The Summit Peak Tower Trail at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park near LaFayette Landing, Michigan is a moderate 1-mile out-and-back hike that leads to two vista points with views of the Porcupine Mountains, one of which sits at the top of an observation tower.
Hike Description
This hike begins at the main trailhead, located on the north side of the circular parking lot. The trail heads uphill immediately and follows a bend to reduce the quick elevation change (note I skipped that in the GPS recording provided).
Stairs Begin - Mile 0.3
Around mile 0.3, hikers will reach a staircase that continues the ascent up to Summit Peak.
Observation Vista - Mile 0.35
Along the way is an observation platform, located down a couple sets of stairs which provides views facing north into the Porcupine Mountains. After enjoying this view, hikers will continue up more stairs to reach the tower.
Summit Peak Tower & Vista - Mile 0.5
At mile 0.5, hikers will reach the Summit Peak Tower which includes about 4 sets of staircases that lead to the top. From the top, hikers will get a 180-degree view of the surrounding Porcupine Mountains from just above the tree canopy. A keen-eyed hiker may spot the cliffs of the Lake of the Clouds Accessible Overlook.
Parking
Hikers will find a large parking lot which is spread out in segments around a large one-way driving circle, as of September 2022.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.
Hike Description
This hike begins at the main trailhead, located on the north side of the circular parking lot. The trail heads uphill immediately and follows a bend to reduce the quick elevation change (note I skipped that in the GPS recording provided).
Stairs Begin - Mile 0.3
Around mile 0.3, hikers will reach a staircase that continues the ascent up to Summit Peak.
Observation Vista - Mile 0.35
Along the way is an observation platform, located down a couple sets of stairs which provides views facing north into the Porcupine Mountains. After enjoying this view, hikers will continue up more stairs to reach the tower.
Summit Peak Tower & Vista - Mile 0.5
At mile 0.5, hikers will reach the Summit Peak Tower which includes about 4 sets of staircases that lead to the top. From the top, hikers will get a 180-degree view of the surrounding Porcupine Mountains from just above the tree canopy. A keen-eyed hiker may spot the cliffs of the Lake of the Clouds Accessible Overlook.
Parking
Hikers will find a large parking lot which is spread out in segments around a large one-way driving circle, as of September 2022.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.
