Mary Christine Stevens/For the Mining Gazette Views while hiking Bare Bluff’s 4-mile loop

Bare Bluff is one of the Keweenaw’s hidden gems in terms of hiking. This 4-mile loop located near Mohawk, Michigan is somewhat challenging, and is a popular spot for birdwatching, hiking and walking. Managed by the Michigan Nature Association, Bare Bluff’s cliff overlooks the beautiful shore of Lake Superior. Many hikers recommend that one goes counter-clockwise on the loop, in order to avoid a difficult trek down from the bluff. As someone who’s done the loop in both directions, I would agree. 

Other than taking in the breathtaking beauty of hiking hotspots such as Bare Bluff, hiking offers a variety of health benefits. According to the National Park Service, hiking helps to build stronger muscles and bones, improve balance and heart health, and ward off certain respiratory problems. Hiking can also assist with mental health. Studies have shown hiking can boost your mood, lower the risk of depression, and strengthen bonds with friends and family. 

The American Hiking Society, a Maryland-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving trails, also highlights hiking as a low-impact, high-benefit activity. According to their website, hiking can lower blood pressure, mitigating the risk of hypertension. It also has the ability to release excess adrenaline stored in the body, thus reducing anxiety. Getting out on the trails can be great for older hikers as well, as hiking can increase bone density and ward off osteoporosis, or, in some cases, reverse its effects. 

While hiking may sound like a great time (and trust me, it is!), it’s important to follow safety guidelines set by the American Hiking Society. First and foremost, choose the right footwear. Hiking boots and sturdy tennis shoes are the best choice. Try to avoid strappy sandals, flip-flops and other types of shoes that don’t offer ankle support. The last thing you want is to sprain or roll your ankle and have to hike back off the trail in dollar store flip-flops. Second, make sure you have access to a map or GPS during your hike. Not all trails are clearly marked, and it can be easy to get off-course. Apps like AllTrails are especially helpful. Maps can be found at visitor centers and most gas stations. Lastly, make sure you’re bringing the right equipment. Water and snacks are always a good idea, especially lighter foods like fruits and vegetables, granola bars or cereal. Sunscreen and bug spray are crucial, as well as a first aid kit with items like hand sanitizer, band-aids and antihistamines (in case of an allergic reaction). 

As you enjoy your journey through the wonderful wilderness, make sure you’re helping preserve the trails for others to enjoy. Pack out whatever you pack in. Bring a trash bag or grocery bag to hold any trash, food wrappers, fruit peels or other garbage, so you can dispose of it once your hike is finished. Even if something is marked as biodegradable, it could be eaten by wildlife before it has a chance to break down. Avoid taking large rocks, picking plants or disturbing the ecosystem. Doing so could result in fines, as some endangered plants are protected by law. It’s also important to respect the wildlife. Remember, you’re a guest in their home. Don’t feed animals or try to approach them, and be sure to secure and control your pets if you bring them along. 

Bare Bluff is only one of many sensational hiking and walking trails in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. For an extensive list of publicly available paths, as well as how to get to them, check out visitkeweenaw.com.

Mary Christine Stevens is an editorial intern at the Daily Mining Gazette this summer. She can be reached at clerk@mininggazette.com.