Hiawatha National Forest
Hiawatha National Forest stretches across both the northern and southern portions of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, bordered by Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron. The forest is characterized by limestone karst formations, sinkholes, coastal ecosystems, northern hardwoods, conifer swamps, and countless inland lakes. Glacial history dominates the landscape, producing rolling uplands, kettle depressions, and outwash plains. The forest supports black bear, gray wolf, bobcat, white-tailed deer, otter, loon, and numerous migratory birds. Extensive wetlands and coastal ecosystems support wild rice beds, pitcher-plant bogs, and unique shoreline habitats. Recreation opportunities include lighthouses, scenic drives, paddling routes, hiking trails, swimming beaches, fishing lakes, and seasonal snowmobiling. Dispersed camping is widely available, particularly along forest roads and near small inland lakes.