Pictured Rocks Chapel Beach Backcountry Access

Before the crowds hit Chapel Beach from the hiking trails, old-school overlanders accessed these iconic sandstone cliffs via the forgotten CR-H58 logging spur that dead-ends at the dunes overlooking Grand Portal Point. This 28-mile route winds through dense hardwood forest, past beaver ponds, and over glacial ridges before dropping to within a quarter-mile of some of Superior’s most spectacular coastline. The final descent requires careful line choice through loose sand and exposed roots.

Moderate difficulty with one technical sandy descent requiring momentum and steering finesse. Stock 4WD with good tires handles it fine in dry conditions — avoid during spring thaw or after heavy rain when clay becomes impassable. July through September offers best conditions. No permits for the forest roads, but camping requires backcountry permits from the park service. Munising is your fuel/supply stop. Reward: private access to some of Michigan’s most photographed coastline without the tourist bus crowds.