Best Spots To Elope In Copper Harbor

If you’re considering eloping, Copper Harbor, Michigan is a great spot to do it. There are plenty of gorgeous locations to choose from, and the rugged, natural scenery is unbeatable. Plus, you’ll have the charm of a small harbor town right at your fingertips.

You may not want to take the time and expense of a big wedding. Both of you know what you’re getting into, and don’t need fancy things like sequins or white tablecloths to tell you. You just want something that reflects your own tastes- an intimate ceremony that is tailored specifically for YOU!

Consider eloping in Copper Harbor, where we can create a memorable ceremony for an unforgettable day. What could be more perfect?

Why elope in Copper Harbor?

Copper Harbor, Michigan is a small village with a rich history. In addition to being an amazing place for couples looking for their perfect elopement location, it’s also a great spot for families who want something different than your typical beach vacation. The town has some of the best hiking and mountain biking in Michigan. It’s a mecca for outdoor & nature lovers. There are plenty of places to get married, from the rugged shores of Lake Superior to on top of a mountain.

Here are some of my favorite spots to elope in Copper Harbor. Keep reading for more details and information on each spot!

1. Hunter’s Point Park
2. Horseshoe Harbor
3. Estivant Pines
4. Brockway Mountain
5. Esrey Park
6. Isle Royale National Park
7. Keweenaw Mountain Lodge
8. Harbor Haus

1. Hunter’s Point Park

If you’re thinking about eloping, Hunter’s Point Park is a great place to do it! The park has gorgeous views of Lake Superior, and it’s only a minute from the village of Copper Harbor. Plus, there are plenty of places to get married in the park, so you can find the perfect spot for your special day. If you’re lucky, you might spot one of the Bald Eagles that hang out here! So if you’re looking for a beautiful and convenient place to elope, Hunter’s Point State Park is definitely worth considering.

Best time of year:

Any time of year is great at Hunter’s Point, except for the late spring which is black fly season. Peak black fly season in Michigan is usually from mid-May to mid-June. The flies can become thick clouds near water and they pack a very painful bite!

Privacy:

Hunter’s Point is a popular spot for tourists and locals. In tourist season (July through October) you can expect the park to be busiest on weekends and around sunset. However, the most popular spot (Agate Beach) is generally where most people are. No matter when you go, there are plenty of other “hidden” spots in the park. I’d be happy to show you some of them!

How to get there:

Hunter’s Point is just a short drive (less than 3 minutes) from the small town of Copper Harbor. There is ample parking and there are spots to elope all throughout the park. The shortest walk/hike would be next to the parking lot and the longest would be around a half-hour. The trails are rugged with lots of roots and rocks.

Permit/fee info:

At this time you don’t need a permit to elope at Hunter’s Point Park. It’s owned by Michigan’s DNR, so if you’re thinking of setting up chairs/an arch, I’d recommend reaching out to the DNR to see if you need permission. There are no fees.

Leave No Trace:

Hunter’s Point Park is a sacred natural location and is beloved by many. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces, and avoid stepping on tree roots. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Do not take rocks (this is important as it helps avoid erosion and it’s also illegal here).

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2. Horseshoe Harbor

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path elopement spot with breathtaking views, then this will be the perfect place! Nestled in a secluded location north of Copper Harbor, Horseshoe Harbor offers stunning Lake Superior views. The lakeshore is shaped like a horseshoe (hence the name) and there are also ancient giant lava rock formations that you can climb onto and get even better views!

Best time of year:

Any time of year is great at Horseshoe Harbor, except for the late spring which is black fly season. Peak black fly season in Michigan is usually from mid-May to mid-June. The flies can become thick clouds near water and they pack a very painful bite.

Privacy:

Horseshow Harbor is relatively quiet and peaceful at all times. There are typically a few hikers & sightseers who wander the area, but you should be able to have a mostly private ceremony at any time.

How to get there:

To get to Horseshow Harbor you will travel north on US-41 for 10 minutes from Copper Harbor to the end of the highway. From there you continue on a wide, flat dirt road for about 5 minutes, then turn onto a rustic seasonal road. This road has large potholes and can have water. You don’t need a special vehicle to get there, but you’ll have to go slow. You will walk down a trail through the woods for 10 minutes to get to the beach. The trail is mostly flat but does have roots and rocks that must be navigated so is not recommended for wheelchairs or people with difficulty walking.

