About Iron County
Welcome to Iron County
Crystal Falls Township is proud to be part of Iron County, a beautiful and historic community located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula along the Wisconsin border. Known for its forests, lakes, rivers and Northwoods character, Iron County offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation and a rich history shaped by mining, lumbering and the people who built their lives here.
Iron County was established in 1885 from portions of Marquette and Menominee counties. The county was named for the iron ore deposits that helped fuel its early growth and development. Today, the county is home to approximately 11,800 residents and encompasses about 1,211 square miles, making it one of Michigan's largest counties by area.
A Rich Mining and Lumbering Heritage
The story of Iron County is closely connected to the discovery and development of iron ore. Prospectors began exploring the area in the late 1800s, and the arrival of the railroad in 1882 made it possible to transport iron ore to markets and Great Lakes ports. Mining quickly became one of the area's primary industries, helping communities such as Crystal Falls and Iron River grow.
Lumbering also played an important role in the county's development. The area's extensive forests attracted logging operations, and the timber industry became an important part of the local economy. Although the large-scale mining era eventually came to an end, forestry continues to play an important role in Iron County today.
Crystal Falls — County Seat
Crystal Falls has served as the county seat since 1889. The community's selection as the permanent county seat followed a spirited dispute with Iron River, which had initially been designated as the temporary county seat when Iron County was created.
The dispute became one of the most colorful chapters in local history. In the late 1880s, county records were secretly moved from Iron River to Crystal Falls in an effort to secure the county seat. A subsequent election ultimately confirmed Crystal Falls as the permanent county seat.
Today, the historic Iron County Courthouse remains one of Crystal Falls' most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1890, the Richardsonian Romanesque-style courthouse is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places and is an important part of Iron County's heritage.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
Iron County's forests, waterways and public lands provide year-round opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The county includes hundreds of lakes, numerous rivers and streams, and approximately 400,000 acres of public forestland within the Ottawa National Forest.
Residents and visitors enjoy:
- Fishing and boating
- Hiking and nature trails
- Hunting
- Camping
- Snowmobiling
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
- Downhill skiing and snow tubing
- Wildlife watching
- Exploring local parks, forests and waterways
The county's outdoor recreation is an important part of what makes this area special. From quiet lakes and wooded trails to rushing rivers and expansive forests, there are opportunities to experience the Northwoods in every season.
Communities of Iron County
Iron County includes the cities of Crystal Falls and Iron River, as well as several townships and smaller communities. Each community has its own history and character, while sharing the county's strong connection to the outdoors and its mining and lumbering heritage.
Crystal Falls Township is located just outside the City of Crystal Falls and encompasses approximately 148,703 acres. The Township is surrounded by the natural beauty that defines much of Iron County, including forests, lakes, rivers and recreational areas.
A Community with a Proud Past and Bright Future
Iron County's history can still be seen throughout the area — in its historic buildings, former mining locations, museums, trails and long-standing communities. At the same time, the county continues to evolve through tourism, forestry, healthcare, manufacturing, small businesses and outdoor recreation.
Whether you live here, are visiting the area or are considering making Iron County your home, there is plenty to discover. Crystal Falls Township is proud to be part of this unique Upper Peninsula community and its continuing story.
Learn More About Iron County
For additional information about Iron County's history, government, communities, and attractions, visit the Iron County, Michigan website↗ or the Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance↗.