Acres:49
Year Conserved:2015
County:Baraga
Category:Public Nature Area

Activities

Birding
Hiking on trails
Hunting
Nature viewing

Amenities

Kayak/Canoe access

Highlights

Koski Shores on Keweenaw Bay offers the adventurous sightseer opportunities for unparalleled exploration. The property includes over half a mile of rocky, remote shoreline on Keweenaw Bay. Wetlands blanket most of the interior, with thick alder, twisting cedars, ancient hemlocks, and other wetland species making travel through this nature area difficult. Countless animal species call this area home including a stunning shrub fen at the northeast corner of the property that is a perfect location for bird watchers. Few upland areas provide added diversity featuring mature maples and other northern hardwood forests.

Planning your visit

Be aware of the often soggy conditions! When traveling on Point Abbaye Road, watch for signs to show you where to park and begin your visit. A rough flagged trail will lead you through the forest to the shoreline. When lake levels are low, wide shelves of rock and cobble beaches are revealed, allowing easy access along its length. Note, most of the property is wetlands which makes travel difficult. The property can also be accessed from the water via small paddlecraft, though the nearest public launch is several miles away.

Why this place is special

Located along the rugged shores of Lake Superior, Koski Shores on Keweenaw Bay is comprised almost entirely of untouched Great Lakes coastal wetlands. The nutrient-rich waters that seep out of the wetlands and into the lake sustain a thriving near-shore fishery. The Keweenaw Land Trust purchased the 49-acre property in December 2015 with grant support from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service's National Coastal Wetlands Conservation program and a generous bargain sale from the landowners, Calvin & Gail Koski. The nature area adjoins Copper County State Forest land on two sides, helping to create a much larger conservation area. 

Maps & documents

The following documents provide additional details about this nature area.