From kayaking the crystal-clear waters of McCarty’s Cove to hiking the picturesque, 47-mile Iron Ore Heritage Trail, it’s no surprise that tourism is responsible for 15% of Marquette County’s economy — generating about $250 million per year.
But as you plan your next trip to the U.P. (or anywhere!), the folks at Respect Marquette County ask that you review the seven principles that the coalition adopted through its partnership with Leave No Trace, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating people on how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly in order to avoid environmental degradation.
- Know before you go: Research trail conditions, campsite availability, etc.
- Stick to trails and campsites: Protect plants and respect private property.
- Trash your trash: This protects wildlife, water sources, and other visitors.
- Leave it as you find it: This protects nature and reduces the spread of invasive species.
- Be careful with fire: Buy firewood locally; keep fires small; burn all wood to ash.
- Keep wildlife wild: Observe from a distance; never approach, follow, or feed them.
- Share our trails and manage your pet: Hikers yield to uphill hikers, bikers yield to hikers, and everyone yields to horses and wheelchairs; keep pets leashed and under control.
“It’s about creating shared values around stewardship and respectful enjoyment of the natural beauty that surrounds us,” Travel Marquette CEO Susan Estler says.
Respect Marquette County was founded in 2022 following a collaborative planning session involving approximately 25 community stakeholders who were interested in creating a healthy environment for tourism. It is the only formal coalition of its kind in the Upper Peninsula.
This story is a part of our Insider’s Guide to Michigan Lake Towns. Read the full story here.
This story originally appeared in the July 2025 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. To read more, pick up a copy of Hour Detroit at a local retail outlet. Click here to get our digital edition.
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