04 Gogebic Ridge Hiking Trail
wildlife viewing | directions and facility information
Photo: US Forest Service
Constructed
by the Youth Conservation Corps in 1977, this 8-mile linear hiking trail
is a great reason to leave the sidewalks and pavement behind. The trail
begins by skirting along Weary Lake, and then pauses at a rock ledge
overlooking Lake
Gogebic. The rock
ledge is known locally as Trap Hills and is one of the longest and
tallest cliff faces in Michigan.
The view from the top is well worth the hike. Parts of this trail closely
follow the Lake Gogebic-Iron River Indian Trail that was used more than
100 years ago. It bends and winds through rolling hills of mixed hardwood
and conifer trees before intersecting the North Country National Scenic
Trail.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Photo: © Dave Case
There is an excellent probability of
seeing many kinds of forest songbirds along the trail, including vireos,
thrushes, winter wrens, and ovenbirds, named for the small nest they
build on the forest floor that resembles a Dutch oven. Bald eagles and
kingfishers are seen occasionally on the banks of Weary Lake.
Openings along higher parts of the trail, offer a chance to view some
birds of prey such as red-tailed and broad-winged hawks and eagles.
Portions of this area
are open to public hunting. Contact the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources for hunting seasons and regulations.
 
Dutchmans
breeches
Pink Lady Slipper
Photos: US Forest Service
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