π Trailheads & Parking
All major Marquette-area trailheads are within 15 minutes of downtown. Most are free to park. Use these addresses in your GPS β cell service can be spotty north of town once you're riding.
NTN β South Trails Trailhead
π 1200 W Washington St, MarquetteMain access point for the NTN south trail network near Marquette Mountain. Beginner-friendly flow trails as well as advanced technical options. Pit toilet on site. This is the best starting point for first-time NTN visitors.
NTN β County Road 550 Trailhead
π County Rd 550 N, Marquette (past the Dead River)Northern access to the NTN. Also the parking area for Buck Buchanan and Powder Mill disc golf. The road turns to gravel after the Dead River bridge β any car can make it. Multi-use trailhead serving mountain bikers, hikers, and disc golfers.
RAMBA β Teal Lake Trailhead
π Teal Lake Rd, NegauneePrimary RAMBA trailhead at Teal Lake in Negaunee. Connects directly to the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, making it easy to ride singletrack and then transition to the paved trail network. About 20 minutes west of Marquette.
IOHT β Founders Landing (Marquette)
π Founders Landing, Marquette waterfrontDowntown Marquette access to the 47-mile Iron Ore Heritage Trail at Marquette Commons (112 S Third St). Ride west through Negaunee and Ishpeming all the way to the western terminus in Republic, or east to Harvey. Connects to the Bi-Path and lakeshore.
Harlow Lake Trailhead
π Harlow Lake Rd, ~8 mi north of MarquetteGravel road access to the Harlow Lake trail system β quieter than NTN, great for intermediate riders or anyone wanting solitude. Beautiful state forest setting. Drive north on CR 550 and follow signs.
Bi-Path β Presque Isle Park
π Presque Isle Ave, MarquetteNorthern terminus of the Marquette Bi-Path at Presque Isle Park β a 326-acre park on a peninsula jutting into Lake Superior. The 5-mile loop road around the park is car-free in summer mornings. Great warm-up or cool-down ride with Superior views.
πΊ Other UP Riding Areas
Marquette is the hub, but the Upper Peninsula has world-class riding spread across the region. Each destination is worth a dedicated day trip or overnight stop.
Copper Harbor
~2.5 hrs NW Β· Keweenaw Peninsula
Consistently ranked among the top 10 mountain bike destinations in North America. An IMBA Silver-level Ride Center β the highest rated trail system in the UP. Gravity-fed, flow-heavy trails descend through old-growth forest to Lake Superior. The Keweenaw Adventure Company runs shuttles and rentals from the trailhead. Plan for a full day or overnight β the Keweenaw Peninsula drive is an attraction on its own.
Houghton / Hancock
~1.5 hrs W Β· Michigan Tech Country
The twin cities of Houghton and Hancock sit on either side of the Portage Lake waterway and serve as the gateway to the Keweenaw. Michigan Tech's trails, the Portage Lake shoreline, and growing Copper Country singletrack make this a solid riding stop. Strong craft beer scene post-ride β Keweenaw Brewing Co. is a must.
Munising
~40 mi W on M-28
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore country. The area has forest roads, USFS singletrack, and trails within the national lakeshore system that are perfect for cross-country and gravel riding. Combine a morning ride with an afternoon Pictured Rocks boat tour or a walk to Miners Beach. Miners Falls Mini Golf on M-28 is a fun stop on the way back.
Gwinn & the Iron Range
~15 min S of Marquette
Gwinn is home to Red Fox Run Golf (great post-ride 18 holes) and the Sawyer DGC on the old K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base grounds. The surrounding Gwinn State Forest has quiet forest roads and ORV trails that double as gravel routes. Easy day trip from Marquette for a change of scenery.
π¨ Where to Stay
Book early β Marquette fills up fast in summer. The map below shows all hotels and campgrounds.
The Landmark Inn
$$$Historic icon since 1930. Lake views, fireplaces & soaking tubs. Rooftop Crow's Nest lounge.
Boutique hotel. Welcome cocktail, evening happy hour, morning pastries. Walk to everything.
Only hotel on the Lake Superior shoreline. Indoor pool, free breakfast.
