The Best Hiking and biking adventures in Portage, Michigan

Welcome to Nara Chalet and Interpretive Center, your gateway to exploring the natural beauty of Houghton, Michigan. Nestled at 501 Nara Loop, our 100-acre Nara Nature Park is a cherished gift from Bob and Ruth Nara to the City of Houghton, offering a serene escape just two miles east of the Michigan Tech University campus. This lush haven connects seamlessly with the extensive Michigan Tech trail system, providing over 50 miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. Discover the tranquility of the Pilgrim River from our 4,500-foot elevated boardwalk, complete with fishing sites, benches, and convenient kayak and canoe launch access. After the historic 2018 thunderstorm, our boardwalks were meticulously rebuilt to meet modern accessibility standards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Welcome to Portage Township Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Houghton, Michigan. Located in the scenic Upper Peninsula, our park offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its lush greenery, well-maintained trails, and picturesque landscapes, Portage Township Park provides a perfect setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and family gatherings. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to bird watching and photography. Our park is equipped with convenient amenities, including picnic tables, benches, and clean restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or seeking a beautiful backdrop for your next adventure, Portage Township Park is the ideal destination.

Nara Nature Park is a picturesque 100-acre nature park located in Houghton, Michigan, just two miles east of the Michigan Tech University campus. Donated to the city by Bob and Ruth Nara, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing on over 50 miles of interconnected trails. The park also features a beautiful boardwalk along the Pilgrim River, perfect for fishing, launching kayaks and canoes, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. After a historic thunderstorm caused damage to the wetland boardwalk system in 2018, the city worked with FEMA to rebuild and upgrade the boardwalks to current accessibility standards. The newly constructed boardwalks now feature improved stability and durability, ensuring visitors can enjoy the wetland areas safely.

Oakland Drive Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 7650 Oakland Drive in Portage, Michigan, United States. This 18-acre park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors looking to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for relaxing or playing sports. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Oakland Drive Park is the ideal destination for a day of fun and recreation for individuals and families alike.

Uncle Jib's Ski & Kayak Shop is a premier outdoor sports store located at 626 Romence Road in Portage, Michigan. Specializing in ski and kayak equipment, Uncle Jib's offers a wide selection of top-quality gear for all skill levels. Whether you're hitting the slopes or paddling down a river, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect equipment for your next adventure. Visit Uncle Jib's Ski & Kayak Shop for all your outdoor sporting needs in the beautiful state of Michigan.

Welcome to Nara River Boardwalk South Trails, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Houghton, Michigan. Located at 47331 U.S. 41, our park is a 100-acre natural haven generously donated to the City of Houghton by Bob and Ruth Nara. Just two miles east of the Michigan Tech University campus, our park is the eastern gateway to the Houghton Waterfront Trail and connects seamlessly with the extensive Michigan Tech trail system, offering over 50 miles of trails for hiking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. Explore the Nara Nature Trail Boardwalk, an impressive 4,500-foot elevated wooden pathway that meanders along the picturesque Pilgrim River. Enjoy fishing spots, cozy benches, and easy access for launching kayaks and canoes as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The boardwalk underwent significant renovations in 2020, ensuring accessibility for all visitors with modernized features like regrading, widened paths, and sturdy railings.

Welcome to the Nara River Boardwalk Parking Lot, your gateway to the beautiful Nara Nature Park! Conveniently located at 47331 U.S. 41, Houghton, Michigan, our parking facility provides easy access to a stunning 100-acre nature park. Donated to the City of Houghton by Bob and Ruth Nara, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vast network of over 50 miles of trails perfect for hiking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. The Nara Nature Park is seamlessly connected to the Michigan Tech University trail system, ensuring an expansive adventure through lush wooded areas. One of the park's highlights is the Nara Nature Trail Boardwalk, a 4,500-foot elevated wooden boardwalk that runs along both banks of the picturesque Pilgrim River. Enjoy fishing, relaxing on benches, or launching your kayak or canoe from this well-maintained boardwalk.

Welcome to Nara River Boardwalk North Trails, a serene oasis located within the Nara Nature Park in Houghton, Michigan. Spanning 100 acres, this picturesque park was generously donated to the City of Houghton by Bob and Ruth Nara. Nestled just two miles east of the Michigan Tech University campus, the park sits at the eastern end of the Houghton Waterfront Trail, seamlessly connecting to the extensive Michigan Tech University trail system. At Nara River Boardwalk North Trails, you'll discover over 50 miles of interconnected trails perfect for hiking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. The highlight of the park is the 4,500-foot-long elevated wooden boardwalk that elegantly follows the banks of the Pilgrim River. This boardwalk not only offers scenic views but also features fishing sites, benches, and convenient access for launching kayaks and canoes.

Welcome to Bliss Shores Campground, your serene escape nestled in the heart of Michigan’s stunning Upper Peninsula. Located at 50679 State Hwy M203 in Hancock, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. At Bliss Shores Campground, you'll find a variety of lodging options to suit your needs, from spacious campsites to cozy cabins. Surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views, our park provides a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, our friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring your stay is comfortable and memorable.