What's the best time to visit the Upper Peninsula?
The best time to visit the Upper Peninsula is during the summer months, from late May to August, when the weather averages a comfortable 78 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for outdoor adventures and camping.
This period offers lush nature, wildlife exploration, and the warmest temperatures in June, July, and August, perfect for hiking and beach explorations. Summertime in the U.P. is unmatched for those seeking adventure amidst Michigan’s unpredictable weather patterns.
Planning a trip to the Upper Peninsula soon? Get excited to go! This actually happens to be one of our favorite destinations; I fell in love with this area during a 2018 trip to Marquette. Also called the “U.P.” by locals, the Upper Peninsula is a remarkable area to visit at all times of the year, and guests can witness the gorgeous shoreline of the Great Lakes firsthand.
We know you’re doing your research to make this trip one to remember; maybe you’re planning out each day and have plans to see Tahquamenon River falls. In any case, let us be your guide!
The Best time to Visit the Upper Peninsula
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The best time to visit the Upper Peninsula is undeniably the summer months. Starting in late May to August, the Upper Peninsula is your vacation playground for untold adventure and sights to see.
The temperature reigns at an average of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and never sinks lower than 57 degrees Fahrenheit during these summer months. So visitors can enjoy trekking around during the day and can sit by a well-kept campfire at night.
One of the best parts of the Upper Peninsula is the nature and wildlife involved, and the best time to explore is in a world full of green. See waterfalls and take hikes to inhale nature all around; from late May to August, there’s no better place to be than the U.P.
The temperature is perfect and is warmest during June, July, and August. Anyone who lives in Michigan knows what the weather can be like, and if you’re visiting out of state, it’s important to remember how uncertain the temperatures can be in early spring or fall.
So if you’re looking to have some hiking and explore some beaches, summertime is the best time to go.
Cheapest time to Visit the Upper Peninsula
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The cheapest time to visit the Upper Peninsula is during November. Though visitors save a few dollars at this time of the year, the frigid weather can disrupt outdoor activities unless you enjoy snow skiing and snowmobiling.
Visitors can spot the Northern Lights too, which is an attractive feature of booking a stay during November. So if you’re okay with a heavily-indoor vacation, booking in November for the Upper Peninsula might make a memorable trip for you and your wallet.
Least Busy Time to Visit the Upper Peninsula
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The least busy time to visit the Upper Peninsula is during the winter. Not a lot of people usually want to visit a place that’s cold when everything is already cold around them.
As a result, the winter has less traffic and fewer people visiting. This is because there isn’t much to do if you aren’t a winter sports fanatic. The Upper Peninsula hosts some spectacular tracks for snowmobiling that winter sports fans can enjoy.
If not, you might schedule your trip for a different time unless being snug in a cottage during the snow is your ideal vacation.
With the average temperatures ranging from 27 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius) to 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius), it can be very bitter cold out during these winter months.
The least busy and ideal time for visiting the Upper Peninsula is during September or October. Since children will be back in school, you can count on the place to be less crowded and more peaceful in general, with more agreeable weather.
The Worst Time to Visit the Upper Peninsula
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One of the worst times to visit the Upper Peninsula is in the winter months. While there are some winter activities to face the cold (snowmobiling, downhill skiing and snowboarding, and the spectacular Northern Lights), visitors miss out on the beauty you could see in the summer.
Another time of year to avoid is April and October because, during these two months, insect activity is at its highest. Even though the Upper Peninsula is known for its beautiful wilderness, this nature includes plenty of pesty and annoying critters.
If you decide to attempt an April or October trip, bring bug spray and embrace long sleeves and layers that will make your skin inaccessible to pesky mosquitoes, ticks, and other flying vermin.
Visitors usually visit between this window since April is still a little icy, and following September, the temperatures tend to plummet too far past comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the Upper Peninsula:
What is the Upper Peninsula in Michigan?
The Upper Peninsula in Michigan is the landmass connected by crossing the Mackinac Bridge and also shares a border with the top of the Wisconsin state.
The Upper Peninsula is home to plenty of amazing wildlife. With many streams and forests, it’s almost as if the land has been untouched by humanity. Those who enjoy many outdoor activities involved with camping would enjoy visiting the U.P.
What is the weather like in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?
The weather in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan has recorded a high of 84 degrees Fahrenheit during its summer months, which is from June through September.
The winter months are much colder and frigid than in other places; it can additionally be harder to predict when colder temperatures will arrive because of how temperamental the weather can be in Michigan.
What is the cheapest flight to the Upper Peninsula?
If you’re planning to fly to the Upper Peninsula, the cheapest flight would be dependent on where you’re flying from, the airline flying with, as well as the time of year you purchase the tickets, as well as the time of year that the tickets are for. If flying, it’s best to research and compare prices across airlines for your flight.
How long should I book my trip to the Upper Peninsula?
One exciting thing about the Upper Peninsula in summer is that there’s so much to do that you’ll never get bored, so no matter how long you have to spend on your trip, you’ll be able to fill it with lots of adventure or with rest and relaxation.
So, When Should You Visit the Upper Peninsula?
Taking a trip to any destination is always exciting and fun! If you’re looking to cross the Upper Peninsula off your traveling bucket list sometime soon, make sure you start by paying attention to the activities you want to do most on your vacation.
So, with so much to see and do, and countless opportunities to explore the serene beauty of Michigan, what are you waiting for — book your trip to the U.P. today!