Overview
The Porcupine Mountains Escarpment Trail follows the ridge above the Lake of the Clouds in the boundary zone between Ottawa National Forest and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, offering some of the most spectacular views in the Midwest. The 4.0-mile out-and-back traces the escarpment west from the Lake of the Clouds overlook, high above the Carp River valley and the old-growth forest spread below.
No permit is required for the national forest sections. A state park day-use fee may apply at the Lake of the Clouds trailhead (as of 2026). Dogs are welcome on leash.
The Route
Miles 0 to 0.5: Lake of the Clouds overlook. From the parking area on M-107, a short path leads to the Lake of the Clouds overlook, one of Michigan's most photographed views. The lake sits in the Carp River valley below the escarpment, surrounded entirely by old-growth hemlock and northern hardwood forest. On clear days the view extends across the forest canopy toward Lake Superior.
Miles 0.5 to 2.0: Escarpment traverse. The trail follows the escarpment ridge west, staying close to the rim with repeated views over the valley. The escarpment surface is rocky and rooted, requiring careful footing. The forest on the ridge top is primarily maple and yellow birch. The national forest boundary is unmarked but the trail passes through both state park and national forest land. The turnaround point is at a secondary overlook where the escarpment begins its descent to the west.
Return. Retrace the ridge back to the overlook and trailhead.
When to Hike
Late September and October for fall color, when the escarpment maple forest peaks in orange, gold, and red. The Lake of the Clouds view at peak color is exceptional.
June through August for green forest and easier trail conditions. Morning visits avoid afternoon crowds at the Lake of the Clouds overlook.
Winter snowshoeing is possible on the escarpment when snow is firm. The Lake of the Clouds view is striking in winter.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1 to 1.5 liters of water. There is no water source on the escarpment trail itself. Sturdy footwear is recommended for the rocky ridge terrain. Layers are useful as escarpment winds can be cool even in summer.
Trailhead Access
M-107 west from Silver City and White Pine in the western Upper Peninsula. The Lake of the Clouds overlook parking area is well signed from the state park entrance. Silver City is about 15 miles north of US-2 near Wakefield. The drive from Ironwood takes about 45 minutes.
Nearby
The Black River Waterfalls trail and Sturgeon River Gorge Trail are the other major Ottawa hikes with dramatic terrain character. See the full Ottawa National Forest guide for the complete picture. Follow Leave No Trace principles on the escarpment ridge.