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Les Cheneaux Islands State Park adventures

Les Cheneaux Islands State Park Adventures

Les Cheneaux Islands State Park offers a unique waterfront experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, featuring pristine shoreline, wooded islands, and diverse water-based recreation.

7,700
Acres Protected
5
Miles of Trails
50,000 (estimated)
Annual Visitors
1945
Year Established

About Les Cheneaux Islands State Park

 

Les Cheneaux Islands State Park is located on the eastern shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along the northern edge of Lake Huron. The park comprises approximately 7,700 acres of land and water, including forested mainland and a chain of 36 small islands within the Les Cheneaux archipelago. The park’s geography is defined by crystal-clear waters, sheltered bays, and dense hardwood forests dominated by maple, oak, and pine species. The islands and mainland provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, waterfowl, and numerous fish species. Historically, the area was home to the Anishinaabe peoples and later became a hub for early fur trading and boating activities. Today, Les Cheneaux Islands State Park is renowned for exceptional paddle sports, particularly kayaking and canoeing, allowing visitors to explore quiet bays, narrow channels, and sandy beaches. The park’s relatively undeveloped shoreline provides a peaceful retreat suitable for bird watching, fishing, and nature photography. Visitors can hike short nature trails through forested areas or relax at facilities near the water. Its proximity to nearby towns like Cedarville makes it easily accessible while remaining largely undisturbed. The park’s appeal lies in its combination of water access, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure opportunities, ideal for families, paddlers, anglers, and campers seeking a less commercialized Great Lakes experience.

Highlights

Highlight

The extensive chain of 36 islands providing diverse paddling routes and sheltered waters

Highlight

Pristine sandy beaches and bays ideal for swimming and fishing

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Rich birdlife including regularly sighted bald eagles and ospreys

Highlight

Quiet nature trails through mixed hardwood and conifer forests on the mainland

Notable Natural Features

Les Cheneaux Islands Archipelago

A chain of 36 islands offering sheltered waters for paddling, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Mainland Nature Trails

Several short trails winding through mixed hardwood forests and along scenic lake shores.

Sandy Beaches

Calm, natural beaches ideal for swimming, relaxing, and launching watercraft.