THE GOVERNMENT NEWS DESKPERMANENT NPS STORY ARCHIVE
Organized by publication date and destination. Each story retains its permanent State & Nation address and official NPS source.
Isle Royale National Park will accept applications for one-year Commercial Use Authorization for the 2027 operating season from Nov. 1 to Nov. 30.
Official NPS source
Sand Point Road will be temporarily closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic east of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boundary from October 1 until October 14 for a culvert replacement project.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service has awarded a $2.8 million contract to McKenzie Construction and Site Development, LLC (Washington, D.C.) to repair and replace the Munising Falls Trail and improve accessibility to the lower Munising Falls overlook in compliance with Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) accessibility standards.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is closing some tent and group campsites due to continued wolf activity. Starting August 28 and continuing until the park closes on October 31, tent and group campsites and hammock use will be prohibited at Three Mile, Daisy Farm, Moskey Basin and Caribou Island.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, Aug. 22 through Sunday, Aug. 30. Events and activities will incorporate the 2026 National Park Week theme of “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park will host a free program exploring how public history can broaden our understanding of what constituted an industrial landscape on Aug. 22 at 1 p.m. at its visitor center.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park and Kaleidoscope invite families with children age 15 or younger to enjoy a free cruise on the Keweenaw waterway on Aug. 20, during Ranger III Family Day.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park closed Duncan Narrows Campground for the second time this month following increased wolf activity at campsites due to improperly stored food. The closure runs from July 13 to July 31, with the possibility of an extension if necessary.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is temporarily closing individual tent and group campsites and prohibiting tent and hammock use at Three Mile Campground for the safety of our visitors. Off-trail camping zones surrounding Three Mile Campground will also be closed. The shelters at the campground will remain open. The closure begins on July 9 and continues through July 31.
Official NPS sourceThe planned closure of Sand Point Road has been postponed until further notice because of unexpected project delays. Sand Point Road and the beach remain open and accessible.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its quarterly meeting at 1 p.m. on July 14. The meeting will be held in-person at Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located at 25970 Red Jacket Road. This is the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS source
Sand Point Road will be temporarily closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic east of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boundary from Wednesday, July 8 until Friday, July 17, for a culvert replacement project. The closure may be extended if additional time is needed to complete the work.
Official NPS sourceThe Miners Falls Trail at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore reopened today, June 26, after a temporary closure on June 23–25 for necessary boring work. The trail will remain open through June 28 before closing again on June 29 through July 2, as crews continue soil boring near the viewing platforms.
Official NPS source
The Miners Falls Trail within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will be temporarily closed to all visitors from Tuesday, June 23 until Thursday, June 25.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore Postpones Prescribed Fire
Official NPS source
Join Isle Royale National Park aboard RANGER III for a summer 2026 Keweenaw Waterway Cruise.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service plans to conduct a prescribed fire in the Miners Beach area of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The prescribed fire is expected to take place no later than June 30, 2026. Weather conditions will determine the specific day. Once burning begins, closures are expected to last one to two days.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service has completed an evaluation of accessibility across Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore—including restrooms, walkways, interpretive exhibits, ranger programs, and other visitor services. Park staff now invite the public to review the draft Accessibility Self‑Evaluation and Transition Plan.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission announces that this year’s Keweenaw Heritage Grant program has awarded $$149,911.67 in funding for various historic preservation, interpretation, education, and curatorial projects covering an area stretching from Eagle Harbor to Ontonagon.
Official NPS source
To implement the most effective methods of keeping wildlife safe from human food/food waste, and humans safe from wildlife, Isle Royale park managers continue to evaluate and improve food storage regulations. Updated regulations went into effect April 16, 2026.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service plans to conduct two prescribed fires in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore before May 31.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is proud to announce the chosen summer 2026 artists for its artist-in-residence programs.
Official NPS source
The Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The meeting will be held in-person at Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located at 25970 Red Jacket Road. This is the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS source
Isle Royale National Park will expand its Artist-in-Residence programs in coordination with America 250 celebrations for summer 2026. The three programs offered will include: Established Artist-in-Residence Program (started 1991), Teen Artist Exploration (started 2016), and Emerging Artist Experience (new for 2026). Applications for these programs will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2026.
Official NPS source
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is accepting applications for the 2026 and 2027 commercial operating seasons beginning November 19, 2025, through January 19, 2025.
Official NPS sourceBeginning November 1, 2025, commercial operators offering guided water-based tours, including charter fishing, charter sightseeing, charter transportation, charter scuba diving, and guided kayaking, can apply for a two-year CUA through the updated online CUA portal.