Full kitchens, underground parking, free breakfast, social hour MonβWed.
On the bike path to Presque Isle. Free breakfast, indoor pool, beach across the road.
Newly renovated, near-5-star reviews. Sauna & superb breakfast. Don't judge by the exterior.
Downtown, 4 blocks from the lake. Pool, hot tub, sauna. Restaurant on-site.
Modern & clean. Free hot breakfast daily. Near Marquette Mountain.
Lake Superior views across the road. Pet-friendly and affordable.
Full-service Holiday Inn with on-site Sportsman's restaurant, indoor pool, free parking. Closer to downtown than the Express. Good mid-range choice on US-41 W.
Clean, reliable, free hot breakfast, indoor pool. Out on US-41 W β easy in/out access.
Suite-style rooms with separate living areas. Free hot breakfast, indoor pool and hot tub, free parking, pet-friendly. Just west of downtown on US-41 β easy highway access.
Formerly the Birchmont Motel, now adventure lodging. Directly across from Lake Superior. Bikes included. Seasonal β open MayβOct.
βΊ Camping & Cabins
Tourist Park Campground
π 2145 Sugar Loaf Ave π (906) 228-0465In-city campground on the Dead River. 110 sites, electric hookups, showers, and bike trail access. Only minutes from downtown.
Rippling River Resort
π M-553 (Near Marquette Mountain)Luxury cabins, pools & full hookups in a beautiful wooded setting near the ski hill. The upscale camping option.
Raging River Resort
π M-553 (Near Marquette Mountain)Sister property to Rippling River. Glamping, yurts & rustic RV sites (electric only). Great choice for an outdoor vibe without roughing it.
π΄ Food & Drink
The map below shows all restaurants and breweries. Use the tabs to filter by category.
Don't leave without eating a pasty.
The pasty (PASS-tee) is the iconic Upper Peninsula food β a hand-crimped meat-and-vegetable pastry brought by Cornish miners in the 1800s. Every UP town has a version. Marquette has some of the best. Order one for the road.
TueβSat 5β10pm
π 113 S Front St π (906) 228-0900The finest dining in the UP. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Marquette Harbor, the ore dock, and Lake Superior. Prime steaks, fresh Great Lakes whitefish, lobster, and an extraordinary 100+ bottle wine list. Dress up a little. Reserve well in advance β tables go fast in late May.
TueβSat 11amβ9pm
π 145 Jackson Cut Alley π (906) 226-8200From-scratch New Orleans cooking in the heart of the UP. The jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish pasta are made daily from real Cajun recipes β no shortcuts. Known as the best Cajun restaurant north of Chicago. The po'boys are outstanding and the kitchen stays open late.
MonβSat 11amβ9pm
π 119 S Front St π (906) 228-3533Marquette's most beloved institution since 1985. The whitefish chowder is legendary β thick, creamy, and packed with fresh Lake Superior fish. House-brewed ales pair perfectly. The building dates to 1883 and sits right on Front Street. Reserve ahead on weekends; this place fills up every night.
Daily 11amβ10pm
π 113 W Baraga Ave π (906) 273-0709The best margarita in the UP, made with fresh-squeezed citrus. Birria tacos with consommΓ© for dipping, carne asada fries, and a rotating tequila list that rivals places twice the price. Late-night kitchen makes it ideal after the breweries. Loud, fun, and packed on weekends.
Daily 11amβ11pm
π 927 N Third St π (906) 228-7000Marquette's go-to pizza spot for decades. Hand-tossed pies with quality toppings, a full cocktail lounge, and a laid-back vibe that works for families and groups alike. The pepperoni and sausage combo is a crowd favorite. Also does subs and pasta. Great for a casual group dinner.
TueβSun 4pm+
π 1106 N Third St π (906) 226-0200Marquette's favorite Italian restaurant. Generous portions of from-scratch pasta, chicken parmesan, wood-fired pizza, and house-made sauces. The kind of Italian-American cooking that feels like Sunday dinner at someone's grandmother's house. Consistently rated the most comforting meal in town.
