Recreating Responsibly in Alger County

Surrounded by the rugged wilderness of the Hiawatha National Forest and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, it’s no wonder Alger County boasts in outdoor adventure. From gigantic bluffs along magical Lake Superior to tranquil trails winding through tall trees, hundreds of thousands of people visit every year to enjoy the natural treasures found in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. 

“Tourism is an essential part of our local economy and employs many people in our small Northern town,” said Cori Ann Cearley, president of the Munising Visitors Bureau. “That being said, it is our job as stewards of our community to help educate people who visit on best practices and safety measures. If we are going to promote tourism, we need to also promote sustainability and safety as the two go hand in hand.”

While the Hiawatha National Forest is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is overseen by the National Park Service, both organizations along with the Munising Visitors Bureau recommend keeping the Leave No Trace principles in mind while visiting the area.

"As part of the Upper Peninsula recreation community, the U.S. Forest Service encourages visitors to plan and travel mindfully, keeping in mind the seven principles of the "leave No Trace" ethic," said Janel Crooks, Public Affairs Officer for Hiawatha National Forest. “The seven Leave No Trace Principles are: plan ahead and come prepared; travel and camp on durable surfaces; dispose of waste properly; leave what you find; minimize campfire impacts; respect wildlife; and be considerate of others.”

She added that following these and other common-sense principles can help minimize the wear and tear on well-loved recreation sites.

By also following the principles, Susan Reece, Chief of Interpretation of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, says it helps ensure visitors can continue to enjoy these cherished sites for years to come. Since erosion is a concern, especially in popular areas like Miners Beach and Miners Falls, sticking to designated trails is key to helping prevent the problem.

“Most people who are familiar with the outdoors would be amazed at the number of visitors who don’t understand the basic concepts of Leave No Trace,” Cearley said. “We enjoy our close working relationship with the Hiawatha National Forest and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and are always happy to help get messaging out in conjunction with them, especially when it’s as important as keeping our area clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.”