We’ve been to Big Bay a few times over the years, but it was almost always to visit the historic Big Bay Lighthouse and a few waterfalls. During a 2020 visit, and again this summer, we turned off the other way where the road splits on the way to the lighthouse and discovered Burns Landing Historical Park. This park doesn’t look that big from the road and parking area, but its boardwalk trail leads to a beautiful stretch of Lake Superior beach!

The first thing you will notice when parking at Burns Landing Historical Park is the cabin. This is believe to be one of the first buildings in the area, dating back to the 1840s. Powell Township Parks and Recreation occasionally has the cabin open so you can see its restoration and learn more about the history of the area.

A boardwalk heads north from the parking lot and there’s a good chance you will already be able to hear the waves hitting the beach. This trail is not long, but is scenic and a great spot for birdwatching. We spotted a few woodpeckers and other birds here this June.

The boardwalk ends at the beach and emerges from the woods to offer a gorgeous view of Lake Superior. The beach here is sandy.

A covered picnic area is located next to the boardwalk by the beach.

To the left you can see for quite a ways, and to the right you can see the Big Bay harbor entrance.

During both of our visits we have been the only ones here, so I’m not sure if this ever gets as busy as the beaches in Marquette. The views were awesome and it’s neat to be down at water level since most of our other visits have had us visiting the lighthouse, which sits on a 40 foot tall cliff.

A small sign attached to the main sign for the park notes that funds from the sale of Michigan recreation passports has helped develop and maintain this beautiful site. We continue to believe the recreation passport is the best value in the Midwest (if not the whole country) and love seeing the results the program can bring!