Rock climbing in the Upper Peninsula offers great opportunities to explore the great outdoors.  Natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves and sandstone cliffs, just waiting to discovered.  The Pine Mountains in the Western Upper Peninsula and the Lake Superior shoreline with its cliffs and natural caves provide many opportunities for investigation and adventure.  It is a growing sport with even the DNR offering rock climbing workshops for women in the fall.

The Keweenaw Peninsula and several of the nearby islands offer opportunities for rock climbing and caving.  Cliff Drive is one location that draws climbers to Keweenaw County.  Beginners and vets alike will marvel over the steep and majestic terrains.  For other climbing opportunities contact the climbing club at the local college, Michigan Tech University.  The name of the club is the Ridge Roamers.  The club is open to the public and anyone is welcome to join.

Marquette also has some excellent climbing opportunities; including Sugarloaf Mountain, Presque Isle Park and Mount Marquette.  Northern Michigan University has an indoor climbing wall that is 1450 square feet.  Trained staff members are on hand to assist with climbs and teach proper technique.

The Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park or the “porkies” as they are known to the locals has 3 main peaks. The Escarpment which is 1400 feet, Government Peak which is 1850 feet and the Summit Peak, the highest peak at 1958 feet.

Ice climbing is also a popular sport in and around the Munising area.  Michigan Ice has held the Michigan Ice Fest there every year in February for the past 25 years.  Climbers gather to ascend the beautiful ice formations located the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.