Permit/fee info:

There is no park fee or permit required to elope here. This location could accommodate elopements with up to 25 guests.

Leave No Trace:

Horseshoe Harbor is a sacred natural place and is beloved by many. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces, and avoid stepping on tree roots. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Do not take rocks (this is important as it helps avoid erosion).

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3. Estivant Pines

Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary is a 508-acre nature sanctuary in Keweenaw County, Michigan. It is maintained and preserved by the Michigan Nature Association.

If you are looking for an ancient, peaceful wedding spot, Estivant Pines in Copper Harbor is the perfect place for your elopement. With majestic, old-growth white pines and an abundance of nature, this secluded location will provide memories that will last forever.

Best time of year:

Late May to the first snow. In the winter the roads to Estivant Pines are not cleared and are nearly impossible to drive on. However, if you’re open to traveling by snowmobile and snowshoe, Estivant Pines is gorgeous in winter! In the warmest months (July-September) mosquitoes can be a big nuisance here.

Privacy:

Estivant Pines is never crowded and is only moderately busy with nature-lovers in the warmer months. There are plenty of spots on the trails that would offer privacy.

How to get there:

To get to Estivant Pines you will travel about 15 minutes away from Copper Harbor into the wilderness of the Keweenaw. Half of the roads there are unkept dirt seasonal roads that can have large potholes and water. You don’t need a special vehicle to get there, but you’ll have to go slow. The trails are mostly easy and can accommodate any level hiker/walker.

Permit/fee info:

As of now there is no park fee or permit required to elope here. If you are bringing guests and want to set anything up, I recommend reaching out to the Michigan Nature Association.

Leave No Trace:

Estivant Pines is a sacred nature sanctuary. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces, and avoid stepping on tree roots. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Use the provided bathroom facility.

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4. Brockway Mountain

If you’re a couple who loves epic views, eloping at Brockway Mountain in Copper Harbor is one of the most beautiful and memorable experiences. The ceremony will take place on the mountain overlooking Lake Superior, so as you say your vows to each other surrounded by nature’s beauty, it’ll feel like only the two of you are present. In addition to being private and intimate, an outdoor ceremony is perfect for those who want something low-key or have been dreaming about getting married outside in Michigan.

Best time of year:

Any time of year is great on Brockway Mountain. However, Brockway Mountain Drive is a seasonal road and is not maintained in the winter.

Privacy:

The top of Brockway Mountain is enjoyed by tourists, sightseers, and mountain bikers. In the warmer months, it can be somewhat crowded on weekends and around sunset. However, there is plenty of room on Brockway and there are lots of options for spots that can be mostly to completely private. I’d be happy to show you!

How to get there:

Brockway Mountain Drive is a 9.5 mile seasonal paved road that winds its way over the mountain from one end to the other. You will park somewhere along this road, depending on where you decide to have your ceremony. The east end of the drive meets M-26 right next to Copper Harbor.

*If you’re up for a 5-mile, somewhat challenging hike, Mt. Baldy is an AMAZING spot for an elopement ceremony that features epic views and is never crowded! Here it is in winter.

Permit/fee info:

There are no fees or permits required to elope here.

Leave No Trace:

Brockway Mountain is a sacred natural location. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Use the provided bathroom facilities.

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5. Esrey Park

Esrey Park is a small roadside park located about 15 minutes from Copper Harbor on M-26. It features amazing rocky cliffs that are formed from ancient lava and look out over Lake Superior. There are two old, stone staircases that you can use to get to the top. There is also a very small wooden gazebo and modern bathrooms. This is a perfect spot at sunset because in the warmer months you can watch the sun set into Lake Superior.

Best time of year:

Any time of year is great at Esrey Park, except for the late spring which is black fly season. Peak black fly season in Michigan is usually from mid-May to mid-June. The flies can become thick clouds near water and they pack a very painful bite!

Privacy:

Esrey isn’t typically very busy, but in the peak tourist season can be busier on the weekends and at sunset. People are usually very friendly and accomodating if they are around, so you shouldn’t have to worry about them.

How to get there:

Drive west on M-26 about 15 minutes from Copper Harbor and the park is located right on the side of the road.

Permit/fee info:

There are no fees or permits required to elope here.

