Dickinson County combines museums with rafting, golf, and skiing. Particularly characteristic is the contrast between the mining history of the Menominee Iron Range and the undeveloped shores of Fumee Lake and Little Fumee Lake. Historical themes and landscapes thus appeal to different interests.
Mining and Regional History
The Iron Mountain Iron Mine operated from 1870 to 1945 and produced more than 22 million tons of iron ore. Its long operating period and production volume provide two concrete measures of the mining story: its duration and the scale of production. The Cornish Pumping Engine is designated both a Michigan Historic Site and a National Historic Site.
The Menominee Range Historical Museum features more than 100 exhibits about life in the Menominee Iron Range. The Jake Menghini Historical Museum focuses on local history, local industries, and cultural traditions, alongside rotating seasonal exhibits. The World War II Glider and Military Museum uses World War II footage and personal accounts from glider pilots and pilots to present its exhibits.
A structure on Holmes' Sturgeon River Farm was built in 1874.
Shorelines and Natural Areas
The Fumee Lake Natural Area covers more than 1,800 acres in Dickinson County. Fumee Lake and Little Fumee Lake together have five miles of undeveloped shoreline. The area is home to bald eagles, loons, and 17 orchid species. The figures for acreage, shoreline, and species highlight different aspects of this natural area.
Hiking and Watercraft
The Merriman East Pathway offers nine miles of scenic trails laid out as loops and is intended for hiking. At the trailhead, there is a restroom, ample parking, and a heated shelter. If you are planning a hike, you can use the loop trails and the facilities at the trailhead as practical points of reference.
Within the Menominee River State Recreation Area, two distinct points of reference can be identified: Piers Gorge is the northern unit; Pemene Falls has a boat launch for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Thus, the designation of a unit and a specific option for watercraft are different features.
Events and Orientation
The Dickinson County Fair is an annual event held at the fairgrounds in Norway, Michigan. Its dates vary from year to year, so check the current dates if you would like to plan your trip around the fair. The Pine Mountain Ski Jumping Tournament has been held for more than 70 years and is now the site of a FIS Continental Cup Tournament. Kramer Drive leads to the top of the Pine Mountain Ski Jump and the U.P. Veterans Memorial.
Discover more destinations: Iron Mountain, Ionia County, Alcona County, Cheboygan County, Gogebic County, Kalamazoo, Delta County, Macomb.
View the main travel overview: Michigan.