Official NPS sourceIn August, Isle Royale NP took lethal measures to control a problem wolf due to the escalating number of concerning incidents reported by park visitors. After extensive monitoring and attempts at deterrence, and in consultation with state, federal and tribal agencies, the difficult decision to lethally remove this wolf was made. Park personnel will continue to track wolf/human interactions and remove additional wolves only if necessary.
Official NPS source
On August 21, 2025, join Isle Royale National Park and Kaleidoscope for Ranger III Family Day. Families with children 15 or younger may reserve space aboard one of two, 45-minute scheduled waterway cruises. Ranger III will travel into Portage Lake and back during the trip.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park, the Keweenaw NHP Advisory Commission, Isle Royale and Keweenaw Parks Association, and the Quincy Mine Hoist Association will unveil three new sculptures at the Quincy Smelter (48991 Maple St, Hancock, MI), on Wednesday, July 30, at 10:00 a.m. All members of the public are invited to attend.
Official NPS sourceOn the afternoon of July 3, 2025, a deceased individual was recovered from Lake Superior near Chapel Beach within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Official NPS sourceThis summer, Isle Royale National Park is partnering with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to conduct a creel survey of the Isle Royale-Lake Superior fishery.
Official NPS source
Early Saturday morning, June 14, at approximately 12:30 am, the 25-foot National Park Service (NPS) Vessel Peregrine ran aground on the break wall at the north end of the Keweenaw Upper Entrance in Hancock, Michigan.
Official NPS sourceTwo deceased individuals were found on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at South Lake Desor Campground, located at Isle Royale National Park. Both individuals have been identified, and their next of kin have been notified. There is no known threat to the public at this time.
Official NPS sourceOn June 8, 2025, park rangers at Isle Royale National Park located two deceased campers at a remote backcountry campground. The incident is currently under investigation.
Official NPS source
(Posted on behalf of the Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission.) The Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is pleased to announce that this year’s Keweenaw Heritage Grant program has awarded $124,880 in funding for various historic preservation, interpretation, education, and curatorial projects covering an area stretching from Copper Harbor to Rockland.
Official NPS source
The Munising Falls Trail in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is closed until further notice. A 75-foot section of the paved trail was washed out during a storm on the evening of April 28th. There is no viewing access to Munising Falls. Travel within the closure is prohibited.
Official NPS source
Starting April 16, 2025, Isle Royale National Park requires all overnight visitors to use approved animal-resistant containers for food and scented items. Food storage lockers will be installed at campgrounds throughout the season. These regulations aim to protect wildlife and visitor safety.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is proud to announce the summer 2025 artists-in-residence.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) announces the signing of the Improve Boat Access Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).
Official NPS source
On February 15, 2025, celebrate 85 years of Isle Royale National Park through music and art at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts. In partnership with Michigan Technological University (MTU), Rozsa Art Galleries, and the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra, this event highlights how the power of place inspires music and art that resonates within the human spirit.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located on the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS source
Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2025 Teen Artist Exploration will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2025. This artistic discovery is geared to all aspiring teen artists who want to develop their art through experiencing wilderness. It is open to all visual and performing artists, writers, and composers ages 13 to 18 at time of summer participation.
Official NPS source
The Isle Royale Artist-in-Residence Program offers writers, composers, and visual and performing artists the opportunity to capture the moods and magic of Isle Royale through artistic expression. Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2025 Artist-in-Residence Program will be accepted January 2 through February 16, 2025. Each 2 - 3 week residency provides artists the opportunity to become part of a long-established tradition of interpreting national parks through art.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service (NPS) today issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Miners Falls Viewing Platform and Steps Replacement Project at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This project aims to provide safe public access to the Miners River and the base of Miners Falls while reducing impacts to the natural environment.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is pausing the design of Segment 9 of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail following ongoing consultations with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
Official NPS sourceThe Michigan State Police (MSP) Negaunee Post is completing a death investigation involving a body that washed ashore from Lake Superior along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Miners Beach.
Official NPS source
The Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is pleased to announce the opening of the Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) application period for the 2025 and 2026 Seasons. Beginning November 1, 2024, commercial operators offering guided land-based tours, including backcountry trips, day hikes, and educational/photography workshops, can apply for a two-year CUA through our updated online CUA portal.
Official NPS source
In celebration of September National Wilderness Month, Isle Royale National Park invites you to explore the Isle Royale Wilderness Adventure, a new online experience for kids on www.nps.gov/isro.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park, the Keweenaw NHP Advisory Commission, and Isle Royale and Keweenaw Parks Association scheduled the unveiling of four sculptures on the landscape at the Quincy Dry House Ruins along US-41, Thursday, September 26, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; all members of the public are invited to attend.
