DISCOVER THE SYLVANIA WILDERNESS

Do you love all things Nature? The Upper Peninsula has just the place for you to explore unspoiled beauty and back-country outdoor fun — the Sylvania Wilderness!

This 18,327-acre protected area is in the Ottawa National Forest and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It runs along the Wisconsin/Michigan border and is seven miles west of Watersmeet and 39 miles east of Ironwood. Your heart will soar as you stand amid virgin trees over 400 years old, play in over a dozen clear lakes and see abundant wildlife. Once you visit, you will want to return all four seasons!  

RESCUED FROM AXES

From as early as 600 A.D., the Ojibwa people frequented this forested area, hunting, fishing, gathering wild rice, gardening and making maple sugar. They called the land “katikitigon” which means “old planting ground.” Then, at the turn of the 19th century, American timber companies began felling much of Michigan’s oldest and biggest hardwood trees, except in this swath of wilderness.

In 1895, the fate of this old-growth forest almost ended. A.D. Johnson, a Wisconsin lumberman, purchased 80 acres of land around the present-day wilderness area. He intended to cut down the trees, but as soon as he saw the land’s pristine beauty he vowed to preserve it. He convinced his friends to purchase tracts of land and together they formed the Sylvania Club, promising to protect the area from destruction. The Sylvania Club became an exclusive resort for affluent guests who escaped here to hunt, fish and hike.

The U.S. Forest Service acquired the land in 1967, transforming it into a special recreation area. In 1987, the Michigan Wilderness Act designated Sylvania as a federal wilderness area, ensuring Johnson’s promise to protect it was not broken for future generations.

WHERE TO ENTER THE SYLVANIA WILDERNESS

You will access Sylvania Wilderness at the entrance station. To reach it, take U.S. 2 four miles west from Watersmeet. When you reach County Road 535, turn south and drive four miles to the entrance. 

DAY PASSES AND CAMPING FEES

Anyone entering the Sylvania Wilderness from May 15 to Sept. 30 must fill out a wilderness permit and keep it with them while there. Permits are available at the Entrance Station or any official trailhead. Annual passes are available by calling 906-932-1330. Place your vehicle/daily use fee in the tube at the Entrance Station or Clark Lake day use area. Do not put camping payments in the day-use tubes.

Backcountry campers must reserve their sites and purchase wilderness permits from May 15 to Sept. 30. Camping is first come, first served from Oct. 1 to May 14. 

Learn more about the day pass and camping fees, rules and regulations before you arrive. Pay fees in exact cash or by check; the Entrance Station will not have money to make change.

WHAT SETS THIS WILDERNESS APART

The Sylvania Wilderness is between the Lake Superior and Mississippi River drainage systems and contains some of the highest ground in the Midwest. Many of the lakes in the park are over 1,700 feet above sea level, resulting in deep, clear and landlocked bodies of water fed by springs and local runoff. The lack of surface streams entering the park helps maintain the pristine condition of these lakes. The wilderness features 34 named lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by record-size red and white pines. There are 25 miles of hiking trails and diverse glacial landforms, too.

SEE WHAT’S WILD HERE

Trees & Plants

Sylvania’s old-growth northern hardwood forests are some of the most extensive in North America, covering approximately 15,000 acres. Sugar maples, eastern hemlocks and yellow birch dominate the landscape.There are also white, red and jack pine, white spruce, balsam fir and paper birch trees scattered throughout the wilderness area. Wildflower seekers can spot rare orchids on their hikes. In the autumn, the hardwood leaves are ablaze with reds, yellows and oranges making it one of the most popular color tour destinations. Follow Tour 3. 

Wildlife

This protected area is a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, gray wolves, porcupines, bobcats, beavers, otters, coyotes, foxes, bald eagles, loons, great blue herons, barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, mergansers, ruffed grouse and ospreys. 