MonβThu 4β9pm, FriβSun 11amβ9pm
π 105 E Washington St π (906) 273-0990One of Marquette's most celebrated newer restaurants. Farm-to-table American cuisine with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients from UP farms and Lake Superior. Creative rotating menu β think Great Lakes whitefish prepared in ways you haven't tried, hand-cut steaks, and thoughtful vegetarian options. Consistently in the top 5 on TripAdvisor.
Daily 11amβ8pm
π 1145 W Washington St π (906) 228-5228Fast-casual Mexican done right. Marinated grilled meats, slow-cooked pork, house-made salsas, and fresh guacamole. The carne asada bowl is one of the best lunch deals in town. Counter service makes it quick β great stop before hitting the trails.
Bodega
$$MonβSat 11amβ3pm
π 517 N 3rd St π (906) 226-7009Small neighborhood lunch spot with big flavors. The menu changes daily based on what's fresh and local β often featuring Lake Superior whitefish, local mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian and vegan options always available. Popular with NMU faculty. Arrive early β it sells out.
TueβThu 11amβ9pm Β· FriβSat 10amβ10pm Β· Sun 10amβ9pm
π 139 W Washington St π (906) 273-2455A completely unique Marquette experience: a restored 1920s movie theater where classic and indie films play on the big screen while you eat dinner and cocktails. Thoughtful, rotating menu with craft cocktails to match. Book online β it sells out on film nights. Even non-movie seats fill fast on weekends.
Daily 8amβ4pm
π 231 W Washington St π (906) 273-0100Marquette's gem of a French-style patisserie on the south shore of Lake Superior. Everything made in-house daily: flaky croissants, macarons, sandwiches, soups, and beautiful desserts. The coffee is excellent. Perfect for a leisurely breakfast before hitting the trails or a light lunch between sightseeing.
MonβSat 9amβ6pm
π 1501 Division St π (906) 458-6106Local favorite known for creative sweet and savory hand pies, soups, and baked goods. Everything from-scratch with an emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients. The lunch crowd fills up fast β grab a pie and a cup of soup and you're set. Very popular with the NMU crowd.
MonβSat 11amβ8pm
π 1635 Presque Isle Ave π (906) 362-4694Brand new deli that opened February 2026 β right where Jean Kay's used to be. Cult-classic deli favorites: hot and cold sandwiches, grilled cheese, fresh soups, salads, and a dedicated street dog menu. Creative and approachable. Delivery via DoorDash & UberEats too.
TueβFri 10amβ5pm
π 1015 N 3rd St π (906) 273-0291A Marquette gem: homemade pasties alongside Greek-inspired baked goods β baklava, cookies, spanakopita, and incredible sweets. Small, cozy, and completely from-scratch. One of the most unique spots in the UP. Pasties with a side of baklava? Yes, absolutely.
MonβFri 7amβ8pm
π 2164 US-41 W π (906) 228-3882Nearly 80 years of UP pasty tradition. Beef, rutabaga, potato, and onion baked fresh all day in traditional Cornish-style crimped crusts. One of the best-known pasty shops in the UP β 2023 was a record year and business keeps growing. Get them with gravy.
Daily 6:30amβ5pm
π 600 N 3rd St π (906) 451-5662Marquette's favorite specialty coffee shop. Exceptional single-origin pour-overs, espresso drinks, and a thoughtful rotating menu of beans sourced from around the world. The space is bright and welcoming β a great spot to start the morning before hitting the trails. Also serves pastries and light bites.
MonβSat 7amβ5pm, Sun 9amβ3pm
π 119 W Baraga Ave π (906) 226-2112Marquette's original specialty coffee roaster. They roast their own beans in-house and the quality shows in every cup. Downtown location steps from the harbor and bike path. Order a strong pour-over, find a seat, and stay awhile. Consistently excellent across the board.
Daily noonβ11pm
π 424 N 3rd St π (906) 273-1333The most celebrated brewery in the Upper Peninsula and one of the best in Michigan. The outdoor patio holds 200+ people and hosts live music nearly every night in summer. Rotating food trucks pull up to the beer garden. The Grand Rabbits cream ale and 51K IPA are year-round classics. Arrive early on weekends β it gets packed.