Official NPS sourceA new National Park Service report shows that 910,939 visitors to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in 2023 spent $45,770,000 in communities near the park. That spending supported 544 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $48,685,000.
Official NPS sourceA man reported missing from Milwaukee was located by officials at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Tuesday afternoon, August 20.
Official NPS sourceOn Monday, August 12, a female backpacker died while hiking near Lake LeSage at Isle Royale National Park after she experienced a sudden onset of medical complications.
Official NPS source
On August 23, 2024, join Isle Royale National Park and Kaleidoscope for RANGER III Family Day. Families may reserve space aboard one of two free, hour-long scheduled waterway cruises. As space is limited, even though there is no cost for the cruise, reservations are required.
Official NPS source
On Saturday, August 17th, from 10am until 4pm, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of continuous service at the Au Sable Light Station.
Official NPS sourceA Notice of Availability for the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Wilderness Stewardship Plan at Isle Royale National Park is now available. The Wilderness Act of 1964 requires wilderness to be managed in a way that preserves its character. In keeping with the law, the Wilderness Stewardship Plan and EIS identify three options, or alternatives, the park could take to manage wilderness areas.
Official NPS source
Beginning August 15, 2024, the bridge over Miners River leading to Miners Beach at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will have single-lane closures. Visitors can expect delays during this time. After Labor Day, September 2, 2024, the bridge will close completely to traffic in both directions until Memorial Day, 2025.
Official NPS source
Isle Royale National Park, with support from NOAA's Marine Debris Program, has opened a new exhibit on June 3, 2024, in the Rock Harbor Auditorium, highlighting the impact of marine debris on the park and Lake Superior. The exhibit, curated and designed by eco-artist Mariah Reading with contributions from Adrienne Wallner and David Mainero, aims to educate visitors through art and interactive installations.
Official NPS sourceOn Thursday, July 25, 2024, a SCUBA diving fatality occurred in Lake Superior waters of Isle Royale National Park.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located on the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS sourceIn response to wolves accessing human food and garbage in and around Rock Harbor and campgrounds located on the east end of the island, Isle Royale National Park is implementing new food storage guidelines to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife. Campgrounds currently affected are Rock Harbor, Three Mile, Lane Cove, Daisy Farm, Moskey Basin, Duncan Bay, Duncan Narrows, and Merritt Lane. The park compendium provides park-specific regulations and will be updated and available online the week of July 15. Visitors are reminded that feeding wildlife is prohibited.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore proposes to replace the viewing platforms and their associated stair structures for visitors to view the natural feature at the terminus of the Miners Falls Trail. The purpose of this project is to provide safe public access to the Miners River and base of Miners Falls, while reducing impacts to the natural environment.
Official NPS source
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, the flag of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa was flown high for the first time in Rock Harbor.
Official NPS sourceThe Munising Falls Visitor Center and Grand Sable Visitor Center parking lots will be closed at 5 pm on Sunday, June 23 until Monday, July 1 for repaving. All vehicles must be moved from these parking lots by 5 pm on Sunday, June 23. Any remaining vehicles will be towed.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is pleased to announce that this year’s Keweenaw Heritage Grant program has awarded $117,082 in funding for various historic preservation, interpretation, education, and curatorial projects covering an area stretching from Eagle Harbor to Ontonagon.
Official NPS sourceJoin Isle Royale National Park aboard RANGER III for two summer 2024 Keweenaw Waterway Cruises. Scheduled cruises will depart at 12:30 pm on Thursday, July 11 and Thursday, July 25.
Official NPS source
Keweenaw National Historical Park located on the Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan has a variety of interpretive programming to deepen and enhance visitor experiences.
Official NPS sourceOn the evening of Wednesday, May 29th, recovery efforts were completed near the Coves Campground for the body of a 45-year-old male.
Official NPS source
The U.S. Attorney's Office of Western Michigan has filed federal charges against three Michigan men for the 2022 Mount Franklin Fire at Isle Royale National Park.
Official NPS source
This summer Keweenaw National Historical Park (NHP), Keweenaw NHP Advisory Commission, and Isle Royale and Keweenaw Parks Association (IRKPA) welcome Kasey Koski as the first artist to participate in our new Commissioned Artist Program.
Official NPS sourceThe North Manitou Island deer hunt in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is held each year to manage the introduced/non-native deer population to allow for the recovery of the forests. This year, the National Park Service is making several changes to the hunt.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located on the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is inviting the public to comment on a project to improve safe and reliable boat access to the Manitou Islands.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service (NPS) plans to conduct three prescribed fires in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Lakeshore) this spring. Prescribed fire is used as a tool to assist in restoring forest habitat while also reducing the threat of wildland fires.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is proud to announce the summer 2024 artists-in-residence.
