Autumn Is the Right Time to Visit Copper Peak

Capture the magnificent landscapes that only the Upper Peninsula of Michigan can provide with a trip to the International Copper Peak Ski Flying Hill and Recreation Complex, just northeast of Ironwood.

Known simply by locals as Copper Peak, the ski-flying hill is the only such facility outside of Europe. Thousands of visitors each year enjoy riding the chairlift and then the elevator to take in the views from the top of this unique attraction (for a fee).

The mammoth structure rises some 241 feet above the crest of Chippewa Hill, a copper-bearing rock outcrop. An 18-story elevator provides access to the observation deck. Climbing the additional 60 feet stairs to the top starting gate will allow the visitor to “experience” the feelings of the ski flyer about to launch himself down the 469-foot inrun. No wonder the operators of the facility aptly named the trip up Copper Peak’s Adventure Ride!

From the top of Copper Peak, it is possible to see 40 or more miles in every direction. The fall colors of the mixed conifers and hardwoods of the Ottawa National Forest and the Black River Scenic Byway are unequaled anywhere.

The view overlooking Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park is truly impressive. Bring binoculars if you want to see the hills near Grand Marais, Minnesota, or Isle Royale National Park, visible some 70 miles to the north on a clear day. It goes almost without saying, but bring your camera, as Copper Peak is a photographer’s dream.

Article and photo by Dean S. Acheson.