Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor – Aug 18, 2013
The short trail down to Horseshoe Harbor in the Mary Macdonald Preserve really is not anything special. It is just a rocky walk through a fairly dense forest. However, when break out of the woods on to the red cobble beach of the harbor you will see why this beautiful area has been protected. To north is huge bedrock wall that protects the natural harbor. The wall slants down into the water and turns into a chain of small islands sinking into the blue water of Lake Superior. We were here on a clam day, but this must an incredible place to be when the wind and waves are kicking up from the north.
On our second afternoon in Copper Harbor we drove out towards the end of the Keweenaw Peninsula and visited the Mary Mcdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor. After turning off the main road it is just over a mile down the narrow dirt road to the trailhead. A few spots were at little rough but you should be able to make it even in a small car. Although, we did see a couple groups that parked their cars by the turnoff and walked down to the trailhead.
There are a few pull off parking spots on the right side of the road and the beginning of the trail to Horseshoe Harbor is marked with the post shown above.
A rough and rocky trail heads slightly down hill toward Lake Superior.
After about 0.35 miles you break out of the woods and on to the red rock shore of Horseshoe Harbor.
A panoramic of the harbor standing by the rock wall on the west end of the Harbor.
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I
Reid learned that the bigger the rock…the bigger the splash.
While the kids were busy throwing rocks I climbed up to the top of the rock wall for a couple photos.
After throwing rocks into the lake for a while it was time to head back up the trail. Because of the flooded trail the hike was shorter than we planned, but it was still an interesting place to visit. We will have to bring sandals next time and try it again.
Directions to the trailhead >>
More info on the Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor >>
If you are going to be outside hiking with children under 3 years old a good backpack carrier is a must. We started with a cheap off brand carrier, but quickly realized we needed to upgrade to the Kelty. The adjustable hip belt on the Kelty was the only one we found that was long enough for taller people. The integrated sun shade and side screen also helps keep the bugs off your little hiker.
Search for Kelty Child Carriers on Amazon >>
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