Set high in the ribs of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Porcupine Mountains are less a destination and more a long exhale. Snow-silent pines, cold rivers that twist like handwriting, and roads that double as memory lanes. This is the western U.P., where towns like Ewen and Silver City aren’t trying to impress you. They’re too busy staying quiet.
The Porcupines, nicknamed the “Porkies,” are rugged, remote, and beloved by people who don’t need Wi-Fi to feel connected. The towns tucked in and around this range are all grit and grace—timber ghosts, fishing stories, century-old storefronts, and porches with a lake view you won’t find on Zillow. Some places—like Trout Creek or Bruce Crossing—feel like they were drawn up by Wendell Berry and left behind on purpose.
These aren’t towns you “do.” They’re towns you become for a while. Whether you’re escaping something or searching for stillness, there’s a good chance it’s waiting down a two-lane highway under the hush of evergreens. So here’s our lineup: 10 of the most secluded, most soulful towns in the Porcupine Mountains. You won’t find neon, but you will find stars. Let’s go.
10. Ewen: Embracing Serenity in a Quiet Corner of the U.P.
In the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Ewen is a small community where tranquility is a way of life. With an approximate population of just a few hundred residents, this quiet town offers a peaceful retreat far from the hustle and bustle.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Ottawa National Forest, fish in the Ontonagon River, or enjoy snowmobiling trails that weave through the picturesque landscape. The local economy is supported by timber industries and small family-owned businesses, giving Ewen a close-knit, authentic feel.
Its seclusion stems from its remote location amidst dense forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. In Ewen, time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to fully embrace the serenity of a quiet corner in the U.P.
Where is Ewen?
Located in Ontonagon County, Ewen sits at the junction of M-28 and M-45, deep within Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Its remote setting is accentuated by the surrounding wilderness, with miles of forested land buffering it from larger towns and cities.
The town’s seclusion is part of its charm, offering an escape where the calls of wildlife often outnumber the sounds of passing cars. To reach Ewen, travelers can follow scenic routes through the U.P., taking in the natural beauty along the way and arriving at a destination where peace and quiet are plentiful.
9. Bruce Crossing: The Crossroads of Calm and Seclusion
Bruce Crossing, with a population of around 200 residents, is a tranquil haven nestled amidst forests and streams in the Upper Peninsula. This small community invites visitors to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing in the Baltimore River, hiking along wooded trails, or snowmobiling during the winter months.
The town serves as a hub for local agriculture and small businesses, reflecting a strong community spirit. Bruce Crossing’s seclusion is rooted in its location far off the beaten path, where the pace of life is unhurried and nature is at your doorstep.
The surrounding natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Here, the simple pleasures of rural life make it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Where is Bruce Crossing?
Situated in Ontonagon County, Bruce Crossing lies at the intersection of US Highway 45 and M-28, making it a quiet crossroads in the Upper Peninsula. The town’s remote location is enhanced by the vast stretches of wilderness that envelop it, far from the noise and activity of urban centers.
The serenity of Bruce Crossing comes from its distance from larger cities and the expansive natural areas that surround it. Getting there involves a scenic drive through forests and past rivers, offering a journey that’s as peaceful as the destination itself.
8. Trout Creek: A Hidden Gem of Serenity
Trout Creek, with a close-knit population of just a few hundred residents, is a peaceful sanctuary located in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
This charming town provides an ideal retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as fishing in the scenic Ontonagon River, hiking through lush woodland trails, and enjoying quiet picnics by its tranquil waterways.
Trout Creek is also known for its friendly community and rich history, which is celebrated at local events and gatherings. The town’s remoteness and unspoiled landscapes create an atmosphere of seclusion and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those looking to reconnect with nature.
Where is Trout Creek?
Nestled within Ontonagon County, Trout Creek is located along State Highway M-28. This quaint town is surrounded by pristine wilderness and rolling hills, offering visitors an uninterrupted connection to the outdoors.
A drive to Trout Creek treats travelers to breathtaking views of dense forests and sparkling rivers, setting the tone for a serene escape. The town’s peaceful setting and easy access to the Porcupine Mountains add to its appeal for explorers and solitude-seekers alike.
7. Rockland: Exploring the Silent Echoes of a Mining Past
Rockland is a small town steeped in history, with approximately 200 residents preserving the legacy of its rich mining past. Visitors can explore old mining sites, such as the historic Victoria Dam and the remnants of copper mines that once thrived here.
The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, with opportunities for hiking, exploring, and reflecting on the area’s heritage. Local industries have shifted from mining to forestry and tourism, maintaining Rockland’s quiet charm.
Its seclusion is due to its location amid rolling hills and forests, where the echoes of the past blend with the tranquility of nature. In Rockland, the silent streets and historic landmarks provide a unique backdrop for those seeking solitude and a touch of history.
Where is Rockland?
Nestled in Ontonagon County, Rockland is located along US Highway 45, deep within Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The town’s remote setting is underscored by its distance from major urban centers and the encompassing forested landscapes.
This isolation allows Rockland to retain a quiet, bygone-era feel, free from the bustle of modern life. Visitors can reach Rockland by following scenic routes through the U.P., arriving at a destination where history and solitude coexist.
6. Greenland: Uncovering Peace in Michigan’s Nordic Namesake
Greenland, Michigan, is a quaint community offering quiet allure to those who venture off the main paths. With a population of around 800 residents in the township, it embodies small-town charm amid vast natural surroundings.
Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy the beauty of local waterfalls like O Kun de Kun Falls, or delve into the area’s mining history at the Adventure Mine. The local economy revolves around forestry, small businesses, and tourism, with friendly locals welcoming travelers.
Greenland’s seclusion comes from its tucked-away location and the sense of discovery it offers, being a place not widely known but rich in experiences. For those seeking peace and a connection to nature, Greenland is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered.
