Apple Blossom Trail & Heritage Trail

Explore Iron County’s Heritage Trail: A Journey Through History and Nature

Iron County, Michigan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history along its 14-site Heritage Trail. This self-guided tour brings the past to life—from mining legacies to Native American heritage—woven into the scenic backdrop of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Begin your adventure at the Iron County Heritage Museum in Caspian. Just across the road, you'll find the start of a paved, wheelchair-accessible trail that winds through historical and scenic sites. This multi-use path follows the route of the original railroad line that once carried iron ore through the region, passing through Caspian and Gaastra and ending at Pentoga Park, home to ancient Ojibwa burial grounds.

Along the way, you'll encounter the site of Harvey Mellen’s 1851 discovery of iron ore, a restored abandoned mine quarry now stocked with trout, and a tranquil waterfall on the Iron River. A whimsical sign at the trailhead even greets visitors in the “language” of dogs.

Other highlights on the trail include the Alpha Circle Historic District, the stately Iron County Courthouse in Crystal Falls, and the beautifully preserved Harbour House Museum. Further along, Fortune Pond, Lake Ottawa Recreation Area, and Camp Gibbs showcase how former mining and logging sites have been reclaimed by nature.

Each site tells a story—some of tragedy, some of triumph—all part of Iron County’s vibrant legacy. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just passing through, the Heritage Trail offers something meaningful at every turn.

Heritage Trail Map (PDF)

Check out our full list of local Hiking & Biking Trails