Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The cliffs run about twenty-four kilometres and rise up to sixty metres straight out of Lake Superior, and the colours are mineral stains: groundwater carrying iron leaves red and orange, copper leaves blue and green, manganese leaves brown and black, and limonite leaves white, streaking down the sandstone in bands. It was the first national lakeshore in the country, designated in 1966. The cliffs are properly seen from the water - boat cruises run from Munising and kayak tours go closer, with sea caves and arches along the face. Lake Superior is cold enough year round to cause immobility within minutes, and kayak rescues here have been fatal. In winter the cliffs and inland falls form large ice formations.

What you actually see

• Mineral-stained cliffs - iron red, copper green, manganese black.
• Up to sixty metres straight out of the lake - over twenty-four kilometres.
• Sea caves and arches - along the cliff face, best by water.
• Ice formations in winter - on the cliffs and inland falls.

When to go

June to October for boats and kayaks. A full day.

Honest expectations

The cliffs are only properly visible from the water. Lake Superior is dangerously cold and kayakers have died - go with an outfitter unless genuinely experienced. Cruises cancel in wind. Winter access is by snowmobile or on foot.

Nearby

Munising is west; Tahquamenon Falls is east.