Upper Peninsula Forestland

Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula sprawls across a total of 10.5 million acres. About 84% of that, or 8.8 million acres, is forestland, which are integral to the region’s natural landscape and economy. The U.P. is characterized by dense forests, pristine rivers, and rugged terrain, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude in the wilderness. The forests here are not only large and ecologically significant, but also home to a rich history of human activity, including logging, indigenous cultures, and conservation efforts. The region's forestlands include a variety of public lands, including national forests, state forests, and wildlife areas, many of which are protected to maintain the biodiversity and ecological integrity of the area.

The two primary national forests that dominate the Upper Peninsula’s landscape are the Ottawa National Forest and the Hiawatha National Forest, each covering extensive areas. The Ottawa National Forest, located in the western portion of the U.P., covers about 980,000 acres, extending into parts of Wisconsin, as well. The Ottawa also boasts over 1,000 lakes and streams, making it a popular spot for fishing, kayaking and hiking. Notable areas within the Ottawa National Forest include the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (which, although a state park, is entirely surrounded by national forest land), known for its beautiful hardwood forests and panoramic views of Lake Superior.

On the eastern side of the Upper Peninsula lies the Hiawatha National Forest, covering about 880,000 acres. This forest stretches along the shores of both Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and is divided into two separate locations, each offering distinct landscapes and experiences. There is an Eastern forest which is located north of St. Ignace and stretches to the west of Sault Ste. Marie, and the western forest, which lies between the towns of Rapid River and Manistique along the north shore of Lake Michigan, extending north all the way to the shores of Lake Superior around the town of Munising. The Hiawatha National Forest contains some of the most beautiful inland lakes in the Central Upper Peninsula, and is rich in pine, birch, and aspen forestland.

In addition to these national forests, the Upper Peninsula is home to a variety of state-managed forestlands, including the Escanaba State Forest, the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, and numerous smaller state forests that collectively add up to a vast network of protected lands. The Seney National Wildlife Refuge, located near the town of Seney, is a particularly important wildlife conservation area, known for its wetlands and diverse habitats for waterfowl, including migratory birds. It is a key destination for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and hunters. These state-managed areas often complement the national forests, providing additional opportunities for outdoor exploration.

The forests of the Upper Peninsula also have a deep historical significance. Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Menominee, and Potawatomi. These tribes lived off the land, relying on the forests for food, shelter, and cultural practices. The history of logging in the UP is another key part of the region's past. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the forests were extensively logged for timber, especially pine, which was in high demand for construction and shipbuilding. The timber industry played a crucial role in the development of towns and cities in the UP, such as Escanaba, Iron Mountain, and Marquette. Over time, logging practices led to widespread deforestation, but efforts to conserve and replant trees have helped restore large areas of the forest, and many of these lands are now protected. The conservation of the Upper Peninsula’s forestlands remains a priority, with ongoing efforts to balance recreational use with the preservation of natural habitats. These forests are not only important for biodiversity and ecosystem services but also form a central part of the cultural identity of the Upper Peninsula, where the beauty of the natural world has shaped the lives of the people who live there. Whether through the preservation of old-growth timber, the management of wildlife populations, or the encouragement of sustainable recreation, the forests of the Upper Peninsula continue to be a vital and cherished resource.