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Michigan
23

Michigan State Parks

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USA Parks
Michigan
Upper Peninsula Region
Iron Range State Forest
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IRON RANGE STATE FOREST
IRON RANGE STATE FOREST
The Iron Range State Forest, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is a pristine and enchanting woodland that spans approximately 22,000 acres. This stunning forest encompasses a diverse landscape of towering trees, sparkling lakes, and rolling hills, creating an idyllic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. With its extensive trail system, visitors can explore the forest's breathtaking beauty by hiking, biking, or horseback riding, while also enjoying opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping along its tranquil lakeshores. Additionally, the Iron Range State Forest provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, as it is teeming with a variety of native species that call this enchanting wilderness their home. Whether seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a connection with nature, the Iron Range State Forest offers an unforgettable experience that captures the captivating allure of Michigan's natural wonders.
History of the Area
Iron Range State Forest is a state forest located in northeastern Minnesota, not Michigan. However, if you are referring to Iron Range State Park, there is no specific park with that name in Michigan either. Nevertheless, if you are interested in learning about the history of the Iron Range region in Michigan, here is a brief overview:

The Iron Range in Michigan refers to a geological formation that runs through the Upper Peninsula of the state. It is known for its vast deposits of iron ore, which have played a significant role in shaping Michigan's history and economy.

The discovery of iron ore in the region dates back to the 1840s, but significant mining operations did not commence until the late 1860s. The development of the railroad network and the opening of the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie in 1855 further facilitated the transportation of iron ore from the Upper Peninsula to markets in the United States.

The opening of iron mines in places like Ishpeming, Negaunee, and Marquette led to a rapid growth of the mining industry, attracting thousands of immigrants, predominantly from Finland, Sweden, and Italy, to work in the mines. These immigrant communities played a vital role in the development of the Iron Range's culture and heritage.

During its peak production years in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Iron Range was the leading iron ore producer in the United States. However, the industry experienced a decline in the mid-20th century due to a variety of factors, including the depletion of high-grade iron ore reserves and increased competition from foreign producers.

The Iron Range region in Michigan continues to have some active iron mines, although at a much smaller scale than in the past. The mining heritage of the area is preserved in various historical sites and museums, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's history and the lives of the people who worked in the mines.

Although there is no specific Iron Range State Forest or Park in Michigan, the state does have numerous state forests and parks that showcase the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Upper Peninsula. Some examples include Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, and the Hiawatha National Forest.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
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Location
Iron Range State Forest is located near Iron Mountain

Trails
1. Red Top Loop: This 4-mile trail is perfect for beginners and offers a gentle hike through the forest with beautiful views of surrounding lakes.

2. Lookout Mountain Trail: A moderate, 3-mile round trip that takes you to an overlook providing stunning panoramic views of the Iron Range State Forest.

3. Beaver Lake Trail: An easy, flat walk around Beaver Lake offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as beavers and waterfowl in their natural habitat.

4. Miner's Pathway Hiking Route: A challenging but rewarding route spanning over 20 miles which passes by several historic mining sites within the state forest area.

5. Moose River Walking Track: This track follows along moose river giving hikers plenty of chances to see local fauna like deer or even moose if they're lucky enough!

6. Iron Ore Heritage Trail - Marquette County Segment: A multi-use rail-trail stretching across Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula from Republic Township westward towards Chocolay Charter Township near Marquette city limits.

7. Pigeon Creek Park Trails: A network consisting more than ten miles trails suitable for hiking during summer months & cross-country skiing when winter arrives.

8. Superior Shoreline Walk - Presque Isle Section: The path winds its way alongside Superior lake shoreline featuring rocky outcrops, sandy beaches plus dense woodland areas.

9. Black River Harbor Recreation Area Paths: Nestled on western edge this park features five major waterfalls each accessible via short hikes off main road leading into recreation zone.

10. Harlow Lake Recreational System: Hike up Hogback mountain peak get rewarded breathtaking vistas entire region including Huron mountains range beyond it.

11. Michigamme Highlands Backcountry Trekking Routes: Dominated rolling hills mixed hardwood forests these remote routes provide solitude experienced backpackers seeking escape crowds typical tourist spots.

12. Yellow Dog Plains Wilderness Tracks: Largely untouched wilderness home numerous endangered species flora fauna these tracks offer unique opportunity explore Michigan's biodiversity up close personal.

13. Sugarloaf Mountain Trail: A short but steep hike that leads to an observation deck with panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest.

14. Wetmore Pond Nature Trails: A series interconnected trails around Wetmore pond offering easy walks through diverse habitats including wetlands, meadows forests.

15. Echo Lake Loop: A 3-mile loop trail circling Echo lake providing scenic water views, opportunities for bird watching fishing along way.

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Area Campgrounds
Summer Breeze Campground
W8576 Twin Falls Road
Iron Mountain, MI
906-774-7701

Directions
The Iron Range State Forest is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. To get there from Detroit, you will need to take I-75 North towards Mackinaw City. Continue on this highway until you reach St Ignace, where you can cross the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula.

Once across the bridge, continue driving north on US-2 for approximately 60 miles until reaching Escanaba. In Escanaba, turn left onto M-35 and follow it for about 45 miles until reaching Gwinn.

In Gwinn, turn right onto County Road KI (also known as Division Street) and drive eastward for around 8 miles before turning left onto Sand Lake Road/County Rd AAAA. Follow this road for another mile or so before taking a slight right onto CR-AF/Sand River Truck Trail.

Continue along CR-AF/Sand River Truck Trail for approximately 10 more miles until arriving at your destination - Iron Range State Forest!

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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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