Copper Peak in Ironwood Township stands as a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts ready to engage with a landscape both demanding and rewarding. At 1,200 feet tall, it claims the title of the largest ski flying hill in North America, offering a unique vantage point and a range of activities that test your stamina and sharpen your senses.

Begin your journey on the main hiking trail—a 2.6-mile loop with an elevation gain of approximately 600 feet. The path is primarily forested, weaving through a resilient stand of pines and birch that challenge sunlight to break through. The terrain is uneven in parts, with rocky patches and roots daring you to plant your feet firmly. This trail demands steady footing but rewards with progressively expansive views as you ascend.

The summit platform is the day’s highlight. It stretches across Copper Peak’s iconic ski flying ramp where the wind seems to push forward with a quiet insistence. From here, you can watch the surrounding forests spill into Lake Superior's distant shimmer, the horizon framed by the rugged peaks of the Ottawa National Forest. The space here is not just a place to rest but a point to breathe the fierce openness of the Northern Michigan outdoors.

For those less inclined to hike, Copper Peak offers a summer lift ride that elevates visitors to the top with ease, releasing you into the same panoramic encounter without the physical strain. Whether by foot or chair, time your visit to catch early morning clarity or late afternoon’s softening light—the atmosphere shifts, revealing different layers of the landscape’s character.

Practical preparation is essential: sturdy hiking shoes with good grip will handle the rocky incline, and layering breath-friendly clothing guards against unpredictable northern winds. Hydration is crucial—bring at least two liters of water, especially during warm months. The trail crosses several patches where shade is scarce, so plan your timing to avoid peak midday heat.

Copper Peak's appeal extends beyond its physical features. It is an engagement with the environment as a force—unyielding yet inviting. The forests around whisper stories of copper miners and skiers alike, while seasonal creatures stir, reminding visitors that the land remains intensely alive underfoot and overhead. Adventure here is about respect and curiosity, rewarding those who walk attentively and prepare adequately.

Whether you choose to hike, ride, or explore surrounding activities like mountain biking and bird watching, Copper Peak offers a clear and potent slice of Michigan’s wild north. Approach the trails with readiness, and you’ll find the experience as practical as it is exhilarating.