Daily noonβ11pm
π 114 W Spring St π (906) 228-8000Named after Marquette's iconic iron ore loading dock visible from the taproom. Huge biergarten, live music on weekends, and a rotating taco truck. Known for bold nitro beers and hazy IPAs. Steps from the waterfront β grab a crowler and walk to the harbor. Dog-friendly patio.
WedβSun noonβ10pm
π 501 S Lake St π (906) 273-1300Michigan's only consumer-owned cooperative brewery, co-founded and community-supported. Stunning fire pit patio with views of Lake Superior and the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse. Outstanding hazy IPAs and lagers. The co-op model means profits stay in the community. A truly special Marquette experience.
Daily noonβ11pm
π 1034 N 3rd St π (906) 273-2727Scandinavian-inspired brewery with 27 rotating taps covering everything from classic lagers to experimental sours. Dog-friendly patio, trivia nights, live music, and weekend DJ sets. One of the most creative beer programs in the UP. The Norwegian name means "cognition" β fitting for a place that makes you think differently about beer.
Thu 3β8pm Β· FriβSat noonβ8pm Β· Sun noonβ6pm
π 260 Northwoods Rd π (906) 273-2559Michigan's first meadery and cidery, housed in the beautifully restored 1933 Northwoods Supper Club just west of Marquette. All mead and cider made in-house from local UP honey and Michigan apples. Stunning space with farmhouse character and a patio you won't want to leave. ThuβSun only β plan ahead.
TueβSat 4β10pm
π 215 S Front St π (906) 273-2900100+ wines by the glass sourced from small producers around the world. Excellent craft cocktails and thoughtful small plates β charcuterie, cheese, flatbreads. The harbor-view patio is perfect for a sunset glass of wine after a day on the trails. Intimate and unpretentious.
WedβSat 5pm+
π 136 W Washington St π (906) 273-0490Marquette's only craft distillery, operating inside the meticulously restored 1920s Nordic Theater. Every bottle of gin, whiskey, and vodka is made from scratch on-site. The cocktail menu changes seasonally and uses house spirits in unexpected ways. The space itself is worth a visit β original tin ceilings, art deco fixtures, and a stunning bar.
β Coffee & Bakeries
Opens 7am
π 119 W Baraga Ave π (906) 226-2112Original UP roaster since 2002. Daily small-batch roasts & house-made syrups with lake views.
Opens 7am
π 223 W Washington St π (906) 226-7744Institution since 1988. Oversized scratch muffins & espresso bar.
Opens 8am
π 231 W Washington St π (906) 273-0100Modern patisserie & coffee bar. Croissants, macarons, chocolates & grab-and-go lunch.
Opens 7am
π 401 N 3rd St π (906) 273-14601890 Victorian roastery. Espresso + 8 beer taps β only UP coffee bar with a full bar.
Opens 7am
π 1125 N 3rd St π (906) 273-2556Organically sourced, fresh-roasted daily. Sunday jazz & hand-held waffles to go.
Opens 6:30am
π 600 N 3rd St π (906) 451-5662Great lattes, crepes & breakfast sandwiches. Earlier to open than most.
Opens 6am
π 1301 S Front St π (906) 225-1301Fresh breads, donuts, pastries & custom cakes. Earliest to open in town.
Opens 7:30am
π 153 W Washington StSpecialty lattes & creative breakfast bites. Named for the iconic UP oven-dried toast.
Opens 9am
π 1501 Division StFrom-scratch pies, pot pies & baked goods from local farms. Also serves coffee & lunch.
π₯Ύ Outdoors
π Presque Isle Park
Peter White Dr Β· City park β no pass required Β· Free Β· Open 7amβ11pm daily
Basalt cliffs over Lake Superior. Rocky path β sturdy shoes. Jump or just watch. Very cold water.
Best sunset view in Marquette. Pull off and find a rock β bring a blanket.
Watch massive ore freighters load at the historic dock from shore.
Stroll the historic breakwater out into the harbor for excellent views.
Paved path from downtown through the park. Bike rentals available locally.
