Hidden Logging Railroads Of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Michigan's Upper Peninsula holds hundreds of miles of abandoned logging railroads, and the best way to see them is to follow the trails and forest paths where they once ran. These lines carried timber from the dense interior to sawmills and connecting main lines from the late 1800s through the early 1900s. Today, the overgrown grades, rotted ties, and occasional rusted couplers are all that remain.

Hidden Logging Railroads of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

The dense forests and rugged terrain made the Upper Peninsula a prime location for logging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hidden within these forests are remnants of old logging railroads that once transported timber.

Forgotten Tracks in the Wilderness

The Upper Peninsula's forests hold secrets of old railroads that once bustled with activity. These tracks, now overgrown and hidden, tell stories of a bygone era.

Seney Stretch
The Seney area was served by logging railroads that connected to main lines for timber transport. Located near the town of Seney, this stretch of track was used to haul timber from the dense forests to the mills. Remnants of the grades can still be found.
Tahquamenon Falls Railroad
Near Tahquamenon Falls, logging railroads once carried logs to the mills. The tracks have long since been removed, but the old railroad beds remain popular hiking trails. Walk along the old grade and imagine the trains chugging through the forest.

Abandoned Railroads Turned Trails

Some of these old railroads have been repurposed into trails, allowing visitors to walk or bike along the same paths that once carried timber.

Iron Range and Huron Bay Railroad
Some railroads built to transport iron ore also played a role in the logging industry. The tracks have been removed, and the route is now a popular trail for hiking and biking. Explore the trail and discover remnants of the old railroad infrastructure.
Escanaba and Lake Superior Railroad
The Escanaba and Lake Superior Railroad once transported logs and other goods through the region. Parts of the old railroad have been converted into trails, offering a scenic route through the forests and along the lakeshore.

Ghost Towns Along the Tracks

Many small towns sprang up along these railroads, only to be abandoned when the logging industry declined. These ghost towns offer a haunting glimpse into the past.

Fayette Historic State Park
Fayette was once a bustling town centered around the iron smelting industry, which relied on timber from the surrounding forests. Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and imagine life in the 19th century.
Nestoria
Nestoria was a small town that sprang up along the tracks of the Duluth, South Shore, and Atlantic Railroad. The town is now abandoned, but remnants of the old railroad and buildings can still be found.

Hidden Relics in the Forest

Deep within the forests of the Upper Peninsula, hidden relics of the logging railroads can still be found. These sites are often off the beaten path, requiring a bit of adventure to uncover.

Chassell Logging Railroad
Near the town of Chassell, remnants of old logging railroads can be found deep in the forest. Old tracks, ties, and a few rusted pieces of equipment can be discovered by those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Copper Range Railroad
Some railroads that primarily transported copper also played a role in the logging industry. Hidden within the forests near Houghton, remnants of the old tracks and equipment can still be found.

Conclusion

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is rich with history, and the hidden logging railroads are a fascinating part of that history. Whether you're hiking along an old railroad bed, exploring a ghost town, or uncovering hidden relics in the forest, these sites offer a unique glimpse into the past.

Discovering Michigan's Hidden Logging Railroads

Exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula reveals a history of hidden logging railroads. These railroads, once vital for transporting timber, now offer a glimpse into the past. Walking these old tracks, you can almost hear the echoes of steam engines and the activity of logging camps.

Visiting these sites isn't just about history. It's also about the natural beauty of the area. The forests, rivers, and wildlife make every trip memorable. Whether you're a history buff or nature lover, these hidden railroads offer something special.

Next time you're in the Upper Peninsula, take a moment to explore these hidden gems. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the region's history and its natural wonders.