Big Bay, Michigan is the small Upper Peninsula town you likely have never heard of despite its many charms.
The town of Big Bay began in the mid 1800s when industrialists from Quebec came to the area for white pine for building ships in Europe. This soon resulted in being one of the Upper Peninsulas many lumber towns. In fact, the Brunswick company had a sawmill located here, and is said to have produced 90% of the world’s bowling pins at one time.
Brunswick left in the 1930’s and none other than Henry Ford himself came to buy up most of the town {and a lot of the Upper Peninsula}. Ford used the sawmill for wood paneling on cars, and made the town’s company store — now called Thunder Bay Inn — into a resort area for his employees.
Like many Upper Peninsula towns, Big Bay’s population dwindled after Ford’s death and the decline of the lumber boom, and has been small ever since. Today, it is known for being a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. So when Erin invited my family to stay at her amazing house that sleeps 12 — Skyfall — on Big Bay, I had to say yes!
If you’re looking for a place away from it all and beautiful, her rental on Big Bay is a welcome retreat. Since it’s on the bay, the water is warmer and calmer, making Lake Superior refreshing versus the numbing cold she seems to be elsewhere. We had a wonderful time splashing in the waves, and enjoying the sandy shoreline.
Airbnb link | VRBO link
How beautiful is this home and property? We loved having so much space inside and beautiful shoreline to explore! This was definitely one of the best stocked rentals we’ve stayed in. It’s also dog-friendly!
If you’re looking for other ideas in the area, there is plenty for families to enjoy!
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Yellow Dog River Falls
If you enjoy a rustic hike through the woods, this one cannot be beat! It’s absolutely stunning with the smell of pine surrounding you. Just follow the trail and sound of water to be greeted with a breathtaking falls. The trail is approximately 2 miles, out and back.
Obviously always a great idea to use bug spray before hitting the trail. Surprisingly this one wasn’t too bad since we went mid-day.
Thomas Rock Scenic Outlook
Thomas Rock is is a scenic outlook with a lovely loop through the woods that is universally accessible.
Photos definitely do not do this outlook justice. I can only imagine what it would look like during the fall!
Fishing
If you have kids that love fishing like mine, fishing in the dam and in Independence Lake are a great time. In fact, the largest Yellow Perch ever caught in Michigan was landed here by George Slutter from Big Bay. The fish was 21 inches and nearly four pounds! There are also local charter boats, which is absolutely on my radar for next time. {Sore Arm’s is located right in Big Bay.}
Eat at two historical spots
There aren’t a lot of restaurants in the area, but the two there are delicious and have great history.
The Thunder Bay Inn was once Henry Ford’s own little resort, and there is great bar food and an adjoining room full of historical artifacts. We had so much fun exploring.
The other restaurant is what put Big Bay on the map in the 1950s — Lumberjack Tavern. It was actually {sadly} the scene of a murder, and eventually a book and movie called Anatomy of a Murder was produced following the story. {There are copies of both at Skyfall.} Today, you can visit to learn about its history and enjoy a round of pool and a delicious, simple burger.
Enjoy Lake Superior
Lake Superior is by far the largest of the Great Lakes. She is the coldest too! Luckily, the bay provides shelter from the expansive lake, and is a calm place for stand-up paddle boarding {available at Skyfall} and kayaking. We loved having our own private section of sandy beach to enjoy the water and watch the sunset.
Take a Relaxing Drive to Marquette
If you’re looking for a little more action, Marquette is a beautiful 40-minute drive. On the way, be sure to stop at Sugarloaf Mountain for some epic views! A few of our other favorites in Marquette included Wright Street Falls, The Black Rocks/Presque Isle, Dockers for food and candy and Black Rocks Brewery. There is plenty to do to fill a day!
Thank you to Erin at Skyfall for graciously providing our accommodations. The house was perfect!
Have you visited this area? If so, what are some of your family’s favorites?
More ideas for Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula
More ideas for Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula
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