2.2-mile coastal trail along Superior's shoreline. Great for all ages.
Mt. Marquette Overlook
π Mt. Marquette Rd off US-41Drive the one-way road up to 1,200 ft, park at the top, then a short hike to the overlook point. Panoramic views of Marquette, Lake Superior, and both ore docks. 4WD recommended.
Sugarloaf Mountain
π County Rd 550 N, ~6 miles northMarquette's iconic hike. Wooden stairways to rocky summit 470 ft above Superior. ~1 mi round-trip. Go early on weekends.
Dead River Falls
π Co Rd 480 Β· 15 min northSteep hike to 4 sets of waterfalls. Best local waterfall hike in the county.
Songbird Trail @ Little Presque Isle
π County Rd 550 N, ~5 miles northState forest recreation area β Michigan Recreation Passport required ($18/vehicle). Gentle loop through wetlands & sandy Superior coves. Family-friendly.
Wetmore Landing
π Off County Rd 550 N, ~3 miles northState forest beach on Lake Superior β Michigan Recreation Passport required. Popular sandy swimming beach. Cold water!
Hogback Mountain
π Beagle Club Rd NW of MarquetteState forest land β Michigan Recreation Passport required. ~3.5 mi round-trip. Steep rocky scramble, sweeping summit views. No cell signal β boots & water required.
Lakenenland Sculpture Park
π M-28 E Β· ~20 mi east of Marquette80+ massive iron sculptures by Tom Lakenen spread across the woods along M-28. Walk or drive through anytime. Incredible and free.
Big Bay Drive
π Hwy 550 North Β· 28 milesScenic drive north to Big Bay. Stop at Thomas Rock for panoramic views, or Thunder Bay Inn for Friday Fish Fry.
Old Town Negaunee
π Iron Ore Heritage Trail, NegauneeWalk or bike through wooded ruins of the original Jackson Mine. Old Town DGC β 27-hole disc golf on-site. Donations appreciated.
β³ Golf
Marquette County punches well above its weight for golf. Between Greywalls β one of Michigan's best courses β and four other solid public options within 30 minutes, you can play every day of your trip on a different course.
GolfWeek's #2 course you can play in Michigan, Golf Digest top-10. Eighteen holes carved through exposed granite outcroppings on the shores of Lake Superior β genuinely one of the most dramatic settings in Midwest golf. The back nine drops toward the lake with panoramic Superior views from multiple tee boxes. Book weeks ahead; this one fills up fast all summer.
The classic companion course to Greywalls β opened in 1926 and still plays beautifully. Rolling terrain, large undulating greens, and the same stunning Lake Superior backdrop at a more accessible price point. More forgiving off the tee than Greywalls but still a legit test. Great option if Greywalls is booked or budget is tighter.
Northern Michigan University's public 18-hole course right on US-41 β one of the best values in the UP. Well-maintained fairways, a grass tee driving range, and multiple tee boxes for all skill levels. Green fees around $30β48 depending on 9 or 18 holes. Walk-ons welcome when available; call ahead for tee times on weekends.
A hidden gem about 25 minutes west of Marquette in Champion. 210 acres of classic UP terrain with some of the best-maintained greens in the entire Upper Peninsula. Tight wooded fairways, challenging layout, and virtually no crowds compared to the Marquette courses. Green fees around $40 for 18 holes β exceptional value for the quality.
One of the UP's premier public courses, just 15 minutes south of Marquette in Gwinn. Scenic layout through rolling UP terrain with well-conditioned fairways and greens. Popular with locals who want a step up from the NMU course without paying Greywalls prices. Green fees around $39β50. Book tee times online at redfoxrun.com.
Miners Falls Mini Golf
Mini GolfOne of the best mini golf setups in Michigan β 18 holes winding through 9 water features: rivers, ponds, fountains, waterfalls, a bridge, and a rock cave. Perfect stop on the M-28 drive in. Open noonβ9 PM seasonally. Also serves Chocolate Shoppe super premium ice cream.
π₯ Disc Golf
The Marquette area is one of the best disc golf destinations in the Midwest. Between wooded UP terrain, historic mining ruins, and river corridors, you can play 80+ holes within 20 minutes of downtown.
