Iron County, County government area in Upper Peninsula, Michigan, United States
Iron County is an administrative area in the southwestern Upper Peninsula of Michigan, bordering Wisconsin to the southeast. The county covers approximately 313,700 hectares (775,000 acres) of land, with Crystal Falls serving as its administrative center.
The county was established on April 3, 1885, following growth in iron ore mining and logging operations in the region. These resource industries shaped early settlement patterns and the area's economic development.
Crystal Falls, the county seat, maintains heritage trails that document the industrial past through preserved mining sites and historical buildings. Visitors can see how the communities once centered their lives around extraction and production work.
The area is accessible by highway, and Crystal Falls provides basic services and lodging for visitors. The Upper Peninsula's harsh climate requires proper preparation, especially during winter months.
The name refers to extensive iron ore deposits that fed early railroad operations, with substantial amounts shipped in the first year of rail service. This mineral wealth was central to the region's infrastructure development.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Bond Falls
52.8 km
Iron County MRA
12.3 km
Agate Falls Scenic Site
53.9 km
Chapin Mine Steam Pump Engine
54.7 km
Bewabic State Park
14.6 km
Lake Ellen Kimberlite
26 km
Headwaters Wilderness
55.7 km
Blackjack Springs Wilderness
51.7 kmSturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
46.8 km
Iron Mountain Central Historic District
55.4 km
Crystal Falls Dam and Power Plant
17.8 km
Upper Twin Falls Bridge
49.8 km
Central School
16.4 km
Dickinson County Courthouse and Jail
55.8 km
Ardis Furnace
54.5 km
Grandma Lake Wetlands State Natural Area
44.5 km
Franklin Lake Campground
48.5 km
Canyon Falls Bridge
46.3 km
Florence County Courthouse and Jail
38 km
Iron County Courthouse
18.5 km
Forest Route 157–Tamarack River Bridge
36.3 km
Anvil Lake Campground Shelter
52.3 km
Bose Lake Hemlock Hardwoods
47.2 km
Fern School
42.7 km
Chicagon Mine Road–Chicagon Creek Bridge
12.8 km
World War II Glider and Military Museum
54.7 km
M 189 / W 139 Highway Bridge over Brule River
27.1 km
James W. Toumey Nursery
51.3 km
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes