Location: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
One of the most iconic views of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Miners Castle offers visitors stunning views and a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
A short walk from the parking area brings visitors to the first overlook. It’s hard to really understand how vast this rocky formation is from above. The many caves and arches look like tiny dents.
Miners Castle is made up of numerous layers of sandstone and stained by minerals as they leech from the water into the layers of rock. Blue and green stains are from copper, black is from manganese, and yellow, red, and orange are from iron.
Following a paved trail, visitors can get up close to Miners Castle. The lower overlook sits on top of the cliff, about 200 feet above lake level. Use caution and stay within the fenced in areas. While the cliffs might seem stable, they aren’t and any part can break off at any time.
In 2006, one of the main “turrets” crashed into Lake Superior, changing the face of Miners Castle entirely. Major rock collapses like these are common along the shoreline.
If you have the time, continue on the trail at the parking area to visit Miners Beach. This beach stretches nearly a mile long and has access to Miners River and Miners Lake.
Getting There
Miners Castle is the easiest rock formation to access within the park. It is located about 5 miles east of Munising on County Road H-58. From Munising, turn left onto Miners Castle Road and continue for another 6 miles.