Native American History and More in Copper Harbor, Michigan

October 8, 2009  |  posted by jimbowen1971

Copper Harbor, Michigan, takes its name from the copper deposits that early settlers to the area found on the beaches. While copper probably won't be found by today's visitors, there are plenty more reasons to come to the area including beautiful scenery, large amounts of game fish, and areas of historical interest. The small town of Copper Harbor is a nice, quiet resort for a relaxing week or weekend away from the stresses of modern life. AS the winters in this area can be quite rough most activities are summer only, except of course the snowmobile riding, ice fishing, and other winter sports.

Due to Copper Harbor's location near the point of a peninsula, there are numerous opportunities to explore the waters of Lake Superior. The Copper Harbor Lighthouse Tour includes about a 40 minute round trip boat ride to the lighthouse and a tour of the lighthouse. Trips are a little pricey, but the scenery is fantastic. Another opportunity to explore the waters of Lake Superior near Copper Harbor is provided by ferry to Isle Royale National Park. Cruises on the lake are also offered in the area.

During the summer months, visitors to the area can glimpse life in a mid 1800's copper mine. The Delaware Mine Tour provides the opportunity to go under ground and see the working conditions of the copper miners. The Delaware Mine Tour is located about 10 miles west of Copper Harbor off of US 41. For more copper mining history in the Copper Harbor area visit the Keweenaw National Historic Park near Calumet, MI. Keweenaw National Historic Park offers a self guided tour of the historic mining town.

The Astor House Antique Doll and Indian Artifact Museum is an interesting mix to keep the whole family happy and entertained. The museum contains displays of antique dolls, mining equipment, Civil War items, and Native American / Indian artifacts among other objects. The museum is open daily during the summer months.

Fort Wilkins State Park is located just east of Copper Harbor and provides both a place for recreation and history. Fort Wilkins dates from before the Civil War. Living history exhibits include soldiers in period dress displaying military life in that era. A museum holds collections of military and mining equipment. Boating, fishing, picnicking, camping, and more are available in Fort Wilkins State Park.

Copper Harbor is located at the northernmost part of Michigan. Access to the area is US Routes 45 and 141 from the south.

3: SARIG layer control - land-access [ parks and reserves ] by liam.jon_d

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