Cities and Towns in Dickinson County, Michigan

Founded in 1891, Dickinson County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Dickinson County was formed from parts of Iron County, Marquette County and Menominee County. The city of Iron Mountain is the county seat. With FIPS code of 43, Dickinson County has a population of 25,787 and area of 777 square miles (2,012 km²).

List of all cities in Dickinson County, MI alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Channing, MI 49815 906
East Kingsford, MI 49801 906
Felch, MI 49831 906
49877 906
Foster City, MI 49834 906
Iron Mountain, MI 49801 906
49802 906
49831 906
Kingsford, MI 49802 906
Kingsford Retail, MI 49801 906
Loretto, MI 49852 906
Northland, MI 49831 906
Norway, MI 49870 906
Quinnesec, MI 49876 906
Ralph, MI 49877 906
Sagola, MI 49881 906
Vulcan, MI 49852 906
49892 906

Major Cities and Towns in Dickinson County, Michigan

1. Iron Mountain

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 7.37 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 7,518 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 49801
  • Latitude: 45.8206° N
  • Longitude: 88.0656° W

Location and History

Iron Mountain, the largest city in Dickinson County, is located near the Wisconsin border in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It was founded in the late 19th century during the iron mining boom. Iron Mountain quickly became a significant mining center, named after the rich iron ore deposits in the area. The development of railroads further fueled its growth, allowing for easy transportation of iron ore to other parts of the country. While the mining industry has diminished over time, Iron Mountain has diversified its economy, incorporating manufacturing, services, and tourism, with its proximity to outdoor recreation making it a hub for visitors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Iron Mountain is served by Iron Mountain Public Schools, with Iron Mountain High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks include Millie Hill Bat Cave, which offers guided tours and stunning views of the city from its scenic overlook. Pine Mountain Ski Jump, one of the highest artificial ski jumps in the world, hosts annual competitions and offers year-round recreation. The Cornish Pump Museum, housed in a former iron mine building, provides insights into the city’s mining history. Fumee Lake Natural Area is a local favorite for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, offering miles of trails through beautiful forests and wetlands.

2. Kingsford

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 4.47 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,139 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 49802
  • Latitude: 45.7989° N
  • Longitude: 88.0881° W

Location and History

Kingsford, located just west of Iron Mountain, shares a rich history with its neighboring city, having been founded during the iron mining boom of the late 19th century. The town developed rapidly when the Ford Motor Company established a plant there in the 1920s, which produced wooden parts for the Model T and later manufactured Kingsford charcoal. The Ford plant spurred economic growth and helped establish Kingsford as an industrial hub in the Upper Peninsula. Today, Kingsford has transitioned into a primarily residential community with a mix of small businesses and industries, benefiting from its close proximity to Iron Mountain.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kingsford is part of the Breitung Township Schools district, with Kingsford High School serving local students. Key landmarks include Ford Airport, which serves Dickinson County and provides commercial flights to major hubs. Menominee River Park offers scenic views of the Menominee River and recreational opportunities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Lodal Park, a popular spot for families, includes playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Pine Mountain Music Festival attracts music enthusiasts to Kingsford and nearby towns every summer. Fosberg Falls, located just outside Kingsford, is a popular hiking destination, offering picturesque waterfalls and forested trails.

3. Norway

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 8.91 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,832 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 49870
  • Latitude: 45.7900° N
  • Longitude: 87.9031° W

Location and History

Norway is located to the east of Iron Mountain in Dickinson County, and like its neighboring cities, it was founded as a mining town in the late 19th century. Named after the Norwegian immigrants who first settled in the area, Norway quickly developed into a bustling community centered around iron mining. The opening of the Norway Mine, which operated for many decades, contributed significantly to the city’s growth. As the mining industry declined, Norway transitioned to other industries, including manufacturing and retail, while maintaining its small-town atmosphere. Today, Norway is known for its historic charm and access to outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Norway is part of the Norway-Vulcan Area Schools district, with Norway High School serving the community. Major landmarks include Marion Park, a local park featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and a community swimming pool. Norway Spring, a fresh water spring that has been a popular spot for locals to collect drinking water for over a century, is one of the town’s unique attractions. Piers Gorge, located on the Menominee River, is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and offers hiking trails with views of dramatic rapids and waterfalls. The Norway Speedway attracts racing enthusiasts with weekly stock car races during the summer.

4. Felch

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 71.4 square miles (township)
  • Population: Approximately 752 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 49831
  • Latitude: 45.9969° N
  • Longitude: 87.8256° W

Location and History

Felch is a rural township located in the northern part of Dickinson County. It was settled in the late 19th century, primarily by Swedish immigrants who were drawn to the area’s abundant forests and farmland. Felch developed as a small agricultural community, with logging also playing a significant role in its early economy. The town has remained relatively small, retaining its agricultural roots while attracting those who enjoy the peace and quiet of rural living. The area is known for its scenic beauty, including forests, lakes, and rivers that offer outdoor recreation year-round.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Felch is served by North Dickinson County Schools, with North Dickinson High School being the main educational institution. Landmarks include the Felch Township Historical Museum, which provides insights into the community’s Swedish heritage and logging history. Norway Lake, located nearby, is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and camping. Gene’s Pond State Forest Campground offers rustic camping and opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and canoeing. Felch is also home to the Felch Labor Day Festival, an annual event that includes a parade, games, and other community activities, celebrating the area’s strong sense of tradition and rural life.

5. Quinnesec

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 1.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,191 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 49876
  • Latitude: 45.8000° N
  • Longitude: 87.9919° W

Location and History

Quinnesec is a small unincorporated community located southeast of Iron Mountain, near the Menominee River. The village was established in the 1870s as a mining town during the iron ore boom in the Upper Peninsula. Quinnesec was home to some of the region’s earliest iron mines, and the village grew rapidly as miners and their families settled in the area. After the decline of the mining industry, Quinnesec maintained its close-knit community feel, with many residents finding work in nearby towns like Iron Mountain and Kingsford. Today, Quinnesec is a quiet residential area known for its historic homes and natural surroundings.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Quinnesec is part of the Breitung Township Schools district, with students attending Kingsford High School. Key landmarks include the Quinnesec Falls, a series of picturesque waterfalls along the Menominee River that attract visitors for hiking and photography. The Menominee River offers excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Fumee Lake Natural Area, located nearby, is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing. The Quinnesec Recreation Area provides playgrounds and sports facilities, making it a popular gathering spot for local families. The village hosts community events throughout the year, including summer picnics and holiday celebrations.