Au Train, MI - Bouldering

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Au Train , Michigan climbing page

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Introduction:
In case you find yourself in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and are dying for a place to climb I have a few solutions. After years of climbing in Lower Michigan's only natural climbing area (Grand Ledge), I decide to visit the Upper Peninsula (UP) in search of other Michigan crags. There are several areas along the Lake Superior side of Michigan's UP. The greater Marquette area has the largest concentration; including Palmer Cliffs, Nagaunee Slab, Presque Isle, and Marquette Mountain.
On your way to Marquette you will pass this small but fun location I called the shoreline boulders. As you are driving along the coast there are scenic picnic pull-offs. I found this one near Au Train, There is a great beach, and at the end of this beach I found a small, completely un-climbed bouldering area. Contending with the sand proved to be annoying, so a tarp might help

I was convinced this shoreline would be lined for miles with only sand and cobble stones. Then I happen to find this little oasis! This region also boasts an abundance of waterfalls, there is small one directly across the highway from this area. Au Train bay, lake, and river are located between Munising and Marquette on the shores of Lake Superior.

The cliff line extends for many miles along the shore, but much of this is along the water. The sandstone area ranges from 6 to 16 feet tall, and has several roofs, and faces that look fun. If you are planning a trip to Marquette this little bouldering are will provide a few hours of fun, but it alone is not worthy of a special trip. There is a gas station, cabins, canoe rentals, and various other activities available in Au Train. The best bet for food is in Munising and Marquette. Make sure to get a Pasty while you are up there (a local favorite). Don't buy one from a gas station though!

Also if you ever have a chance to get a boat ride out to Au Train Island, you will be greeted be some cliffs that rival the bluff in Negaunee.

Directions

Recommended Gear
Bouldering:
Crash Pad
hold brush
Blow hose
Chalk Bag
Climbing shoes
Tarp and Towel, Bathing suit?

Season:
Best time of year is summer. This region see normal amounts of rain, and remains between 60 and 80 degrees. Winter is an excellent time to try Ice Climbing, since temps range below freezing. Michigan's Upper Peninsula is a nice break from climbing the south, where temps are almost always in the 80's.

Guidebooks:
There are absolutely NO guidebooks available for this bouldering area. If you decide to climb near Marquette stop by "Down Wind Sports" to ask for some assistance. If you establish any lines please shoot me an e-mail and I'llmake sure it is credited.

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Other climbing in the area
Presque Isle | Climbing Main