Alger County Overview
Alger County is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along the southern shores of Lake Superior. Established in 1885, the county is known for its scenic landscapes, including cliffs, forests, waterfalls, and shorelines. The county is home to the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which attracts tourists year-round for hiking, boating, and sightseeing. Bordered by Marquette County to the west, Delta County to the south, and Schoolcraft County to the east, Alger County’s economy is driven by tourism, forestry, and outdoor recreation.
With a population of approximately 9,000 people, Alger County remains a predominantly rural region with small towns and vast wilderness. The county seat is Munising, which serves as the administrative and economic center. Its remote location and natural beauty make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- County Seat: Munising
- Number of Cities and Towns: 4
- Major School Districts: Munising Public Schools, Superior Central School District
Munising
Munising Overview
Munising is the largest city and the county seat of Alger County. Located along the southern shore of Lake Superior, it was established in the mid-19th century as a lumber town. Today, Munising is known for its proximity to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a 42-mile stretch of cliffs and rock formations along Lake Superior that draws thousands of visitors annually. Munising is bordered by Munising Bay to the north and Hiawatha National Forest to the south, offering a wealth of outdoor recreation options.
The city experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and cool summers. Munising is home to several notable landmarks, including the Munising Falls, Miners Castle, and Grand Island. These natural attractions make Munising a hub for tourists seeking to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness.
- Population: 2,347
- Population Density: 237 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 49862
- Road Network: State Highway M-28, State Highway M-94
- Nearest Airports: Sawyer International Airport (45 miles)
- Libraries: Munising School Public Library
- Hospitals: Munising Memorial Hospital
Schools in Munising
Munising is served by Munising Public Schools. Munising Elementary School (PreK-5) enrolls around 300 students and offers a strong curriculum focusing on early literacy, math, and science. Munising Middle/High School (grades 6-12) serves approximately 400 students, providing a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics, arts, and advanced placement courses. The small school size allows for individualized attention and strong community support, with a focus on preparing students for college and career opportunities.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais Overview
Grand Marais is a small, picturesque village located on the eastern edge of Alger County, along the shores of Lake Superior. Established as a fishing and lumber town in the late 19th century, Grand Marais is now primarily known for its tourism and outdoor recreation. The village is the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and sits near the Grand Sable Dunes, a major natural attraction. Its remote location, surrounded by forests and water, offers residents and visitors a tranquil, scenic setting.
The weather in Grand Marais is characterized by cold winters and cool, breezy summers due to its proximity to Lake Superior. Major landmarks in the village include the Grand Marais Harbor, the Gitche Gumee Museum, and the historic Grand Marais Lighthouse.
- Population: 300
- Population Density: 50 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 49839
- Road Network: County Road H-58, M-77
- Nearest Airports: Sawyer International Airport (75 miles)
- Libraries: Grand Marais Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Munising (Munising Memorial Hospital)
Schools in Grand Marais
Grand Marais is part of the Munising Public Schools district. Students typically attend Munising Elementary School and Munising Middle/High School, located about 45 miles away in Munising. Despite the distance, the district offers transportation services for students, ensuring they have access to a quality education. The schools offer a comprehensive curriculum with a strong emphasis on both academics and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and community service programs. The small class sizes and close-knit community environment allow students to receive personalized attention and participate actively in school life.
Au Train
Au Train Overview
Au Train is a small, unincorporated community located along the shores of Au Train Lake and near Lake Superior. The town was historically a trading post and later a logging town due to its strategic location along the river and lake. Today, Au Train is known for its outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and camping, thanks to its proximity to the Hiawatha National Forest and the scenic Au Train River.
Au Train experiences cold winters and mild summers, typical of the Upper Peninsula. The town’s landmarks include the Au Train River, Au Train Beach, and the historic Au Train Depot, which reflects the community’s logging past. The area is popular among outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for water sports and hiking.
- Population: 300 (includes surrounding area)
- Population Density: 40 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 49806
- Road Network: State Highway M-28
- Nearest Airports: Sawyer International Airport (45 miles)
- Libraries: Nearest library in Munising
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Munising (Munising Memorial Hospital)
Schools in Au Train
Students in Au Train attend schools in the Munising Public Schools district. Students typically go to Munising Elementary School (PreK-5) and Munising Middle/High School (grades 6-12). These schools provide a variety of educational programs designed to meet the needs of students at different academic levels. In addition to core subjects, students have access to extracurricular activities, including outdoor education, reflecting the region’s natural environment. The district places a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal development, with a supportive staff and community.
Chatham
Chatham Overview
Chatham is a small town located in the southern part of Alger County. Established as a farming community in the late 19th century, Chatham has a long history of agriculture, particularly dairy farming. The town is known for its agricultural research center, which supports local farming activities and contributes to the regional economy. Chatham is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and farmland, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Chatham experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The town is home to landmarks such as the U.S. Forest Service’s Chatham Experimental Forest and several historic buildings that reflect its agricultural heritage. Chatham also serves as a gateway to the Hiawatha National Forest, offering outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Population: 220
- Population Density: 30 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 49816
- Road Network: State Highway M-94
- Nearest Airports: Sawyer International Airport (40 miles)
- Libraries: Nearest library in Munising
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Munising (Munising Memorial Hospital)
Schools in Chatham
Chatham is served by the Superior Central School District. Superior Central School (PreK-12) enrolls about 300 students and offers a comprehensive education for all grade levels. The school provides a well-rounded curriculum with a focus on academic excellence, technology, and extracurricular programs, including athletics and music. Due to its rural location, Superior Central School plays a central role in the community, with strong parental involvement and support. The small class sizes allow for individualized instruction, ensuring students receive the attention they need to succeed academically.