Leave No Trace:

Esrey Park is a sacred natural place and is beloved by many. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces, and avoid stepping on tree roots. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Do not take rocks (this is important as it helps avoid erosion).

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6. Isle Royale National Park

Would you like to get married on a remote island in the middle of Lake Superior? If so, then you should consider eloping at Isle Royale National Park! As we all know, weddings can be expensive and stressful. So why not cut out all the extra stress and just elope with your significant other for a private ceremony on an island that is only accessible by boat or seaplane? You will experience an amazing adventure as you explore the lakeshore, hike through forests full of wildlife and enjoy some time off from modern life. Plus, it’s hard to beat spending your first night as a married couple camping under the stars!

*I have not been to Isle Royale yet (as of now) but I am dying to go!

Best time of year:

May through October. Isle Royale closes from November 1 through April 15, annually.

Isle Royale is as remote and rugged as you can get. Be aware that there can be black flies in late spring, as well as mosquitoes in the summer. The island is home to many species of wildlife, some dangerous, including wolves and moose.

Privacy:

You can have a completely private ceremony here.

How to get there:

The ISLE ROYALE QUEEN IV passenger ferry operates between Copper Harbor, Michigan, and Rock Harbor at Isle Royale National Park. It’s a 3-hour ride. Seaplanes from Houghton to Isle Royale are also available.

Permit/fee info:

There is a non-refundable $50 application fee for a special use permit. The permit fee is $100. An additional fee of $50 per hour may apply.

Click here for more permit information and to apply.

Leave No Trace:

Isle Royale National Park is a sacred natural location. Please do not litter, stay on trails and durable surfaces. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. Do not feed or approach the wildlife. Campfires only allowed at specific campsites. Click here for the Isle Royale Leave No Trace guide.

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7. Keweenaw Mountain Lodge

The last two Copper Harbor elopement spots are venues, in case you’re wanting an option that is indoors or offers a more inclusive experience than eloping in nature.

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that is intimate, low-key, and just downright easy then eloping at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge may be the perfect option. Located in beautiful Copper Country Michigan, this lodge offers couples an unforgettable destination wedding experience.

Details:

The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge is a wilderness resort nestled in the mountains next to Copper Harbor. Stay in a log cabin, eat a meal at the Lodge, and enjoy the outdoor activities on the property and in the area, including a 9-hole golf course.

Click here for more information on weddings and elopements at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge.

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8. Harbor Haus

The Harbor Haus restaurant is located right on Lake Superior in Copper Harbor, Michigan. Established in 1974, the Harbor Haus has maintained a tradition of exceptional cuisine and outstanding service. The atmosphere is bavarian. They offer private dining with table service or an outdoor venue. The spectacular Lake Superior view is an amazing backdrop.

Harbor Haus is not open in winter.

Details:

Click here for more information on weddings and elopements at Harbor Haus.

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Copper Harbor insider tips

Copper Harbor is the Northernmost town in Michigan. It is located in the beautiful Upper Peninsula at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, surrounded by Lake Superior. It is small, remote, and fairly rugged. Copper Harbor has around 90 residents. In the summer that number increases to over 350.

If you’re used to the conveniences and options of modern living, Copper Harbor might surprise you! There is one gas station, with two pumps, and they are only open during limited times. There is one small general store- “The Genny” where you can stock up on pantry items, beer & liquor, or other household necessities. Copper harbor has a handful of good restaurants and lots of gift shops in tourist season. The nearest larger city is Calumet, about 45 minutes from Copper Harbor.

Tourist season in Copper Harbor is July through October. It’s busy during these times! Copper Harbor lodging and restaurants have limited availability and book up in advance, so be sure to make your plans as early as possible!

Some places to stay:

• The Mariner North Resort
• Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground
• Trails End Campground
• AirBnb

Places to eat:

• Harbor Haus
• Lake Effect Bar & Grill
• The Mariner
• The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge
• The Fish Truck (in summer, across from “The Genny”)
• Rodeo Food Truck (in summer, at Trail’s End Campground)
• Jamsen’s Bakery & Cafe
• The Tamarack Inn (breakfast & lunch)
• Thimbleberry Shop (ice cream & snacks)
• Sundae in the Park (ice cream & subs)
• The Berry Patch (ice cream)

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Wherever you decide to elope in Copper Harbor, the scenic beauty will make your wedding day unforgettable. Copper Harbor is the perfect place to elope in Michigan!