An Angler’s Paradise

It’s no surprise that so many avid anglers choose to stay at nearby lodgings or camp alongside their favorite fishing lakes. You can reel in trout, bass, walleye, panfish and pike from non-motorized boats, float tubes, wading or shore fishing, ice fishing in winter and using fly or spin rods. Before wetting your line, read Sylvania’s special fishing regulations.

In-Season Hunting 

Hunting is another favorite pastime in the Ottawa National Forest and its Sylvania Wilderness. You must carry a valid Michigan hunting license and follow state rules. When hunting for deer, the Sylvania Wilderness does not allow motorized vehicles or wheeled equipment, so you must pull out any carcasses. Find more hunting details.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

34 Crystal-Clear Lakes

The abundance of lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by trees, offer hours of paddling, fishing or simply pausing your life to enjoy the peacefulness. Clark Lake has a day-use facility with showers and restrooms, a picnic area, drinking water, a swimming beach, canoe access-boat landings, trailheads and parking. Crooked Lake is popular for fishing and paddling. It has a large parking area, restrooms and boat launch. This is the only lake where Sylvania Wilderness allows electric motors.

Nearby Picturesque Waterfalls

While Sylvania Wilderness does not boast large waterfalls, the Ottawa National Forest is home to several waterfalls worth visiting. Agate Falls and Bond Falls are two stunning examples that provide excellent photo opportunities.

KNOW BEFORE YOU EXPLORE

No Motorized Vehicles Allowed

• NO motorized, mechanized or gas-powered vehicles, including boat motors, snowmobiles, portage wheels and bicycles are allowed. 
• Electric boat motors are allowed on Crooked Lake with a maximum thrust of 48 lbs. (4 HP equipment). 
• Motorized wheelchairs are allowed.

Be Prepared to Portage Your Canoe/Kayak

The dozens of lakes offer days of exploration by non-motorized boats, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. Be prepared to portage your watercraft at several points.

Dogs Are Welcome

You may bring your dog to the Sylvania Wilderness and Recreation Area, but it must be on a six-foot or less leash at all times except during hunting seasons. You can not leave your dog unattended and they are not allowed on the Clark Lake beach and swimming area. 

Food and Beverage Container Rules

You may not bring metal, glass or foam food and beverage containers into the wilderness. This includes deposit bottles and cans. 

A FOUR-SEASON ADVENTURELAND

SPRING & SUMMER

These two warmer seasons bring a burst of life to the Sylvania Wilderness. The numerous lakes offer excellent opportunities for non-motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The 25 miles of hiking trails allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to serene lakeshores.

FALL

Autumn transforms the Sylvania Wilderness into a tapestry of vibrant colors as the hardwood foliage changes — contributing to the U.P. being named one of the top fall color destinations in the United States. Hiking during this time offers breathtaking views of the fall landscape. The crisp air and fewer insects make it an ideal time for camping at one of the 50 designated campsites. These sites, equipped with basic amenities like vault toilets, tent pads and fire grills, provide a rustic yet comfortable camping experience.

WINTER

Winter in Sylvania Wilderness is a tranquil experience. The lakes freeze over, creating opportunities for ice fishing. The snow-covered hiking trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You will love the quiet.

WHERE TO STAY 

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

Camping in the Sylvania Wilderness is one of the Upper Peninsula’s truest back-to-nature experiences. The 50 designated, primitive campsites are spread across eight lakes, each offering solitude and a close connection with nature. Each site has a fire ring and a wilderness latrine, with some offering more amenities. 

Reservations are required for camping between May 15 and Sept. 30 and are on a first come, first served basis from Oct. 1 to May 14. Wilderness permits are required year-round. You can reserve your campsite up to six months in advance at Recreation.gov. 

RELAX IN CLOSE-BY LODGINGS

If you plan to enjoy day visits to the Sylvania Wilderness there are severalf hotels and resorts in nearby Watersmeet and Ironwood. Book your stay to get the dates, amenities and rates you want. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at nearby dining options, too. Then return to surround yourself with the truly back-to-nature experiences that await in the Sylvania Wilderness! 

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