Elopements
So you’re here because you want to take advantage of the underrated places of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for your elopement. If you’re like me you know that the best places are known by the locals. This elopement guide will walk you through the best places in the Yoop.
Table Of Contents
Let’s focus on four main areas of the U.P. Let’s start with the center: Marquette, MI. Being based out of Marquette, allows me to have a deep knowledge of the best places to elope in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Black Rocks
For you if: you want to adventure close to breweries/nightlife.
This area is located in Presque Isle Park, also known as The Island to the yoopers (another name for a local). This 323-acre forested oval-shaped mini peninsula juts into Lake Superior at the northern tip of the City and has amazing lakeside views and an interior trail system. This spot is the most touristy of the four in this guide. However, if you know when and where to go this is a serene park for your elopement. The loop that is the easiest way to get to Black Rocks has daily hours that are closed to vehicle traffic for a few hours throughout the week.
All motor vehicles are prohibited from traveling around the back portion of the Island during:
- Monday and Wednesday 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Tuesday and Thursday 7:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 7:00 am to 10:00 am
Best Time to go: July-September: weekday, sunset
There are no dogs allowed in the park.
Little Presque Isle
For you if: you want a versatile elopement location
Not to be confused with our first location, Little Presque Isle is outside of the city and known as the crown jewel of Lake Superior. You will need a permit if setting up items like an arch or having a group of people for a ceremony. The recreational area has interesting rock formations, a lakeshore, and forest vibes with those classic vertical lines created by tall pines. This spot is along the North Country Trail, which comes to a point toward the island. You’ll be able to enjoy a variety of things if eloping here; hiking, swimming, boating, cliff jumping, biking, etc. In addition, there are a variety of settings for photos/footage (sand, forest, water, rocks).
Best time to go: June-September: weekday or weekend, sunrise
Dogs are allowed here on a 6-foot leash. Parking is available.
Wetmore Landing
For you if: you want a scenic hike to your elopement spot
You can drive or hike to this next location, which is right off of county road 550. Also along the North Country Trail, Wetmore Landing is a great place to start a hike for an elopement ceremony spot. You can hike to or from Little Presque Isle point and this is a great spot to start a hike to Rum Runners Cove, which is an old bootleggers smuggle site. While this is a great starting point it is a great location in itself because there are trails covered in soft pine needles surrounded by tall trees that offer a canopy of green. Along with forest it’s a short walk to the beach and interesting rock formations for exploring.
Best Time to go: a weekday, sunrise
Dogs are allowed here on a 6-foot leash. Parking is available.
Bonus Location
Rum Runners, which has a rich history in connection with prohibition, is a great spot if you’re an experienced hiker or comfortable traversing over rocks. This is a great spot for a swim in the summer but like with all hikes you’ll need to be vigilant, especially on Lake Superior. This is one of my favorite spots along Lake Superior for couples who want to explore via rocks or water.
Sugarloaf Mountain
For you if: you want epic views from a high point
This is a well-loved hike in the Marquette community so be aware that it is a highly trafficked trail to the top (unless you know when and where to go). After getting to the parking lot, start the hike by either choosing the easy trail or difficult trail, which are posted near the beginning of the hike. On the way up you’ll use the steps provided, which are peppered with rest areas if needed. Once up to the top, around 1,000 feet above sea level, you’ll get amazing views of the whole Marquette area — Mother Superior, the Superior Dome, Wetmore Landing, Presque Isle, Hogback Mountain just to name a few. Also up top are multiple rock outcroppings perfect for a spot to say your vows. My favorite time to go is in the fall with all the colors surrounding you on the way up and when you get to the top.
Best Time to go: August-October: a weekday, sunrise if you want the light over the lake, sunset if you want the light going down behind Hogback Mountain (the larger point in the area).
Things to consider: Avoid planning your elopement date when university events, like Parents Weekend, are happening as they typically encourage families to explore the area, resulting in a very busy trial regardless of time of day. Also look into other events and races that may be happening in the area.
Bonus Spots:
Other favorite spots are Hidden Beach, Hogback Mountain, Echo Lake, and Wetmore Pond.
If you’re looking for a local creative to photograph or capture your elopement with video, reach out — I would love to location scout for the perfect spot.
