Are you looking for a short trail in Michigan that’s covered with unusual wildflower blooms and a breathtaking 180-degree view? Wolf Mountain in Wakefield Township, Michigan is the place for you! Wakefield Township is also home to some of the best waterfall hikes in Michigan.
Wolf Mountain is the highest peak in Gogebic County Michigan and the short hike to the top is filled with wildflowers, some of them quite unusual. The views of this gorgeous trail, located between Wakefield and Marenisco, Michigan, start at a gentle sloping hike for the first 1/4 mile.
However, the last section of the Wolf Mountain hike is much steeper. In some trail guides, it is listed as an easy trail - personally, I’d rate it as a moderate one due to the steep climb at the end.
Wildflowers and rock outcrop plants abound on this lesser-known trail. Some of the flowers you might see on your short climb include bloodroot, yellow violets, wild sasparilla, false Solomon’s-seal, and more. Beware of the wood nettle - they have stinging hairs!
As you make your way up the Wolf Mountain trail, the species of wildflowers you encounter change, guaranteeing a varied, spectacular view the entire time.
Since I moved to Michigan a couple of years ago, I’ve gotten into mushroom hunting. Based on this shot, I might have to make the trip up there myself to check it out!
You can find a variety of mushrooms on the Wolf Mountain trail, including chicken-of-the-woods and oyster mushrooms. Prime mushroom season is between Easter and Mother’s Day in the State of Michigan, or when the nighttime temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit regularly.
The top of Wolf Mountain offers spectacular views all year round, with gorgeous wildflowers in the spring and breathtaking fall views.
If you’re feeling like making a weekend of your visit to Wolf Mountain, there is even a clearing for you to pitch a tent at the top of the mountain! Because it is a part of the Ottawa National Forest, there are no vehicle or camping fees.
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However, we don’t recommend camping in the winter, where the highs are only in the 30s and the lows in the 20s.
Those temperatures are low enough for a short hike up Wolf Mountain, especially when the views are as lovely as those pictured above. Just imagine all the wildflowers waking up and coming to life as that snow melts!
There are also many options for picnicking along the Wolf Mountain trail. The short 30-minute hike to the top gives you just enough time to work up an appetite.
The park caretakers are passionate about keeping Wolf Mountain healthy, with shoe-cleaning stations to keep out invasive plants.
The real stunner of Wolf Mountain is the 180-degree sunset views. Just take a look at this!
There is something to see from all angles, including the Penokee Mountain Range and Lake Superior… as long as you’re not there on a cloudy day.
Note to travelers: If you decide to take this hike, be warned - bring some bug spray. Next time you find yourself in the upper peninsula of Michigan chasing waterfalls, don’t forget about the magical views of Wolf Mountain.
What’s the best view you’ve seen while hiking? We love hearing about your adventures, too!
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