Summer Aurora Hunting
If you are visiting the Upper Peninsula this summer, there is a good chance that you might catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis! What makes the U.P. such an amazing Aurora watching area is that we have little light pollution providing some of the darkest skies in the Midwest! Our sparsely populated area is also boarded by the enormous Lake Superior offering many viewing areas with no obstructions.
Pro Aurora hunters will check apps to see if Auroras are forecasted, check the local forecast for clear skies, and if so head out to an area with dark skies
Keweenaw Dark Sky Park
The Keweenaw Dark Sky Park is located at the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan, U.S. Surrounded by Lake Superior on three sides, the peninsula is a wonderful place for stargazing and exploring. The park is headquartered at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, which is open to the public and accessible year-round, 24-hours a day, and is surrounded by largely undeveloped wilderness.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Situated on the south shore of Lake Superior, there are a multitude of easy to get to, dark sky viewing spots in the Park. Some of the best viewing places bring a warm drink and a blanket to Miner’s Beach, Miners Castle, or Twelve mile Beach.
Presque Isle
When the “lights” are out in Marquette, one of the best viewing spots is Presque Isle Park. The north side of the island is protected from the city lights and offers amazing spots to view the beautiful colors of the aurora.
