Big Carp River – Lake of the Clouds Overlook loop from Little Carp River

Hiking trails & Routes

Ontonagon County

Big Carp River – Lake of the Clouds Overlook loop from Little Carp River

Moderate

hikers

Big Carp River – Lake of the Clouds Overlook loop from Little Carp River

03:25

11.8km

290m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Last updated: August 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

2.42 km

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Highlight • Forest

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, often referred to as "the Porkies," is the largest state park in Michigan, spanning an impressive 60,000 acres of pristine old-growth forest, cascading waterfalls, and Lake Superior's picturesque shoreline. This breathtaking natural sanctuary offers stunning vistas, including the iconic Lake of the Clouds and the beautiful Presque Isle River corridor. The park also preserves historic copper mining sites, for a unique glimpse into the history of this beautiful area of the Midwest.

Tip by

2.50 km

Mirror Lake

Highlight • Lake

Mirror Lake is an excellent stop-off point for an overnighter hiking trip. There are 4 cabins and 7 campsites dotted around the lake, all with excellent views of the blue waters. In the late summer mosquitos can be quite bad, so bring lots of repellent!

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7.59 km

Big Carp River

Highlight • River

The Big Carp River is beautiful, winding through the old-growth forest of Porcupine Mountain Wilderness. You can follow its course from the Lake of the Clouds overlook to its remote mouth on Lake Superior, passing lovely waterfalls, trout pools, and fantastic sweeping vistas the entire way.

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8.34 km

Lake of the Clouds Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

The magnificent blue waters of the Lake of the Clouds are surrounded by the ancient forests on the slopes of the Porcupine Mountains. This area is said to be the most photographed in the entirety of the national park, and once you take a look for yourself you will see why. The overlooks of the lake are easily accessible from the nearby car park.

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11.8 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.8 km

Surfaces

10.9 km

889 m

Elevation