Monocle Lake Interpretive Trail

Monocle Lake Interpretive Trail is considered an easy to intermediate 2-mile long hike surrounded by beauty and wildlife.

• Park in the large, paved parking area, then head east toward the boat launch.
• From the boat launch take in the beauty of Monocle Lake and the sea of trees that line it.
• The trail begins in Monocle Lake Recreation Area by the picnic tables off Monocle Lake.

Accessibility at Monocle Lake:

• The first 1,000 feet includes an elevated boardwalk.
• A wildlife viewing platform meets the universal guidelines for accessibility.
• This is a great place to connect with nature.
• Benches for resting along the trail make this a good option for people with low stamina.

Scenic Hiking Along Ancient Bluffs:

• Beyond the viewing platform,  Moncole Lake Interpretive Trail becomes more rustic as it follows the Monocle Lake shoreline.
• A scenic loop leads to a bluff climbing and descending more than 200 feet in elevation.
• These bluffs are the old Lake Superior shoreline of 10,000 years ago!
• In the Fall, this area is especially beautiful. Be sure to add it to your Upper Peninsula color tour!

Bicycles Not Recommended:

Because the trail is narrow and steep after the wildlife viewing platform, we do not recommend bicycle use.

At a Glance