Lake of the Clouds

To the native Ojibwa people, the well-worn chain of mountains rising from the waters of Lake Superior reminded them of “kag”, the woodland Porcupine. The mountain range they called, “Kag-wadjiw”, the “Porcupine Mountains.”

Porcupine Mountains State Park was established in 1945 by Michigan’s Legislature to protect the last large stand of uncut hardwood forest remaining in the Midwest. Since then, many changes have taken place in the way we live; however, the Porcupine Mountains are almost unchanged.

The Park is situated on 60,000 acres along the Lake Superior shoreline of Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula. The remote interior, the towering pine and hemlock, seem to defy time. The solitude of the park is mysterious and exciting. Towering virgin timber, striking geologic formations, abundant wildlife, secluded lakes and waterfalls, and miles of wild rivers and streams make a visit to the “Porkies” a trip to remember. The DNR maintains nearly 100 miles of trails within the park, leading hikers to the most spectacular overlooks and vistas. Remember that the “Porkies” are rugged — steep grades, stream crossings and wildlife are frequently encountered.

Clues…

From the Lake of the Clouds parking area, take the North Mirror Lake Trail toward the Escarpment Trail. At the junction, follow the Escarpment Trail to the east. After a while you will reach the first of several overlooks along the trail. At 50 degrees from this rocky viewing vista, the trail continues down a small hill into an area of scrub trees. Soon on your right will be another overlook area, this one gravel. Standing at the overlook, ahead of you lies a breathtaking view of the Lake of the Clouds. At 110 degrees a many-armed dead tree leans away from a fall; at 200 degrees stands a skinny pine; and at 250 degrees rests a large boulder. Tucked into a crevice along the west end of the top edge of the boulder, you will find the letterbox.