Official NPS source
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is seeking students aged 15 through 18 to participate in the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) summer youth employment program. Participants will be working alongside park employees to complete trails and grounds projects across the park.
Official NPS sourceFrom the unique ecosystem of Isle Royale to the historic lighthouses of the Apostle Islands, Lake Superior’s five national parks boast natural and cultural resources cherished by generations. Starting in 2023, the parks began modeling how to reduce carbon emissions through net-zero strategies.
Official NPS sourceThe Old Indian Trail and surrounding area in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is closed due to invasive hemlock woolly adelgid.
Official NPS source
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore saw 910,939 total visitors in 2023. This is a 1.5% decrease from 2022 visitation, and a 30% decrease from 2021, when the park saw its highest visitation of 1.3 million visitors.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is looking for service providers for two competitive Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) to provide firewood vending for the Platte River Campground in Benzie County and D. H. Day Campground in Leelanau County for calendar years 2024 and 2025.
Official NPS source
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will be temporarily closing Sand Point to all ice climbing activity effective immediately to protect park trails and natural resources. Park staff is monitoring conditions to determine when ice climbing conditions can resume.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park, its Advisory Commission, and Isle Royale and Keweenaw Parks Association seek an artist to create an art installation on the western side of US-41, near the Dry House Ruins. The goal of the new commissioned artist program is to use art to return the presence of people to these historic landscapes.
Official NPS source
The Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is now accepting applications for the 2024 Keweenaw Heritage Grant Program.
Official NPS source
As of January 1st, 2024, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has increased park entrance fees. These increases are the third and final stage of the park’s fee implementation plan, which began in 2022.
Official NPS source
A dog was rescued after a Fall from Miners Castle.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, located on the corner of Red Jacket Road and Hwy. US-41 in Calumet.
Official NPS source
Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2024 Teen Artist Exploration will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2024. This artistic discovery is geared to all aspiring teen artists who want to develop their art through experiencing wilderness. It is open to all visual and performing artists, writers, and composers ages 13 to 18 at time of summer participation.
Official NPS source
The Isle Royale Artist-in-Residence Program offers writers, composers, and visual and performing artists the opportunity to capture the moods and magic of Isle Royale through artistic expression. Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2024 Artist-in-Residence Program will be accepted January 2 through February 16, 2024. Each 2 - 3 week residency provides artists the opportunity to become part of a long-established tradition of interpreting national parks through art.
Official NPS source
Three national scenic trails have become the country’s newest national parks, raising the total number of existing parks from 425 to 428. The Ice Age, New England, and North Country national scenic trails, all previously established by Congress and administered by the National Park Service as part of the National Trails System, are now also recognized as units of the National Park System.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore will be accepting applications for the 2024 and 2025 commercial operating seasons beginning December 7th, 2023 until January 31st, 2024. The park will be accepting online permit applications for the following use types: Guided backpacking, guided kayaking, guided photography workshops, guided ice climbing, transportation services.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore announces public comment period for a proposed backcountry cabin and updates to Au Sable Light Station tours.
Official NPS sourceAs part of a larger effort to streamline and modernize the National Park Service (NPS) Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) Program, Isle Royale National Park is launching an online system to process CUA applications and collect required CUA reports.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday, October 10, 2023. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service plans to conduct prescribed fires in three burn units this fall at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Official NPS source
On August 17, 2023, returning once again to celebrate summer in the Keweenaw, join Isle Royale National Park and the Isle Royale & Keweenaw Parks Association for RANGER III Family Day. Families may reserve space aboard one of two free, hour-long scheduled waterway cruises. As space is limited, even though there is no cost for the cruise, reservations are required.
Official NPS source
Regional Maintenance Action Team assisted with restoration of important maritime sites in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service announces an Environmental Impact Statement for a Wilderness Stewardship Plan at Isle Royale National Park. With this announcement, the National Park Service introduces a broad range of actions for managing wilderness and cultural resources within wilderness inside the park boundary, as well as preliminary issues and potential impacts associated with wilderness management.
Official NPS sourceMiners Falls Road to temporarily close from July 24th - July 28th, 2023 for routine road maintenance.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building and virtually over Zoom.
Official NPS source
Join Isle Royale National Park aboard Ranger III for two summer 2023 Keweenaw Waterway Cruises. Scheduled cruises will depart at 12:30 pm on Thursday, July 6 and Thursday, July 20.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is pleased to announce that this year’s Keweenaw Heritage Grant program has awarded $125,963 in funding for various historic preservation, interpretation, education, and curatorial projects covering an area stretching from Copper Harbor to the Porcupine Mountains.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service (NPS) and the Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission are hosting an open house on June 12 at 7pm to share updates on the two National Historic Landmark (NHL) districts within park boundaries: Calumet and Quincy Mining Company.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service (NPS) plans to conduct a prescribed fire in two burn units this spring at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore).
