Shrine & Grounds

The Bishop Baraga Statue

The centerpiece of the shrine is a massive, 35-foot-tall hand-wrought brass sculpture weighing four tons. Mounted on a silver cloud overlooking Keweenaw Bay, the figure of Bishop Baraga holds a seven-foot cross and a 26-foot pair of snowshoes. The entire structure is supported by five laminated wood beams, each representing one of the major missions he established.

Family photo in memorial grotto
Boy running across bridge with statue in background

A Place for Families & Friends

The Shrine of the Snowshoe Priest is more than a historical monument; it is a peaceful destination for the whole family. With plenty of room for children to run and scenic spots perfect for a family picnic, we invite you to make a day of your visit to Red Rocks Bluff. Come see the stunning views of Keweenaw Bay from the Shrine!

We are a dog-friendly site! Your four-legged companions are always welcome to explore the grounds with you, provided they remain on a leash.

Photo by Greg Carrier. Gift Shop and Information Center at the Official Bishop Baraga Shrine Statue.

Photo Credit: Greg Carrier

Information Center

The Bishop Baraga Foundation owns and operates the "blue cabin" on the shrine grounds. We are currently transitioning this space from a gift shop into a dedicated Information Center and museum. Visitors can explore the life of the "Snowshoe Priest" and view rotating exhibits on local history, beginning with a featured display on the area's historic trains.

Please note that the neighboring "Shrine Gift Shop" is a separate, privately owned business, and the Foundation receives no financial support from its sales.

Bishop Baraga Shrine memorial grotto with flowers in the garden. Historic shrines in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Memorials and Donations

Candle Lodge

Light a candle for a loved one. Income from grounds offering receptacles, including candles, is used directly for maintenance costs.

Memorial Grotto

Gifts of $50 and $100 allow for a one by four inch or a two by four inch plaque with your wording to be added in honor of a departed relative or friend.

Commemorative Plaques

Significant donations of $1,000 or more are recognized with bronze plaques attached to the red rocks on the south side of the statue. Purchasers may choose wording on plaques.

Follow US 41 and turn onto Lambert Road by the tee pees. The yellow line on this map shows the way to the Shrine’s parking lot. Park and walk down the path to the Shrine.