Importance:
The block of primary (uncut) forest of approximately 35,000 acres in
size is considered by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory to be
the “biggest and best tract of virgin Northern Hardwoods in North
America” and it is certainly one of the largest relatively
undisturbed northern hemlock-hardwood forests west of the
Adirondacks. The federal government has recognized the area as a
National Natural Landmark.
The Porcupine Mountains themselves arise
abruptly from Lake Superior to form a 12 mile long escarpment which
parallels the lakeshore for a distance of 1.5 miles. At 2 billion
years old, the mountains are a section of one of the oldest mountain
chains in the world. On the landward side of the escarpment is Lake
of the Clouds, which is one of the spectacular views to be found
from high peaks in the area. On a clear day, one may see more than
25 miles to the west.
Noted for its magnificent forests,
scenic vistas, over 90 miles of hiking trails, and striking geologic
formations, the park is also home to a number of endangered,
threatened and special concern species including small blue-eyed
mary, ram's head ladyslipper, Hooker’s fairy-bells, slender cliff
brake, male fern, gray wolf, wood turtle, peregrine falcon, merlin,
and bald eagle. In addition, visitors can see excellent examples
of wave-cut beaches carved by former glacial lake shore lines. . |
