Viewing Plants Areas

• East Zone

  The East Unit of the Hiawatha National Forest is located in the east side of the Upper Peninsula, bordering three of the Great Lakes:

  • Lake Superior
  • Lake Michigan
  • Lake Huron

  The eastern portion stretches north from the town of St. Ignace, which lies along Lakes Michigan and Huron, to the shore of Lake Superior west of the city of Sault Ste. Marie.

• St. Ignace Ranger District

  The St. Ignace Ranger District is located on the lower half of the east side of the Forest (southeastern portion of the Upper Peninsula). 

• St Ignace District Native Plant Gardens
• Grand Island National Recreation Area

  Bring the family, friends or yourself and check out Grand Island National Recreation Area!

  Grand Island is located in Lake Superior, about one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. Munising is about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique.

  Grand Island is the perfect place to spend a day or even just a few hours biking, exploring, and appreciating nature. Please be aware that, in keeping with agency interim direction, the non-motorized trails (e.g. all bike trails) are not open to eBikes. The island is an exciting and secluded destination that offers: 

  • Breathtaking overlooks
  • Pristine sandy beaches
  • Fascinating cultural sites
  • Deep hardwoods
  • Inland lakes

  Online maps are available: Grand Island Recreation Area Map.

  How to Reach Grand Island: 

  Visitors can reach the island via passenger ferry or private watercraft. 

  The ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28 about 2.5 miles west of the Munising's blinking light. Look for the Grand Island National Recreation Area signs.  

  Some campsites are conveniently located for kayakers.

  History of Grand Island: 

  If you're interested in the island's history, check out the Grand Island 25th Anniversary Page (archived).

• Grand Island Farm Field
• West Zone

  The West Unit is located in the central of the Upper Peninsula, bordering two of the Great Lakes - Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. The western portion of the Hiawatha extends from the towns of Rapid River and Manistique, along Lake Michigan, to the town of Munising on the Lake Superior shore.  For information about free educational campground programs on these three Ranger Districts, visit the Events page.

• Munising Ranger District

  Munising Ranger District is located on the northern part of the west side of the Hiawatha National Forest. Stop by for up-to-date information and suggestions for your trip.

• Munising Ranger District Native Gardens