Cities and Towns in Alger County, Michigan
Founded in 1885, Alger County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Alger County was formed from part of Schoolcraft County. The city of Munising is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Alger County has a population of 8,821 and area of 5,049 square miles (13,077 km²).
List of all cities in Alger County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Au Train, MI | 49806 | 906 |
| Chatham, MI | 49816 | 906 |
| Christmas, MI | 49862 | 906 |
| Deerton, MI | 49822 | 906 |
| Eben Jct, MI | 49825 | 906 |
| Eben Junction, MI | 49825 | 906 |
| 49826 | 906 | |
| Forest Lake, MI | 49862 | 906 |
| Grand Marais, MI | 49839 | 906 |
| Limestone, MI | 49816 | 906 |
| Munising, MI | 49862 | 906 |
| Rumely, MI | 49826 | 906 |
| Shingleton, MI | 49884 | 906 |
| Traunik, MI | 49891 | 906 |
| Trenary, MI | 49891 | 906 |
| Wetmore, MI | 49895 | 906 |
Major Cities and Towns in Alger County, Michigan
Munising
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 9.03 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49862
- Latitude: 46.4139° N
- Longitude: 86.6474° W
Location and History
Munising, located on the southern shore of Lake Superior, is the county seat of Alger County. Founded in 1850, Munising was originally developed as a lumbering and shipping hub due to its access to Lake Superior and abundant natural resources. The name “Munising” comes from the Ojibwa word for “at the island,” referencing the nearby Grand Island. Throughout the 20th century, Munising evolved into a tourist destination, primarily due to its proximity to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a stunning stretch of Lake Superior coastline featuring cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, and forests. Munising is now known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and its role as the gateway to one of Michigan’s most picturesque areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Munising is part of the Munising Public Schools district, with Munising High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and boat tours along the Lake Superior shoreline. Munising Falls, located within the national lakeshore, is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The Alger Falls and Wagner Falls Scenic Sites are additional natural attractions near the town. Grand Island, just off the coast, offers opportunities for camping, biking, and hiking. Munising’s WinterFest and Fourth of July fireworks over the bay are community events that celebrate the town’s spirit and connection to nature.
Chatham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.05 square miles
- Population: Approximately 220 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49816
- Latitude: 46.3426° N
- Longitude: 86.9250° W
Location and History
Chatham is a small village located in the central part of Alger County, approximately 20 miles inland from Munising. Established in the late 19th century, Chatham developed as a farming community, benefiting from the region’s fertile soil and abundant natural resources. It grew around the Marquette, Munising, and Southeastern Railway, which transported goods and people to and from the region. Agriculture continues to play an important role in Chatham’s economy, and the town serves as a central point for rural communities in the area. Its location in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula provides easy access to outdoor recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and hiking.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chatham is part of the Superior Central School District, with students attending Superior Central High School. Major landmarks include the Michigan State University Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center, which focuses on agricultural research and development in the region. The town is also near the Rock River Canyon Wilderness, a 4,000-acre wilderness area within Hiawatha National Forest, offering trails for hiking and wildlife observation. The Eben Ice Caves, located nearby, form naturally in the winter and attract visitors for ice climbing and photography. Chatham’s annual agricultural fair is a popular event that celebrates the town’s farming heritage, featuring livestock exhibitions and local produce.
Grand Marais
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49839
- Latitude: 46.6731° N
- Longitude: 85.9867° W
Location and History
Grand Marais, located on the eastern edge of Alger County, is a historic harbor town on the shores of Lake Superior. Founded in the late 19th century, Grand Marais originally served as a lumbering and fishing village. Its natural harbor provided shelter for ships navigating Lake Superior’s often treacherous waters. Over time, the community evolved into a popular destination for summer tourism, known for its stunning scenery, access to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and outdoor activities. Grand Marais also has a rich maritime history, which is preserved in its museums and historic sites.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grand Marais is served by Burt Township Schools, with Burt Township School providing education for local students through 8th grade. High school students typically attend Munising High School. Major landmarks include the Grand Marais Maritime Museum, which documents the town’s maritime heritage and the history of the Great Lakes shipping industry. The Grand Sable Dunes, towering sand dunes located at the edge of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, are a significant natural attraction. The Grand Marais Harbor and Agate Beach are popular spots for boating, fishing, and rock hunting. The town’s annual Music and Arts Festival and Fourth of July celebrations are key events that draw visitors from around the region.
Au Train
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,138 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49806
- Latitude: 46.4312° N
- Longitude: 86.8423° W
Location and History
Au Train is a small community located along the shores of Lake Superior, just west of Munising. The town takes its name from the Au Train River, which flows through the area and was historically a vital transportation route for Native Americans and fur traders. Settled in the 19th century, Au Train was initially a lumbering and fishing town. Today, the community is a quiet residential and recreational area, known for its access to outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and camping. Its proximity to the Hiawatha National Forest and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore makes it a prime destination for nature lovers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Au Train is part of the Munising Public Schools district, with students attending Munising High School. Major landmarks include the Au Train River, which is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Au Train Beach on Lake Superior offers scenic views and opportunities for swimming and picnicking. The Au Train Falls, located near the town, are a beautiful natural attraction, drawing visitors for hiking and photography. The nearby Hiawatha National Forest provides extensive trails for hiking, snowmobiling, and camping. Au Train’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a beloved destination for both residents and tourists seeking a peaceful escape in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Christmas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.13 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49862
- Latitude: 46.4228° N
- Longitude: 86.7075° W
Location and History
Christmas is a small, festive-themed town located just west of Munising on the shores of Lake Superior. The town was established in the mid-20th century when a local factory owner decided to name the area “Christmas” and build a holiday-themed roadside attraction. Over time, the town embraced its holiday identity, and today, Christmas is known for its year-round Christmas decorations and themed attractions. The town’s quirky holiday spirit draws visitors, especially during the winter months, when it becomes a popular stop for tourists exploring the Upper Peninsula.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Christmas is part of the Munising Public Schools district, with students attending Munising High School. Major landmarks include the town’s famous roadside Santa Claus statue, which greets visitors as they enter Christmas. The town is also located near the entrance to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the park’s natural wonders. The Kewadin Christmas Casino is a popular attraction for both locals and visitors, offering gaming, dining, and entertainment. With its proximity to Lake Superior, Christmas also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and snowmobiling in the winter months, adding to its appeal as a year-round destination.
