Spring is Fully Alive in the Western UP — Here’s What’s Happening This Weekend
If you’ve been waiting for a sign that the Western Upper Peninsula has fully woken up from winter — this is it. This weekend is bringing a mix of opening days, warm temps, and a few things worth knowing before you head up. Here’s your Friday roundup from Vault Ventures HQ.
🎣 Fishing Season Opens Tomorrow
Tomorrow, April 25th, Michigan’s trout season opens statewide — and inland walleye and northern pike open in the Lower Peninsula as well. For those of us in the UP, walleye and northern pike possession season opens May 15th, so mark that one down. The rivers are running high right now thanks to snowmelt and spring rain, which means conditions are prime for steelhead if you know where to look.
The Michigan DNR has a new interactive Inland Trout and Salmon Regulations map this year — you can find it at Michigan.gov/FishingMaps or right in the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app. No excuse to not know the regs before you hit the water.
If you’re staying with us and want to get out on the water, ask us for our local spots. We’re happy to point you in the right direction. 🤙
🏆 Copper Country Trail Nominated for USA Today’s 10 Best
Big news for the Keweenaw — the Copper Country Trail National Byway has been nominated for USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for scenic byways. If you’ve driven this route, you already know it deserves every bit of recognition it gets. If you haven’t, that’s reason enough to plan a trip.
The Copper Country Trail winds through some of the most dramatic and underrated scenery in the Midwest — old mining towns, Lake Superior shoreline, waterfalls, and forest as far as the eye can see. Spring and early summer are honestly the best time to do it, before the tourist season really kicks into gear.
🌊 High Water = Respect the Rivers
With snowmelt still running strong and spring rains moving through, river levels are elevated across the UP right now. This makes for spectacular waterfalls and incredible fishing — but also means you need to be smart around moving water. Stick to established trails near waterfalls, don’t wade unfamiliar rivers alone, and keep the kids close near the banks. The UP’s beauty is best enjoyed safely.
🌿 Roadside Parks Reopening April 28th
Most of Michigan’s roadside parks reopen for the season on April 28th — but heads up, some UP locations will remain closed through late May due to lingering snow. If you’re planning a road trip through the region and counting on a specific stop, it’s worth checking with MDOT before you go.
🏡 Planning a Spring Trip to the Western UP?
Spring is one of our favorite times of year up here. The crowds haven’t arrived, the rates are great, the rivers are roaring, and the wildlife is as active as it gets. Whether you’re chasing trout, looking to explore the Copper Country Trail, or just want to sit on a porch and watch the world wake up — we’ve got a place for you.
Check out our available properties and see what fits your crew. We’d love to have you up here. 🌲
