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Winter in Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan does winter right. No gray, mushy, damp days here. Blue skies, crisp temperatures, and an abundance of snow makes winter just as it is supposed to be: perfect.

Cross Country Skiing

If you enjoy the vigorous exercise of cross country skiing, Northern Michigan is for you. More than a dozen trails attract a skiers. The Petoskey State Park, Wildwood, Nub’s Nob, and Birchwood Country Club are just a few great places to cross country ski. Each February, the Loppet takes place, a cross country ski trek from Harbor Springs to Cross Village.

Downhill Skiing

Downhill skiing is Northern Michigan. We boast of downhill skiing because we have it all: three spectacular resorts with a variety of terrain. Nub’s Nob and Boyne Highlands, both outside Harbor Springs, and Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls, provide a ski experience that will bring you back for more. Ski schools, racing, demonstrations, snowboarding, night skiing, apres ski… what more can you ask for?

Snowmobiling

If snowmobiling is your passion, then you have come to the right place. Miles and miles of trails can take you from the woods to the water’s edge, from the countryside to a spot for a warm drink. The annual Moose Jaw Safari attracts hundreds of snowmobilers each February as they sled from Harbor Springs to Lark’s Lake where the famous bean pot awaits.

Snowshoeing

It may be the old fashioned way to get around in the snow, but it works and is gaining in popularity every year. And one hour of moderate snowshoeing burns 700 calories. Try any of the area cross country ski trails or take part in guided snowshoe walks by the Little Traverse Conservancy.

Skating & Sledding

Iceskating on a beautiful winter evening with the stars overhead just can’t be beat. Outdoor rinks in Petoskey, Boyne City, Charlevoix, Boyne Falls, Harbor Springs, and Boyne Highlands; along with indoor skating in Harbor Springs, provide wonderful opportunities to glide across the ice. Sledding hills are perfect for a fast trip down the hill on a sled followed by hot chocolate in the warming house.

Winter Events

Downtown Petoskey Winter Carnival

Indian River’s Winterfest

Indian River’s Winterfest is packed with fun things to do including a poker run, bonfires, music, food, kid’s events, and more.

Looking for more events in Northern Michigan?

Discover More of Northern Michigan's Seasons

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

Spring in Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan appreciates spring after a long winter and holds lots of great activities to celebrate this time of year!

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

Summer in Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan appreciates spring after a long winter and holds lots of great activities to celebrate this time of year!

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

Fall in Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan appreciates spring after a long winter and holds lots of great activities to celebrate this time of year!

Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Downtown Mackinac Island

Get off the ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace to Mackinac Island and the first thing you’ll see is the historic downtown area.

Beaver Island

Beaver Island Up North

Beaver Island is located 32 miles offshore of Charlevoix, Michigan and is the largest island in Lake Michigan.

Fishermans Island State Park

Fisherman’s Island State Park

Fisherman’s Island State Park has more than 2,600 acres and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beach and is located just south of Charlevoix.

Northern Michigan Beaches

Summer’s not summer without a day at the beach and Northern Michigan offers some of the best beaches anywhere.