Buck Buchanan Memorial DGC
π County Rd 550 N Β· north of the Dead RiverThe premier course in the UP. 100+ acres of classic UP forest with granite outcroppings, wetlands, and Dead River crossings. Four different layouts let beginners and advanced players use the same holes. Two tees and two baskets per hole β you can play 36 unique holes without repeating. Pair with Powder Mill across the river for a full day of disc golf.
View on UDisc βPowder Mill DGC
π County Rd 550 N Β· Dead River corridorMarquette's most-played course and consistently rated one of the top free courses in Michigan. Technical wooded fairways wind through the Dead River bottomland with tight lines, elevation changes, and a few signature island-style approaches. Named for the historic gunpowder mill that once operated here. Combine with Buck Buchanan (a short walk across the river) for 36 memorable holes.
View on UDisc βOld Town DGC β Negaunee
π Iron Ore Heritage Trail, NegauneeOne of the most unique and memorable disc golf experiences in Michigan, possibly the Midwest. 27 holes wind through the forested ruins of Negaunee's original 19th-century iron mining settlement β crumbling stone walls, old mine shafts, railroad grades, and century-old building foundations frame every hole. The setting is haunting and beautiful. Completely free. Use Apple Maps or UDisc for directions since Google doesn't find the trailhead well.
View on UDisc βAl Quaal Rec Area DGC β Ishpeming
π 501 Poplar St Β· Al Quaal Rec Area, IshpemingSet inside Ishpeming's Al Quaal Recreation Area, this course runs through mixed UP forest with a mix of open and wooded holes. Rated moderate to very hard β a solid challenge about 20 minutes west of Marquette. The same park has a sledding hill, ice rink, and trails if non-disc golfers are along for the trip.
View on UDisc βSawyer DGC β Gwinn
π K.I. Sawyer Β· Gwinn (near Red Fox Run Golf)18-hole course on the old K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base grounds near Gwinn, about 15 minutes south of Marquette. The front 9 is well-maintained with concrete tees; stick to those as the alternate 9 can be overgrown in late May. Easy to pair with a round at nearby Red Fox Run Golf Course.
View on UDisc βDisc Golf Pro Tips
π΅ Biking & Trail Systems
π² Iron Ore Heritage Trail β UNKNOWN
Free Β· All levelsThe Iron Ore Heritage Trail is the spine of cycling in the Marquette area β a paved multi-use path stretching 47+ miles from Republic through Ishpeming, Negaunee, and into downtown Marquette, extending east to Harvey. The trail follows historic iron ore rail grades through the heart of the mining district, passing century-old mine ruins, open pit overlooks, and dense UP forest. It's fully paved and flat to gently rolling, making it accessible to all fitness levels on any type of bike β road bikes, hybrids, e-bikes, and even strollers.
One of only a few IMBA Ride Centers in the Midwest
π Multiple trailheads β see noquetrails.org65+ miles of purpose-built singletrack. North trails are flow-focused and beginner-friendly; South trails deliver advanced technical riding with rock gardens, rooty lines, and significant elevation. Trailheads at NTN South (Washington St), CR 550 (north), Forestville, and Well Road. Donations go directly to trail maintenance.
Trail Map & Conditions βRAMBA Trails β Ishpeming & Negaunee β UNKNOWN
π Multiple trailheads in Ishpeming & NegauneeThe Range Area Mountain Bike Association has built one of the UP's best trail networks entirely by volunteer hand β no machines, all handwork. Singletrack spans Ishpeming and Negaunee with creative lines, natural rock features, and a rugged style that rewards skilled riders. Also used for fat-tire riding in winter when packed snow makes excellent conditions. Connects to the Iron Ore Heritage Trail for multi-modal rides.
Trail Map βHarlow Lake Trail System β UNKNOWN
π Harlow Lake Rd, ~8 miles north of MarquetteQuiet state forest trail network around Harlow Lake β great for both hiking and mountain biking. Less crowded than NTN on summer weekends. Loops range from 2 to 8 miles through mixed UP forest. The lake itself is a beautiful swimming destination in summer.