Official NPS sourceOn Thursday, May 4, Keweenaw National Historical Park, Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance, Village of Calumet, Calumet Downtown Development Authority, Main Street Calumet, Houghton County Land Bank Authority, and Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission received a Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation for the collaborative Bring Back Calumet initiative. The award was presented by Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) during a ceremony hosted by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
Official NPS sourceMiners Beach will experience a temporary parking closure and a North Country National Scenic Trail reroute for summer of 2023.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday, April 12, 2023. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building and virtually over Zoom.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is proud to announce the summer 2023 artists-in-residence.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is accepting Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) applications for the 2023 commercial operating season until May 15, 2023.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is recruiting a virtual Teacher-Ranger-Teacher (TRT) to spend the summer collaborating with rangers to develop education programs. Applications received by April 8 will receive first consideration.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is happy to announce that the Keweenaw Heritage Sites program is accepting applications for new heritage sites. Inclusion provides sites increased visibility and marketing opportunities, grants access to the professional expertise of the National Park Service, funding opportunities designed specifically for Heritage Sites, and connects sites to a network of like-minded organizations with common purposes, goals, and challenges.
Official NPS sourceDo you need to think about something warm and fun? Then it’s not too early to mark your calendar for the 2023 Port Oneida Fair in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) for the second Friday and Saturday of August. History will come alive August 11-12 with demonstrations, food, and family activities at six different sites within the Port Oneida Rural Historic District. For more information about the Port Oneida Fair go to: Port Oneida Fair - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is now accepting applications for the 2023 Keweenaw Heritage Grant Program.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service announces the release of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Isle Royale National Park Cultural Resource Management Plan/Environmental Assessment (CRMP/EA). The plan provides a long-term comprehensive strategy for managing the non-wilderness cultural resources of the park.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday January 17, 2023. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building and virtually over Zoom.
Official NPS source
The latest effort to combat beech bark disease is underway at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore). Seven tree saplings made from cuttings taken from resistant American beech trees at the National Lakeshore were grafted and planted in early November 2022. The successful project came as a result of five years of planning and research in partnership with researchers at Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech).
Official NPS source
The National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a concessions Prospectus on December 21, 2022, for a concession contract to provide interpretive boat tours and associated services within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Official NPS source
Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2023 Teen Artist Exploration will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2023. This artistic discovery is geared to all aspiring teen artists who want to develop their art through experiencing wilderness, and is open to all visual and performing artists, writers, and composers ages 13 to 18 at time of participation.
Official NPS sourceRANGER III, the National Park Service’s ferry to and from Isle Royale, has been sailing under the same fare structure since 2018. Isle Royale National Park has updated Ranger III passenger and freight fares for 2023 after receiving public comments. Thank you to all who commented on the proposed fare changes.
Official NPS source
The Artist-in-Residence Program offers writers, composers, and all visual and performing artists the opportunity to capture the moods and magic of Isle Royale through their particular art form. Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2023 Artist-in-Residence Program will be accepted January 2 through February 16, 2023.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park (NHP) is seeking applicants to fill an expired seat on the Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday November 16th, 2022. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building.
Official NPS sourceRANGER III, the National Park Service’s ferry to and from Isle Royale, has been sailing under the same fare structure since 2018. Isle Royale National Park is proposing to update the RANGER III passenger and freight fares for 2023 and encourages the public to comment on these proposed changes before a final decision is made. The comment period is open until November 25, 2022.
Official NPS sourceThe National Park Service announces a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for a Wilderness Stewardship Plan at Isle Royale National Park. With this announcement, the National Park Service introduces a broad range of actions for managing wilderness and cultural resources within wilderness inside the park boundary, as well as preliminary issues and potential impacts associated with wilderness management.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday October 19th, 2022. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building. The Commission requires attendees to wear a mask if they are unvaccinated.
Official NPS source
U.S. Park Rangers at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) are seeking information from the public to aid an ongoing investigation into the illegal diversion of the Platte River.
Official NPS source
Over the past two days, favorable weather conditions slowed the spread of the Mt. Franklin Fire, allowing firefighters to lay hose line around the fire’s perimeter. While significant progress suppressing the fire has occurred, the fire is not yet considered contained. The current fire acreage is estimated at 6.0 acres, reduced from initial estimates of 11 acres. Initial estimates are based on first-responder reports and are often adjusted as firefighters respond. There are currently minimal impacts to visitors with the exception of closures, and fire managers expect that to continue over the next few days.
