(WWJ) - A pair of small Michigan towns have been named two of the top 55 places across the U.S. for viewing fall foliage, a major publication announced this week.
Country Living magazine ranked Munising in its #10 spot on the list and Ontonagon placed #33 out of 55 small towns that included other stunning views in New Hampshire, Tennessee, Utah and more.
"If you’re itching to take your leaf-peeping hobby beyond your neighborhood this year—or just want the perfect seasonal getaway—you definitely need to book a trip to one of these beautiful small towns in the United States, known for their autumnal displays and views," Country Living said of their list.
The publication said Munising, which boasts the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the south shore of Lake Superior, offers leaf-peepers "eye-catching" views of fall foliage among stunning waterfalls.
According to the Munising Visitors Bureau, guests have a number of ways to view fall colors at their peak. Visitors can cruise along the many ORV/ATV trails or take a hike on our 100 miles of trails along 42 miles of Lake Superior’s Shore.
Cyclists have the option to bike along four trail systems, all easily accessible from Downtown Munising or travel by car down any one of their numerous highway routes.
"Take H-58 to Miners Castle Road, then continue on to Grand Marias on one of the most scenic roads you will ever experience," the visitor's center said. "Take H13 south, or M94 goes west and south, which are very well maintained and have hiking trails and waterfalls for you to explore."
Guests also have the option of boarding a Pictured Rocks cruise and view the stunning colors from Lake Superior. The cruise line said trips take about two and a half to three hours and will travel into and alongside "the most visually stunning 40 miles of shoreline on the Great Lakes."
Claiming the No. 33 spot on County Living's list is the small village of Ontonagon, which is home to the Porcupine Mountains, 1,200 miles of free-running streams and rivers, and pristine Lake Superior beaches.
The Porcupine Mountains Ontonagon Area Convention & Visitors Bureau stated the area is "one of the most spectacular fall travel destinations in the Midwest" with unforgettable routes that display the area's stunning autumnal scenery.
"Explore the boundless beauty of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park or marvel at free-flowing waterfalls, all while enjoying a comfortable stay at a welcoming hotel or lodge," the visitor's bureau added.
Park officials took to Facebook on Monday, Sept., and estimated 40-70% of the Porcupine Mountains is currently in color. Peak fall foliage is expected to take over the area soon.
"Some areas you will see bright, vibrant colors and some you will see mostly greens," they wrote. "The leaves are changing really quick this year."
Two big attractions guests must experience while visiting the area include Lake of the Clouds and the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area.
Lake of the Cloud is widely considered an "iconic sight in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park," but it is revealed in all its glory in the fall-time.
"Lake of the Clouds is surrounded by thousands of acres of old-growth forest, and in the fall, these steep tree-filled slopes burst into fiery hues of orange, yellow and red," the wilderness park said. "A dramatic overlook can be easily reached by car. Scenic hiking trails also ring the lake."
This ski hill tops at the Porcupine Mountains Ski area turns into a must-see destination in autumn. Chair lift rides at the at the Winter Sports Complex operate September and October weekends during the season and offer visitors incredible views.
The Ontonagon County Airport also offers a unique viewing experience with its 3rd Annual Fly-in/Drive-in on Saturday, Sept. 30. Visitors can see the fall colors by air with a 20-minute planes rides for $50 beginning at 9 a.m.
For more information about these top Michigan travel destinations and more, visit Michigan.org.