Northern Michigan and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are epicenters for outdoor lovers. These regions are connected to three Great Lakes and boast sparkling blue waters, thick evergreen forests, and flowing waterfalls. As a whole, this is one of the most stunning areas in the U.S. While summer is a popular time to visit Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, winter has just as much to offer.
During the winter, Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula are covered in a thick blanket of snow, making their natural settings all the more gorgeous and providing an environment perfect for exhilarating outdoor recreational activities. Let’s explore what makes Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula hubs for winter excitement.
Famed Ski Resorts
During the winter, people flock to Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula’s premier skiing destinations. Michigan’s highest mountains and thick snowfalls make for a skier’s paradise. Many high-quality ski resorts in the area offer thrilling hills for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels.
One such resort in the Upper Peninsula is Big Powderhorn, which boasts 45 excellent ski runs and three terrain parks. There is also a Bavarian-style village with delicious dining choices and lodge stays. Marquette Mountain is situated near the Upper Peninsula’s biggest city of Marquette and has 170 skiable acres with gorgeous views. Mount Bohemia is for experienced extreme skiers, offering some distinctive options, including the ability to helicopter in and ski a 900-foot vertical drop. It also has many unique lodgings and a Norwegian spa.
In Northern Michigan, you’ll find Boyne Mountain Resort. This massive ski destination includes 415 skiable acres, 60 skiable trails, and 12 lifts. Boyne Mountain has premier lodging options and is one of the busiest year-round attractions in Northern Michigan.
Other Exciting Winter Activities
Those who aren’t into alpine skiing and snowboarding can still find plenty of winter outdoor activities in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. These regions are hubs for nature-driven adventure, and the winter brings some of their most exciting activities. Whether visitors are hoping to hike to a frozen waterfall or cross-country ski with mountainous panoramas, there is an activity available.
One of the most popular winter activities in these regions is snowmobiling. The heavy snowfalls set ideal conditions, and both Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula have hundreds of miles of trails for snowmobilers. Dog sledding is also a favorite pastime across both regions, and many companies run dog sledding tours that make for a memorable winter experience.
With frozen lakes scattered throughout the area, Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula are havens for ice fishing. This is an ideal way to immerse oneself in nature and enjoy the tranquility of this stunning environment. Tip Up Town in Northern Michigan is one of the most sought-after areas for snowmobiling and ice fishing. These regions also have many cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails for all skill levels. These physically demanding activities are perfect for getting outside and being active on a chilly winter day.