Where is Greenland?
Located in Ontonagon County, Greenland sits along M-38 in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Its remote location is surrounded by forests, streams, and the rugged beauty characteristic of the U.P.
The town’s seclusion is heightened by limited traffic and its distance from larger cities, offering a tranquil environment for visitors and residents alike.
To reach Greenland, travelers journey through scenic routes that showcase the untouched landscapes of Michigan’s north, arriving at a place where serenity is a way of life.
5. Mass City: A Tiny Hamlet Tucked Away in the Mountains
Mass City is a diminutive hamlet that offers an authentic, secluded mountain town experience. With a small population, this community provides a quiet retreat amid the scenic beauty of Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, exploring old mining sites, and experiencing the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. The main industries include forestry and small-scale agriculture, contributing to the town’s rustic charm.
Mass City’s off-the-beaten-path appeal lies in its minimal development and peaceful atmosphere, far from crowded tourist destinations. For travelers looking to step back in time and embrace solitude, Mass City offers a unique and tranquil escape.
Where is Mass City?
Nestled within Ontonagon County, Mass City is located along M-26, deep in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Its seclusion is accentuated by the surrounding Porcupine Mountains and dense forests, making it feel worlds away from urban life.
The town’s remote setting requires a deliberate journey, often through winding roads that highlight the area’s natural beauty. Getting to Mass City means embracing the adventure of the road less traveled, leading to a place where solitude and nature harmoniously meet.
4. Bergland: Serene Solitude by the Shores of Lake Gogebic
Bergland is a tranquil community situated near the shores of Lake Gogebic, Michigan’s largest inland lake. With around 400 residents, it offers opportunities for secluded lakeside relaxation and a strong connection with nature.
Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and exploring the lake’s scenic beauty, as well as hiking in the nearby Ottawa National Forest. The town’s economy is largely based on tourism and outdoor recreation, catering to those who appreciate the quiet charm of lake life.
Bergland’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the expansive wilderness that surrounds it, providing a peaceful haven away from crowded vacation spots. For those seeking a serene escape by the water, Bergland is an ideal destination.
Where is Bergland?
Located in Ontonagon County, Bergland sits along M-28 on the northern shore of Lake Gogebic in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The town’s remote setting is enhanced by the surrounding forests and the vastness of the lake, creating a sense of peaceful isolation.
Bergland is far from major highways and urban centers, making it a perfect spot for uninterrupted relaxation. Travelers can reach Bergland by following scenic routes that wind through the U.P., arriving at a lakeside community where tranquility awaits.
3. Ontonagon: Where Time Stands Still Along the Ontonagon River
Perched along the banks of the Ontonagon River, the village of Ontonagon is a place where time seems to stand still. Home to about 1,300 residents, this historic town offers a slow-paced lifestyle that attracts those seeking solitude and a touch of nostalgia.
Visitors can explore the Ontonagon Lighthouse, enjoy sandy beaches on Lake Superior, or venture into the nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The main industries include forestry, small businesses, and tourism, with a focus on preserving the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Ontonagon’s remote riverside location and the surrounding wilderness contribute to its secluded atmosphere. It’s a place where visitors can unwind, appreciate the simple things, and feel connected to both community and nature.
Where is Ontonagon?
Located at the mouth of the Ontonagon River on the shores of Lake Superior, Ontonagon sits in the western part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from larger cities and the vast expanse of Lake Superior that stretches beyond its shoreline.
Ontonagon is reached via US Highway 45 and M-38, with the journey offering scenic views of forests and lakes. The combination of riverside charm and lakeside vistas makes Ontonagon a secluded gem waiting to be explored.
2. White Pine: The Quiet Retreat Nestled Amongst the Pines
Nestled amongst dense pine forests, White Pine is a quiet retreat in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With approximately 500 residents, the community offers a peaceful haven away from the bustle of city life.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which is just a short drive away, or exploring local trails perfect for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
The town has a history rooted in copper mining, though the mines have since closed, leaving behind a legacy and a tight-knit community. White Pine’s seclusion is due to its location surrounded by forests and minimal development, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility.
Here, the whisper of the pines creates a soothing backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Where is White Pine?
White Pine is located in Ontonagon County, along M-64, tucked between Lake Superior’s shoreline and the Porcupine Mountains. Its remote setting is underscored by the expansive forests that envelop the town, creating a barrier from the outside world.
The seclusion of White Pine is amplified by its distance from major highways and urban areas, offering a true escape into nature. Travelers can reach White Pine by following scenic routes through the Upper Peninsula, arriving at a destination where the serenity of the pines awaits.
1. Silver City: A Hidden Gem on Lake Superior’s Shore
Silver City is a hidden gem located along the pristine shores of Lake Superior. This small community, home to just a handful of residents, exudes untouched natural beauty and a serene atmosphere ideal for a quiet escape.
Visitors can explore the nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, enjoying hiking, wildlife watching, and breathtaking views of the lake. The local economy centers around tourism, with lodges and resorts offering cozy accommodations amidst stunning scenery.
Silver City’s secluded location away from bustling towns makes it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a close connection with nature. Here, the lapping waves of Lake Superior and the rustle of the forests create an idyllic setting for relaxation.
Where is Silver City?
Situated in Ontonagon County, Silver City lies along M-107 at the edge of the Porcupine Mountains and the shores of Lake Superior. Its secluded location is defined by the vast lake to the north and the dense forests of the state park to the south.
The town’s isolation is enhanced by the limited development and the sense of being enveloped by natural beauty on all sides. To reach Silver City, travelers venture along the scenic M-64 and M-107 highways, culminating in a journey that leads to one of Michigan’s most tranquil and picturesque destinations.
