Get ready for a dazzling display. The forests of the Upper Peninsula have already started to blossom into brilliant hues of orange, yellow and red, and the color show will only get more breathtaking in the coming month. Want to see it for yourself? Here are four ways to enjoy this colorful season in the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon County.

Fall color drives

The fall colors in the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon County are some of the best in the Midwest, and one easy way to take in these beautiful vistas is by hopping in your car. There are several fall color routes to choose from in this scenic wonderland, but a fun half-day trip is the Ontonagon-Lake Superior Loop, which takes motorists on a circuit from Ontonagon to Silver City to Bergland to Bruce Crossing and back.

Hiking

If you want to get up close and personal with nature, take a hike through the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, home to one of the largest sections of old-growth forest in the Midwest. Hikers can explore nearly 90 miles of recreational trails that travel through scenic woods, past rushing waterfalls and along the shores of Lake Superior.

Biking

Did you know that the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon County are home to some great mountain biking trails? Hop on your bike and explore beautiful fall scenery on two wheels. Riders can traverse more than 20 miles of designated mountain bike trails in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, and the Ottawa National Forest is also open to mountain biking. Shorter routes can be found at local attractions like Adventure Mine and Copper Peak.

Fall color chairlift rides

Take in the Upper Peninsula’s amazing fall color from above. The Porcupine Mountains Ski Area offers chair lift rides on weekends throughout the fall color season, offering great views of the area’s old-growth forests and Lake Superior. Stay tuned to the state park’s Facebook page for the latest information.

At Copper Peak—about 10 miles north of Bessemer—you’ll find the highest unobstructed vista in the Midwest atop the world’s largest manmade ski jump. Copper Peak Adventure Ride, which is open in summer and fall, takes visitors on an 800-foot chairlift ride and up and 18-story elevator to a viewing platform that overlooks 2,500 square miles; on a clear day, you can see three states. Visit Copper Peak’s website for business hours and more info.

Planning a fall getaway? Book a stay at one of Ontonagon County’s welcoming lodging properties.