Multi-colored sandstone cliffs rise out of Lake Superior

National Lakeshore · Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, sand dunes, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.

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Things to do

  • Auto and ATV
  • Scenic Driving
  • Astronomy
  • Stargazing
  • Biking
  • Road Biking
  • Boating
  • Motorized Boating
  • Jet Skiing
  • Boat Tour
  • Camping
  • Backcountry Camping
  • Canoe or Kayak Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Group Camping
  • RV Camping
  • Climbing
  • Ice Climbing
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Fly Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours

Weather & when to go

Summers are pleasant with the average highs in June, July, and August in the 70s°F, and lows in the low 50s°F. The coldest months are December through March with average highs of 25°F to 32°F, and average lows in the teens. Annual precipitation averages 31 inches; average annual snowfall is about 140 inches, although winters with more than 200 inches are not uncommon. Snow generally covers the ground from late November through late April.

Entrance fees

  • Entrance - Private Vehicle

    This pass admits the driver and all passengers in a private-use vehicle for seven consecutive days to all areas of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $25.00

  • Entrance - Motorcycle

    Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers to all areas of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $20.00

  • Entrance - Snowmobile

    This pass admits a snowmobile to all parts of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for 7 consecutive days. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $15.00

  • Entrance - Per Person

    This pass admits one walk-in, bicycle-in, or boat-in person to all parts of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $15.00

  • Commercial Entrance - Sedan

    This admits a commercial sedan to all areas of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The flat rate for this pass is $25, plus an additional $5 per person age 16+. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $25.00

  • Commercial Entrance - Van

    This pass admits a commercial van with a capacity of 7-16 persons, regardless of capacity, to all parts of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $40.00

  • Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus

    This fee admits a commercial mini-bus to all parts of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. A mini-bus is defined as a vehicle with a 16-25 person capacity. The fee is charged regardless of occupancy of the vehicle. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $40.00

  • Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach

    This fee applies to commercial vehicles with a 26+ person vehicle capacity, regardless of occupancy. This fee does not cover additional fees associated with activities such as camping or commercial tours.

    $100.00

Operating hours

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is open year-round, 24 hours a day, though most roads are closed by snow in the winter. Sand Point Road is the only park road plowed in winter.

Campgrounds

FAQ

How much does it cost to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Entrance to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore costs $25.00 (Entrance - Private Vehicle), $20.00 (Entrance - Motorcycle), $15.00 (Entrance - Snowmobile). The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry at every NPS site.
What are the hours at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is open year-round, 24 hours a day, though most roads are closed by snow in the winter. Sand Point Road is the only park road plowed in winter.
Do I need a reservation for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore?
No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.

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