St. Ignace, Michigan: A Unique Escape for Adventure Seekers
For Canadian outdoor enthusiasts craving fresh air, rugged landscapes and an itinerary that ventures into the under populated wilderness, St. Ignace, Michigan, offers serene paddling and hiking trails. Tucked away on the northern edge of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this charming lakeside town is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination brimming with adventure. Whether you’re eager to explore unspoiled waters or yearning for trails less travelled, St. Ignace provides a unique multi-day experience that will have you wondering why you hadn’t crossed the border sooner.
Paddle Into the Unknown
St. Ignace’s immaculate waterways extend far beyond the shores of Lake Huron. For a paddling adventure that feels truly undiscovered, set your sights on Brevort Lake, a vast inland waterway surrounded by towering pines and wildlife-rich marshlands. Here, you can glide across 11 kilometres of glassy waters with rarely another soul in sight. Keep an eye out for loons, otters and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead. The lake’s numerous inlets and hidden coves provide the perfect escape for those seeking solitude and an intimate connection with nature.
For an even more off-the-grid experience, paddle the Carp River, a winding waterway that cuts through dense forests and offers a remote, almost mystical atmosphere. This undeveloped and scenic waterway is ideal for adventurers looking to challenge themselves against gentle rapids and sharp turns all while being enveloped by Michigan’s untouched wilderness. Sunset paddles here are particularly breathtaking, with golden light filtering through the trees and reflecting off the calm water. Designated as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System since 1992, the Carp River offers multiple entry points—check a detailed map to plan your route.
Hike Where Few Have Gone
While many visitors flock to popular trails like The North Country Trail (Castle Rock Trail Head), those in search of true adventure should head to the Cut River Gorge. Explore this 1.9-kilometre out-and-back trail. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it is a rugged and rewarding hike through a steep gorge carved by the Cut River. The trail leads through dense hardwood forests, across scenic footbridges and down to a secluded beach with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The raw beauty of this place coupled with its relative obscurity makes it a must-visit for those who want to escape the crowds.
The Bush Bay Hiking Trail, also known as the Narnia Trail, is a family-friendly hike near Cedarville, Michigan, just 50km from St. Ignace. This scenic trail at the tip of Lake Huron offers stunning views of the Les Cheneaux Islands, moss-covered rocks, unique boulders and forested paths along the lake. Inspired by The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, it provides a fairy-tale-like atmosphere perfect for sparking the imagination of both kids and adults.
Unique Finds
Visit Gros Cap, a windswept shoreline located just minutes from town, offering dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops that rival any coastline in North America. This secluded spot is perfect for rock scrambling, tidepool exploring or simply watching the waves crash against the rugged shore.
Learn about the history and culture of the first peoples on this land at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture. This small yet fascinating museum provides an immersive look at the region’s Indigenous history with authentic artifacts, traditional wigwams and stories of the Anishinaabe people who have called this land home for centuries. A visit here offers a deep connection to the land and culture that makes St. Ignace truly special. Museum exhibits show Ojibwa culture and traditions, the French contact period and the site’s rich archaeology. Outdoor exhibits and a long house explain Huron life here and you are invited to pay your respects at the burial site of Father Jacques Marquette, explorer and Jesuit priest who founded St. Ignace. Admission is by donation and opens seasonally from May 26th to Oct 31st.
A Culinary Adventure
Refuel with some of the region’s culinary delights. Head to Java Joe’s Café, a quirky locally loved breakfast spot offering homemade cinnamon rolls and legendary stuffed French toast. For a more adventurous meal, visit The Driftwood, a rustic bar and grill tucked along the waterfront that serves up fresh-caught whitefish with a laid-back vibe and a killer sunset view.
And don’t leave without trying a “Yooper Bar” at one of the town’s tiny roadside markets—a sweet dense treat with local nuts, berries and maple syrup that packs the energy you’ll need for the next trail.
St. Ignace is just under an hour’s drive south from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Pack your gear, lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an unforgettable journey into Michigan’s wild and wonderful Upper Peninsula.
St. Ignace is ready—are you?
This article was sponsored by St. Ignace
Make St. Ignace Your Home Port for a memorable Mackinac Getaway and discover all there is to do. We offer many unique attractions, a seasonal farmers market, amazing shopping and dining, exciting day trips, cruises and charters in the Straits of Mackinac and Ferry service to Mackinac Island.
