the Ojibway god. Manido Falls, meaning spirit or ghost and Nawadaha Falls meaning in the midst of rapids.
Because the water levels were so low we were easily able to walk onto the rocks and explore.
so so many cool mushrooms!!
an American toad!
We returned to our hotel got cleaned up and headed to the restaurant across the street. When we returned the sun was setting on the lake..
We are nearing the end of our trip.. tomorrow we start to head back towards home.. but not before a few more stops along the way.
Comments
rkrsrue.blogspot.com
We are just starting to turn here in Wisconsin. So far the colors are beautiful, a lot of orange and reds.
I have enjoyed reading about how you enjoyed an area of the world I love.
xo
All the fungi is good to look at too and a sweet photo of your all.
Take care.
Ash @ Essentially Ash
what a beautiful day in the Porkies! Lake of the Clouds is lovely even in green, although I can easily imagine how spectacular that view must be when the autumn colours arrive.
What I enjoy so much about your family trips is that there always seems to be something to discover along the way. If the waterfalls have less water than expected, there are rocks to explore. If the landscape is still mostly green, there are fascinating plants, wonderful mushrooms and even a little toad waiting to be noticed. I think that curiosity makes a journey so much more enjoyable.
I was especially fascinated by the American cancer-root. A plant that does not photosynthesize at all but gets what it needs from the roots of trees is quite extraordinary. I had never heard of it before.
The waterfall trail looks like a wonderful walk, especially with the forest paths, boardwalks and suspension bridge. And ending such a full day with the sun setting over the lake seems just about perfect.
I am a little sorry that your journey is already coming to an end. I have really enjoyed travelling along with your family through your posts. But I see you still have a few stops left for us before you head home!
Warm greetings,
Anette