Visit Keweenaw shares that the state and TNC have found a way to Bare Bluff and the Montreal Falls after several years without recreational access. The Michigan DNR and the Nature Conservancy have determined new access for visitors to Bare Bluff and the Montreal Falls. For several years’ public use of the private road, Smith Fishery Road, to access both recreation sites was tolerated. But gates were placed on the road in the last couple of years to dissuade travelers. Private landowners noted that use of the road had increased in recent years, as did the cost to maintain Smith Fishery Road. Since the gates were installed, the community has struggled to find access to the falls and bluffs. TNC’s recent purchase of the Keweenaw Heartlands, as well as adjacent state land has a single former forest road that crosses both properties and can access the locations.
From Copper Harbor travel to the end of US-41 continuing onto Manden Road for approximately 7.5 miles to Hoar Lake Road and turn south. Travel 1.6 miles on Hoar Lake Road to the Hoar Lake Loop and turn west. Travel on the Hoar Lake Loop for 0.6 miles, until reaching an un-named forest road heading west. Park alongside this road to begin your hike.
Both organizations advise not to take a vehicle down this road as berms have been placed in several locations. The hike to the mouth of the falls will travel 1.3 miles. Those interested in viewing a trail map, road directions, and more information about the Bare Bluffs and Montreal Falls can find more information below.
Getting to Bare Bluff will require a longer hike out. From Montreal Falls visitors will need to cross the river and take the former shoreline access trail to Smith Fishery Road. And walk along the road to the Bare Bluff Shoreline Wilderness Preserve and the Russell and Miriam Grinnell Memorial Nature Sanctuary at Bare Bluff.
As with many recreation locations at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, cell phone signal is limited. Prepare for hikes with proper hydration, clothing, shoes and a hike plan. The Keweenaw County Sheriff and emergency response in wilderness areas may take time to find your location. Anyone with questions about the public access to the Montreal Falls and Bare Bluff should contact Visit Keweenaw for more details.
Bare Bluff, contact the Michigan Nature Association for more information about the Russell and Miriam Grinnell Memorial Nature Sanctuary at Bare Bluff here.
Michigan DNR Forest Resource Division suggested route to Montreal Falls
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