HANCOCK – The Keweenaw Peninsula has a new tool to help visitors explore its abundant outdoor beauty and rich history thanks to a project of the Western Upper Peninsula Planning & Development Region (WUPPDR).

Last week WUPPDR launched a new website for the Copper Country Trail National Byway (CCTNB), a scenic driving route comprised of US 41 and secondary spur routes north of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. A key feature of the mobile-friendly website is an interactive web map featuring historic and natural attractions along the scenic route, including driving directions. The website highlights points of interest such as Brockway Mountain Drive, Quincy Mine, and Estivant Pines. Detailed information about various aspects of the byway is bolstered by a variety of printable maps and brochures.

CCTNB was established in 2005 as a National Scenic Byway and later became a Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Heritage Route. WUPPDR led the initiative in partnership with a diverse local committee, with funding support from the Federal Highway Administration and MDOT. Today, CCTNB is one of just three byways in Michigan designated under the America’s Byways / All-American Roads program, and the only one in the Upper Peninsula.

“We recognized that the previous website, over 10 years old, was practically obsolete and needed to present a better face to visitors, especially given the increase in driving tourism that has come with the pandemic,” explained WUPPDR’s executive director Jerry Wuorenmaa.

Funding for the new website was provided by MDOT.

You can visit the new website and learn more about CTNB at www.coppercountrytrail.org.