Painted Coves

Paddle beneath the towering sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where nature has painted the rock face with vibrant hues. Stretching over 15 miles along Lake Superior’s shoreline, these cliffs rise between 50 to 200 feet above the water, adorned with streaks of red, orange, green, blue, brown, black, and white. These colors result from minerals like iron, copper, manganese, and limonite seeping through cracks and staining the rock

As you kayak close to these cliffs, you’ll witness formations sculpted by centuries of erosion—arches, caves, and pillars carved by wind and waves. The best views are from the water, especially in the late afternoon when sunlight enhances the cliffs’ colors .National Park Service

Experience this natural wonder on our Taste of the Rocks tour, Paddlers Choice Tour, and our Paddle and Hike Tour. Each offers a unique perspective of the cliffs, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and geology of Pictured Rocks.