This small rural community in central Maine has deep Scandinavian roots from 1800s settlers. Local maple syrup production and Nordic skiing trails keep winter traditions alive.
In Norway, Michigan, you'll find stock cars thundering around Norway Speedway's track on Friday nights, kayakers navigating Class IV rapids at Piers Gorge, and century-old Norway pines towering above the city streets. This small city in Dickinson County serves as a gateway between Michigan's Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin.
Transportation Hub
You can reach Norway via several major US highways that intersect in the city. US Highway 2 connects to Iron Mountain in the west and US 41 in the east. US 8 starts in Norway and extends into Wisconsin, while US 141 joins US 2 just west of the city. If you're flying in, Ford Airport in Iron Mountain, 15 miles away, connects to Detroit and Minneapolis through Delta Connection flights.
Racing at Norway Speedway
From May through September, engines roar every Friday night at Norway Speedway's 1/3-mile paved track. Local and regional drivers compete in late models, super stocks, and other racing classes at this American Speed Association member track. You'll get clear views of the entire oval from the grandstands, where you can watch both qualifying runs and main events throughout the racing season.
Piers Gorge Recreation
Walk the 2.6-mile Piers Gorge trail along the Menominee River to see the natural border between Michigan and Wisconsin. Four main overlooks give you views of the Class IV rapids below. From late spring through early fall, you can join guided rafting trips through the gorge - choose between family-friendly routes through Class II rapids or more challenging runs through Class IV whitewater. Local outfitters like True North Outfitters and Wildman Adventure Resort run daily trips when water conditions permit.
City Geography
Norway spans 8.8 square miles, mostly land area. While the city operates independently from Norway Township, it sits within the township's southwest section. The original Norway pine forest that inspired the city's name in 1891 still grows in patches throughout the area, with some trees reaching heights of 100 feet. You'll find most businesses and homes in the central district, while pine forests and hardwoods cover the outskirts.