Marquette Bi-Path (City Loop) β UNKNOWN
π Downtown Marquette to Presque Isle ParkMarquette's paved in-city bike and pedestrian path connects downtown to Presque Isle Park along the Lake Superior shoreline. About 4 miles one way. Flat and beautiful β one of the nicest urban bike paths in Michigan. Links with the Iron Ore Heritage Trail at multiple points. Great for a casual ride, morning jog, or sunset stroll.
π² Bike Shops & Rentals
All shops below can advise on current trail conditions. Call ahead for rental availability β summer weekends book fast.
Bates Bikes
π 1801 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette π (906) 235-8247E-bike rental and sales right on Presque Isle Ave β the perfect launch point for the IOHT shoreline trail. 20+ e-bikes available by the hour, half-day, or full day. Ride the lakeshore all the way to Harvey in under two hours. MonβFri 10β5, Sat 10β4, Sun 10β2.
Quick Stop Bike Shop
π 1100 N 3rd St, Marquette π (906) 225-1577Marquette's oldest bike shop β open since the late 1970s. Serious MTB selection with top-shelf brands. Staffed by experienced mechanics and local riders who know the NTN trails inside and out.
Lakeshore Bike
π 505 N Lakeshore Blvd, MarquetteRight across from Lake Superior. Specialized, Santa Cruz, and Norco dealer with premium rentals β mountain bikes, e-bikes, and fat bikes. "Grow With Us" trade-up program for kids' bikes. Great views, great staff.
Down Wind Sports
π 514 N Third St, Marquette π (906) 226-7112Marquette's premier outdoor gear shop β biking, paddling, climbing, disc golf, and more. Giant and Cannondale dealer with full bike service and rentals. Best disc selection in town.
Sports Rack
π 315 W Washington St, Marquette π (906) 225-1766The UP's #1 fat bike and nordic ski shop. Full fleet of Salsa Cycles fat bikes for winter rental. If you want to ride year-round on snow-packed NTN trails, this is your first stop.
Love and Bicycles (Negaunee)
π 340 Iron St, Negaunee Β· 10 mi westFamily-owned shop in downtown Negaunee right near the RAMBA and IOHT trail networks. Jamis MTB and fat bike dealer, plus RAD Power e-bikes. Great community vibe and knowledgeable staff for the local singletrack.
West End Ski & Trail (Ishpeming)
π 101 S Main St, Ishpeming Β· 14 mi westFull-service MTB shop right in Ishpeming β perfect if you're riding RAMBA or Al Quaal. Hosts Wednesday night group rides at 6:30 PM for all ability levels. The local hub for the Ishpeming riding scene.
π Town & Indoors
Downtown Washington St
π Washington St & Front StMarquette's main shopping and dining corridor. Boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and cafes from Third Street to the waterfront. Great for a stroll between meals.
Third Street District
π N Third St, MarquetteMarquette's local hub β bike shops, coffee roasters, craft breweries, and specialty retail from Baraga Ave north to Presque Isle. Walkable and very bike-friendly.
UP Children's Museum
π 123 W Baraga Ave π (906) 226-3911Hands-on interactive exhibits designed by kids, for kids ages 1β13.
Marquette Regional History Center
π 145 W Spring St π (906) 226-3571Immersive exhibits on iron ore mining, Great Lakes shipping & UP heritage.
Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum (14 mi west)
π 501 W Euclid, IshpemingUnderground mine tours on the National Register of Historic Places. TueβSat 10amβ4pm, MayβSep.
HOTplate Pottery
π 135 W Washington St π (906) 228-9577Paint your own pottery. Fun for all ages, great rainy-day activity.
Escape Marquette
π 130 W Washington St π (906) 273-2410Family-friendly private escape rooms. Book ahead β popular with groups.
π Races & Riding Events
The UP's race calendar punches way above its weight. From epic endurance MTB to gravel to cyclocross, there's something on the calendar nearly every month of the riding season.