Official NPS source
Early in the afternoon on Saturday, August 13, park staff received reports of a plume of smoke coming from an apparent wildfire burning in the area of Three Mile campground. Isle Royale firefighters responded to the area and discovered a small fire burning at the junction of the Tobin Harbor trail and Mt. Franklin trail.
Official NPS sourceOn August 18, 2022, returning once again to celebrate summer in the Keweenaw, join Isle Royale National Park and the Portage Lake District Library (PLDL) for RANGER III Family Day. Families may reserve space aboard one of two free, hour-long scheduled waterway cruises. As space is limited, even though there is no cost for the cruise, reservations are required. RANGER III will travel into Portage Lake and back during the trip. To make the required reservations, go online to the PLDL RANGER III Family Day Request Form. Reservations will only be accepted through Tuesday, August 16.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday July 27th, 2022. The meeting will be held in person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, 25970 Red Jacket Road, Calumet.
Official NPS source
Looking for safe, family-friendly, fishing fun?
Official NPS source
Keweenaw National Historical Park is pleased to announce an exhibition of paintings by late Keweenaw artist Alden Steck at the Calumet Visitor Center from mid-July to mid-August 2022. The Calumet Visitor Center is located at 98 Fifth Street in the Village of Calumet, Michigan. 2022 summer hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Wednesday through Sunday.
Official NPS source
On July 8th, 2022, a dog visiting Miners Castle jumped over the railing at the lower overlook and fell straight down the cliff to a ledge 25-30 feet below. Park rangers and a volunteer from the Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP) team were able to rescue the dog from this steep and complicated section of the Lake Superior shoreline. The dog was returned to his family shortly after the rescue.
Official NPS source
Join Isle Royale National Park aboard Ranger III for two summer 2022 Keweenaw Waterway Cruises. Scheduled cruises will depart at 12:30 pm on Thursday, July 7, 2022 and Thursday, July 21, 2022.
Official NPS source
24 grant applications were received this year with 14 chosen to receive awards. Projects ranged from: building and historic resource repair and maintenance, visitor accessibility improvements, collections digitization and management, and educational field trips.
Official NPS source
Superintendent Scott J. Bentley and Chief of Interpretation & Education Jami Keegan announced today that River Raisin National Battlefield Park has selected three outstanding artists as the Park’s Inaugural Artists in Residence. The Artist include Darlene Belair, Brant Georgia, and Brandy Gerber.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Wednesday April 13th, 2022. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building, 25970 Red Jacket Road, Calumet. The Commission requires attendees to wear a mask if they are unvaccinated.
Official NPS source
Isle Royale National Park is proud to announce the summer 2022 artists-in-residence. This year’s selections include: •Nathan Cornelius (Philadelphia, PA, music composition) •Elizabeth Rose (Springfield, IL, print media) •Lisa Truax (Winona, MN, ceramics) •Tracy Zeman (Birmingham, MI, writing)
Official NPS source
Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2022 Teen Artist Exploration will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2022. This artistic discovery is geared to all aspiring teen artists who want to develop their art through experiencing wilderness, and is open to all visual and performing artists, writers, and composers ages 13 to 18 at time of participation.
Official NPS source
Applications for Isle Royale National Park's 2022 Artist-in-Residence Program will be accepted between January 2 and February 16, 2022. Each 2 - 3 week residency provides artists the opportunity to become part of a long-established tradition of interpreting national parks through art.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore will begin charging entrance fees starting March 1, 2022. Camping and lighthouse tour fees will increase effective January 1, 2022.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park will host living window displays featuring the Chassell Heritage Organization’s Friends of Fashion on Saturday, December 11 and Saturday, December 18 from 12:00 to 2:30 pm.
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore will be accepting applications for the 2022 and 2023 commercial operating season beginning December 1st, 2021 until January 15th, 2022.
Official NPS source
Park rangers closing Isle Royale in late October took one last look at the Horne Fire before heading back to Houghton for the winter.
Official NPS source
The new education center under construction at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park was awarded a $2 Million award from the State of Michigan.
Official NPS sourceScientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service partnered on a first-of-its-kind, nationwide harmful algal bloom, or HAB, field study that began this summer and will continue over the next two years.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene virtually for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Monday October 18th, 2021. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building. The Commission requires attendees to wear a mask if they are unvaccinated.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park is pleased to announce continued visitor center hours into spring of 2022. The Calumet Visitor Center will be open on Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am to 3 pm, beginning October 22, 2021.
Official NPS source
The Grand Portage Honor Guard stands attention next to the Grand Portage Tribal flag and the United States of America flag.
Official NPS sourceSeptember 18th, 2021 - Two kayaking fatalities have been confirmed along the shores of Lake Superior.
