Right Across the Road from Cedar Bay
Black Creek Nature Sanctuary
A 242-acre wilderness preserve with forest trails, beaver ponds, a creek-fed lagoon, and 1,500 feet of pristine Lake Superior shoreline.
A 242-acre wilderness preserve with forest trails, beaver ponds, a creek-fed lagoon, and 1,500 feet of pristine Lake Superior shoreline.
One of the Keweenaw's best-kept secrets starts right across the road from Cedar Bay Lakeside. Black Creek Nature Sanctuary, owned and protected by the Michigan Nature Association, offers an ever-changing hike through sandy dunes, towering birch and cedar forest, active beaver ponds, and a stunning lagoon where two cold-water creeks converge before flowing into Lake Superior.
The trail ends at a spectacular stretch of rocky shoreline with panoramic lake views in every direction — the perfect place to rest, explore, or watch the sunset before heading back through the woods.
The main trail begins at the parking area and winds through a sandy backdune landscape dotted with blueberry, bearberry, and lichen-covered rock. You'll pass through a forest of white birch, balsam fir, and northern white cedar before the sound of crashing waves tells you Lake Superior is close.
The trail opens onto a magnificent stretch of shoreline with views in every direction. Bring a snack — this is where you'll want to linger.
A spur trail takes you to the inside of the lagoon, where Black Creek and Hills Creek converge to create a large pond and wetland complex right next to the lake. This ever-changing feature is shaped by Superior's powerful waves and seasonal ice.
Watch for active beaver dams along the creek. Wolves, black bears, and moose have all been spotted within the sanctuary — keep your eyes open.
The trailhead is right across the road from Cedar Bay Lakeside — just walk out the door and you're there.
From Cedar Bay Lakeside, simply cross Cedar Bay Road. The Black Creek trailhead and MNA parking area are marked with a large Michigan Nature Association sign. The parking lot fits 6–8 vehicles, but you can also park along the road if it's full.
For GPS navigation to the trailhead, look for Black Creek Nature Sanctuary on Cedar Bay Road near Calumet, Michigan.
Exposed tree roots throughout the trail are the main hazard. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, especially after rain when roots get slippery.
The sanctuary is day-use only. No overnight camping, motorized vehicles, mountain bikes, or horses. Hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, and backcountry skiing are welcome.
The Lake Superior beach faces northwest — ideal for sunsets and northern lights. Bring a headlamp for the return hike if you stay for the show.
Beaver, whitetail deer, black bear, wolves, and moose have all been spotted here. Keep a respectful distance and store your food properly.
No facilities at the trailhead or along the trail. Bring water, snacks, and bug spray in summer. Cell service can be spotty.
The sanctuary is narrow in places and borders private property. Stick to the marked trail, especially in the first half mile. A trail map is posted at the main junction.
Lush forest, wildflowers in bloom, and warm-enough Lake Superior water for a quick dip at the beach. Bring bug spray and plan for a long afternoon — you won't want to leave the shoreline.
The birch and maple turn brilliant gold and crimson. Fall is arguably the most beautiful time to hike here, with cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and dramatic storm clouds rolling across the lake.
The trail transforms into a winter wonderland. Snowshoe or cross-country ski through snow-covered forest to see ice formations along the shore. The local MNA stewards lead an annual guided snowshoe hike.
Watch the ice recede from Superior's shore while wildflowers emerge along the trail. The creeks run high and the beaver ponds are at their most active. Spring is for solitude lovers.
Black Creek is just one of many adventures waiting for you on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Come for the lake, stay for the trails.
Book Your Stay