MUNISING, MI— Strong autumn winds sent large waves crashing into the iconic sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
West winds near 15 to 20 mph built waves of 4 to 7 feet along the stretch between Munising and Grand Marais this week, with some larger swells rolling in from the open lake. Spray lifted into the air around Miners Castle, Lover’s Leap and Chapel Rock throughout the course of the afternoon.
MLive senior photographer Joel Bissell captured stunning images while hiking the 10-mile Chapel-Mosquito trail loop (check back soon for the fall photos).
Despite the rough water, Lake Superior held its signature turquoise and deep blue colors — rolling waves catching flashes of sunlight as they struck the sandstone walls.
A Small Craft Advisory was in effect as west winds gusting over 20 mph built heavy surf along the stretch from Munising to Grand Marais.
1/27
Lake Superior waves at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Farther offshore, conditions were even more severe — with 8 to 11 feet swells occasionally in open waters and Gale Warnings posted for parts of eastern Lake Superior.
The iconic shoreline is constantly shaped by erosion and Bissell got a first-hand glimpse capturing waves as they crashed into the picturesque rainbow-colored cliffs.
The National Park Service reminds visitors to exercise caution staying on marked trails and well back from cliff edges, noting that the sandstone along Pictured Rocks is constantly eroding and can give way without warning.
Safety guidelines for kayaks and boats going out on their own can be found here. You can also find weather advisory on the National Weather Service website.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