Official NPS sourceTwo kayakers were reported missing the evening of September 16th, 2021.
Official NPS source
Historical Society of Michigan 2021 State History Award Recipient for Education: Educational Programs—"Virtual Field Trip Partnerships" hosted by the River Raisin National Battlefield Park/Monroe County Intermediate School District.
Official NPS source
Work continues on the approximately 200-acre Horne Fire, which ignited on August 10 near the Duncan Bay/Tobin Harbor Portage Trail on Isle Royale National Park. The cause of ignition is suspected to be lightning. The fire is now 15% contained.
Official NPS source
Initial results are in from collaborative efforts to restore the wolf population and predator-prey dynamics on Isle Royale National Park.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park (NP) is partnering with the Keweenaw Invasive Species Management Area (KISMA) to offer free boat washes at marinas and boat launches in Houghton, Baraga, and Keweenaw Counties this summer.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is excited to announce the opening of applications for internships to support the education team during the Snowshoe Experience program. Interns will gain valuable experience in the fields of environmental education and interpretation, and will also be introduced to the policies, procedures, and career paths within the National Park Service (NPS). Internships in the NPS bolster student skills and experience, and are designed to be stepping-stones to careers within the agency or similar workforce.
Official NPS sourceJuly 24, 2021, a man fell to his death into Lake Superior from near the upper viewing platform at Miners Castle in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene virtually for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Thursday, July 29th, 2021. The meeting will be held in-person at the Keweenaw National Historical Park Headquarters building. The Commission asks attendees to wear a mask if they are unvaccinated.
Official NPS source
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of 32 parks and park partners to receive an Open OutDoors for Kids Hybrid Learning grant from the National Park Foundation.
Official NPS source
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers new spring and summer education programs. Discover a new skill, conduct a science experiment, or create a work of art in a program with the National Lakeshore. Try one of the options below for students to learn about their park!
Official NPS sourcePictured Rocks National Lakeshore is seeking public comment on a proposed entrance fee and increased fees for camping and lighthouse tours. Comments will be accepted through June 30, 2021.
Official NPS sourceThe Advisory Commission and National Park Service at Keweenaw National Historical Park are pleased to announce that 16 Keweenaw Heritage Grants have been awarded for projects across Michigan’s historic Copper Country.
Official NPS source
River Raisin National Battlefield Park is pleased to announce that we are Open again!
Official NPS source
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is recruiting a local, virtual Teacher-Ranger-Teacher to spend the summer collaborating with rangers to develop education programs. Applications received by May 16 will receive first consideration.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene virtually for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Monday, April 19th, 2021 via Zoom.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service plans to conduct a prescribed fire in up to four burn units this spring, as early as April 19, at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Official NPS sourceBeginning April 16, 2021, campgrounds, trails, docks and anchorages at Isle Royale National Park will be open, with the exception of the Minong trail, North Desor campground and Little Todd campground. The National Park Service (NPS) Houghton Visitor Center will re-open to the public on April 19.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park announced today plans are being finalized to open the park for visitation this summer and for Ranger III to provide limited public passenger service.
Official NPS source
Minong Mine Copper Mining District, part of Isle Royale National Park, has been designated a National Historic Landmark (NHL). The designation celebrates the national significance of Indigenous and historic copper mining that occurred at the Minong Mine. Minong is the Ojibwe term for Isle Royale.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission is now accepting applications for the 2021 Keweenaw Heritage Grant Program.
Official NPS sourceFollowing guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local officials, and to support the nation's effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, NPS personnel and researchers will not be conducting research on Isle Royale this winter. Researchers from Michigan Technological University, State University of New York College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Minnesota, Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the NPS planned to conduct various aspects of ecosystem research this winter as part of a long-term research program and assess the ecological impacts of restoring wolves to the ecosystem.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene virtually for its regular quarterly meeting at 1:00pm on Tuesday, January 19th, 2021 via Zoom.
Official NPS sourceIn celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the entrance fee to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore will be waived on Monday, January 18, 2021.
Official NPS source
The National Park Service issued a letter of intent for the development of a lease for the historic Sleeping Bear Inn and Garage in Glen Haven to Balancing Environment and Rehabilitation (BEAR), a nonprofit dedicated to keeping the history and heritage of Glen Haven sustainable.
Official NPS source
A new trail has opened at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for snowshoers. The trail is located on the Munising side of the park.
Official NPS sourceJohn Arnold has been selected to serve as the Keweenaw National Historical Park Historical Architect.
