Michigan's Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is seeking national recognition in USA TODAY's 2025 10Best State Parks competition, offering voters a glimpse into one of the Midwest's most extraordinary natural landscapes. The park, competing against 19 other nominees, represents a pristine wilderness that spans nearly 60,000 acres in the western Upper Peninsula.
The park's unique geological features include ancient rounded mountains rising to 1,958 feet above Lake Superior, making it a destination of significant ecological and recreational importance. With over 90 miles of hiking trails, more than 70 waterfalls, and 35,000 acres of untouched old-growth forest, the park provides unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Tom Nemacheck, executive director of the Upper Peninsula Travel and Recreation Association, emphasized the park's significance, describing it as the last great wilderness in the Midwest. The park offers year-round experiences for various outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, fishing, kayaking, and winter sports like snowmobiling and skiing.
Visitors can explore remarkable landmarks such as the Lake of the Clouds Overlook, Summit Peak Observation Tower, and Copper Peak, which offers rare panoramic views across three states. The park's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife and provides an immersive wilderness experience for travelers seeking authentic natural environments.
The USA TODAY contest allows readers to vote daily until May 12, with final rankings to be announced on May 21. This competition provides an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary natural beauty and recreational potential of state parks across the United States, with Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park standing out as a prime example of pristine wilderness preservation.