2026 Race Calendar
| Date | Event | Type | Distance / Format | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 23, 2026 | Polar Roll | Fat Bike | Winter fat bike race on snow-packed NTN trails | Marquette |
| Jun 6, 2026 | Iron Range Roll | Gravel | 13th annual gravel race through the iron range | Marquette |
| Jul 18β19, 2026 | The Crusher | Gravel / MTB | Epic gravel adventure in Copper Harbor | Copper Harbor |
| Jul 25–26, 2026 | The Crusher EX | Gravel / MTB | Multi-distance gravel epic through the remote Huron Mountains | L'Anse / Huron Mountains |
| Aug 8, 2026 | Ore to Shore | MTB Epic | Hard Rock 48mi Β· Soft Rock 28mi Β· Shore Rock 10mi Β· Jr/Little Rock | Negaunee β Marquette |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Marji Gesick 50/100 | Endurance MTB | 50- and 100-mile singletrack epic. One of the gnarliest in the US. | Ishpeming |
| SepβNov 2026 | UPcross Series | Cyclocross | Fall CX race series β all ages and abilities, race dates TBA | Marquette / Ishpeming |
| Jun 26β28, 2026 | Marquette Trails Festival | Multi-Event | MTB races, dual slalom, criterium, trail running β 16 events over 3 days | Marquette Mountain |
| Aug 14β15, 2026 | Marquette Trail 50 | Trail Run / MTB | 50K and 50-mile ultra β trail run & bike options, fills in minutes | NTN Trailhead |
| Oct 6β7, 2026 | Marquette Fall Enduro | Enduro MTB | Timed downhill stages β Open, Sport, Beginner. Lake Superior Gravity Series finale. | Marquette Mountain |
Local Riding Organizations
906 Adventure Team
Marquette, MI Β· 501(c)3 nonprofit
The UP's premier adventure race organization. Puts on the Marji Gesick, Polar Roll, and The Crusher β three of the most bucket-list events in Midwest mountain biking. Community-driven and always epic.
Ore to Shore
Negaunee β Marquette Β· August
A classic UP MTB epic β point-to-point from the iron range down to the lake. Six race distances mean there's a category for every rider, from the competitive Hard Rock 48-miler to the Little Rock kids' race.
UPcross
Marquette Β· Fall cyclocross series
Marquette's cyclocross club hosts a fall race series plus casual group rides throughout the year, including the Spring Donut Ride. All ages and skill levels welcome β great community, great course design.
Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN)
Marquette Β· Trail stewardship
The nonprofit behind the NTN trail system. IMBA Bronze Ride Center designation. Hosts weekly group rides, trail workdays, and the annual NTN Race Series. Follow them for trail conditions and events.
RAMBA
Negaunee / Ishpeming Β· Trail stewardship
Rugged Area Mountain Bikers Association β volunteer crew that hand-built every inch of Teal Lake and the surrounding singletrack. Hosts group rides out of the Teal Lake trailhead. If you ride RAMBA trails, give back.
Michigan Gravel Race Series
Iron Range Roll Β· June
The Iron Range Roll in Marquette is part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series. A 13-year tradition celebrating the iron range's gravel roads and mining heritage. Great early-summer warm-up race.
π Essentials
Tadych's Marketplace Foods
π 1401 Odovero Dr π (906) 226-3500Solid meat counter, bakery & fresh produce. Best local grocery.
Marquette Food Co-op
π 502 W Washington St π (906) 225-0671Organic & local specialty items downtown. No membership required.
β Marquette Weather Forecast
UP weather is unpredictable year-round β breezes off Lake Superior can drop temps 10β15Β°F. Always pack a wind layer. Data from Open-Meteo.
πͺͺ Know Your Passes
Michigan Recreation Passport β $18/vehicle (state parks & state forest recreation areas). Required at Songbird Trail, Wetmore Landing, and Hogback Mountain. Buy at the gate or in advance at michigan.gov. Presque Isle Park is a City of Marquette park β no pass needed, always free.
America the Beautiful / National Parks Pass β $25 day-use fee (or annual pass). Required at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This is a federal fee, separate from the state passport.
π΅ Trail Conditions
Check trail conditions before heading out β wet trails deteriorate quickly and closures protect the surfaces you love.