Official NPS sourceSand Point, located near the westernmost boundary of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, was modified in the early 1990s with the placement of a large rock rubble-mound revetment. The purpose of the revetment installation was to protect against erosion on Sand Point Road and the historic U.S. Coast Guard Station / Lakeshore Headquarters after a period of high water on Lake Superior.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park now offers one or two-year CUAs in an effort to reduce the administrative burden for commercial operators and NPS staff. Applications are accepted between January 2nd and May 15th, annually.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore will be fee-free on Wednesday, November 11, in honor of Veterans Day.
Official NPS source
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (National Lakeshore) is pleased to announce the delivery of a mobile visitor center to the park--just in time for its 50th anniversary!
Official NPS source
In September, a significant journey across Lake Superior from Isle Royale to Grand Portage, Minnesota, took place. The cargo? Five culturally significant woven mats (anaakanan) from the Isle Royale National Park museum collection. The mats, four woven from cedar bark and the fifth made of sweetgrass, are now on long term loan to Grand Portage National Monument.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore celebrates its 50th anniversary on Wednesday, October 21 with plenty of fun.
Official NPS source
Isle Royale National Park and State University of New York-College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) have documented reproduction for wolves introduced to Isle Royale in 2018 and 2019, a key element of the National Park Service wolf introduction program’s success. GPS collar data and images from remote cameras suggest pups were born in 2019 and 2020. An exact number of pups is yet to be determined.
Official NPS source(Calumet, MI) To commemorate the centennial of the 19th amendment, which prohibited states from denying the vote on the basis of sex, and recognize centuries of under recognized sacrifices and contributions to the U.S. made by women, including Black women, Indigenous women and all women of color, the National Park Foundation (NPF) announced more than 20 inaugural grants through its Women in Parks initiative. These grants will fund projects highlighting women’s stories at national parks across the country, including Keweenaw National Historical Park.
Official NPS sourceIsle Royale National Park is pleased to announce that in partnership with Isle Royale Resorts/Rock Harbor Lodge, fuel sales will continue at Rock Harbor through August 25. Diesel and gasoline will be available from 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET daily along with limited sales in the Rock Harbor Trading Post.
Official NPS sourceThe Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission will convene virtually for its regular quarterly meeting at 12:00pm on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 via Zoom.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore will resume the collection of entrance fees beginning Saturday, July 25, 2020.
Official NPS source
National Park Service (NPS) Regional Director Bert Frost announced the selection of Denice Swanke as permanent superintendent of Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, effective August 16.
Official NPS sourcePierce Stocking Scenic Drive will be open for visitors on Saturdays and Sundays for the next several weeks beginning Saturday, July 11.
Official NPS sourceFollowing guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State of Michigan, and local public health authorities, Isle Royale is increasing recreational access to the park. The National Park Service (NPS) is working servicewide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.
Official NPS source
Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is reopening drive-in campsites and backcountry camping. The National Park Service (NPS) is working service-wide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.
Official NPS sourceFollowing guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Michigan Safe Start plan, and local public health authorities, Isle Royale is increasing boat access to the park.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is set to open additional park facilities.
Official NPS sourceThe Advisory Commission and National Park Service at Keweenaw National Historical Park are pleased to announce that 17 Keweenaw Heritage Grants have been awarded for projects across Michigan’s historic Copper Country.
Official NPS sourceKeweenaw National Historical Park (NHP) is pleased to announce two appointments to the Keweenaw National Historical Park Advisory Commission. Glenn Anderson is a new appointment representing the interests of the State of Michigan. Karin Cooper, representing the Houghton County Board of Commissioners, has also been reappointed to a second term on the Commission.
Official NPS sourceVistas and self-guided walking tours are open and accessible to all visitors of Keweenaw National Historical Park. Visitors can find useful resources for exploring the park on the park website and social media pages. Specific Heritage Site information can be found on individual site webpages or social media pages.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is beginning to increase recreational access to park facilities.
Official NPS sourceFollowing guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the State of Michigan, Isle Royale National Park is delaying its seasonal opening until further notice. In addition, the Ranger III, Voyageur II, Sea Hunter III, and Isle Royale Queen IV will not provide visitor ferry transportation this summer. Rock Harbor Lodge, including overnight lodging, dining, marina services, gift shops and stores, will remain closed for the season.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, along with its many partners, has made the decision to cancel the Port Oneida Fair scheduled for August 7-8, 2020.
Official NPS sourceSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore making additional modifications to operations to support federal, state, and local efforts to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Official NPS sourceThe fourth annual Copper TRACES educational event at Keweenaw National Historical Park has been cancelled due to Michigan Executive Order No. 2020-42, and the transition of physical school attendance to remote learning.
Official NPS sourceNorth Country National Scenic Trail Celebrates a new milestone in Augusta, Michigan, with a hike and planning session on land acquired last year.
Official NPS source