Why jumping off Black Rocks in Marquette is cool experience, literally and figuratively

There are no shortage of popular tourist spots in Michigan during the summer, but there is one family-friendly spot in the Upper Peninsula that many in particular flock to.

If you know about the Black Rocks in Marquette, you know what I’m talking about. If not, then here’s why you should know more.

Located within Presque Isle Park in the Upper Peninsula city that’s located right on Lake Superior, the Black Rocks first and foremost provide visitors with breathtaking views of cliffs and Lake Superior.

But the Black Rocks also offer a staple not seen much in Michigan: Cliff jumping/diving.

There’s a designated spot where families can take a roughly 15-foot plunge (give or take water levels) into Lake Superior.

As seen in the video above, I took the plunge recently, which was the second time in my life doing so. Here is what the experience is like:

• Yes, the water is COLD. There’s no sugarcoating it. It’s a jolt to the body initially, even in July or August. But it’s also not like you’ll get hypothermia either. You can get used to it after a while.
• The water is PURE. While it is cold, the Lake Superior water is clear and fresh, not salty like an ocean.
• Strangely enough, your body feels really good in the minutes and hours after you get out. It’s almost like jumping in one of those therapeutic ice baths that help the body.
• It’s not THAT high. Sure, it’s higher than a normal diving board at backyard pool, but it’s manageable and there is a way to easily get out and either leave, or climb back up and do it again. It’s not like you’ll have to be one of those professional cliff divers who are seemingly nuts for how high they climb to jump.

In short, you can have an amazing experience at the Black Rocks simply by walking on them and getting countless photos with the breathtaking scenery as the backdrop.

But if you want to add a little adventure to your trip there and do something you can’t do in other parts of the state, a little cliff jump into Lake Superior can definitely make your memories warmer, even in chilly water.