Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Copper Peak
★4.8(829 reviews)$Sports
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Younger children may find the chairlift intimidating, but school-age kids and teens will love the adventure and scenic views. Winter skiing is suitable for beginners through advanced levels with appropriate lessons.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Copper Peak offers families a unique four-season adventure in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. In winter, kids can experience skiing and snow sports, while summer brings thrilling chairlift rides to breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across three states. The combination of outdoor recreation, stunning scenery, and seasonal activities makes this an unforgettable destination for active families.
Highlights
- ✓Scenic chairlift rides with views of three states and Lake Superior
- ✓Family-friendly skiing and snow sports in winter
- ✓One of the highest points in the Midwest with stunning panoramic vistas
- ✓Historic ski jump tower that attracts visitors year-round
- ✓Educational opportunities to learn about the area's ski jumping history
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring layers even in summer as temperatures are significantly cooler at the peak elevation.
- 2.Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and get more runs or chairlift rides in.
- 3.The chairlift ride to the top takes about 15 minutes, so bring a camera to capture the incredible views.
- 4.Pack snacks and water, as the remote location means limited food options nearby.
- 5.Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the chairlift may close during high winds or storms.
Best Time to Visit
Summer mornings (9-11am) offer the clearest views and cooler temperatures for chairlift rides. Winter weekdays provide the best skiing conditions with shorter lift lines. Avoid peak summer afternoon hours when UV exposure is highest at elevation.
What to Know
With budget-friendly pricing ($), Copper Peak offers great value for families. The remote location means you should plan ahead for meals and gas. Parking is available on-site, and proper footwear is essential for both winter and summer visits.
Seasonal Notes
Copper Peak operates year-round with different activities per season. Winter brings skiing and snow sports (typically December through March), while summer features chairlift rides and hiking (May through October). Call ahead during shoulder seasons (April, November) as hours may be limited.
Nearby Eats
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit, or head to downtown Ironwood (about 15 minutes away) for family-friendly dining options including pizza places and casual American restaurants that welcome kids.
More Activities Near Rapid River
Adventure
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
★5.0Free❤️78
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness offers adventurous families a chance to explore one of Michigan's most pristine natural areas, featuring dramatic gorge views and rushing river scenery. This remote wilderness destination provides an authentic outdoor experience with hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests and along the stunning Sturgeon River canyon, perfect for families who love off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Adventure
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
★4.9$❤️50
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers families an unforgettable Upper Peninsula adventure with over 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, stunning waterfalls, and kid-friendly trails perfect for young explorers. With its exceptional 4.9-star rating and budget-friendly pricing, this outdoor wonderland provides countless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and creating lasting family memories in one of Michigan's most pristine natural settings.
Adventure
Brockway Mountain
★4.9Free❤️142
Brockway Mountain offers one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the Upper Peninsula, perfect for families who want outdoor adventure without intense hiking. The 9.5-mile paved road climbs to breathtaking overlooks where kids can spot Lake Superior, eagles soaring overhead, and endless forest views, with plenty of safe pullouts for photo ops and short nature walks.
Adventure
Sugarloaf Mountain Observation Decks
★4.9Free❤️97
Sugarloaf Mountain offers families an achievable outdoor adventure with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Superior and Marquette. With accessible pathways alongside traditional trails, this beloved Michigan destination welcomes families of all fitness levels to experience the beauty of the Upper Peninsula without requiring extreme hiking experience.