Your Guide to Upper Peninsula Winter Adventures and Activities

Top Destinations for Snowmobiling, Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice Fishing, and Sledding in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Winter in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an unforgettable experience, with its snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and endless trails. Whether you're seeking the adrenaline of snowmobiling, the calm of snowshoeing, or the thrill of skiing, there’s something for everyone. Based at the The Kingfisher Lodge in Cornell, you’ll have luxurious, central location to explore all the best spots for winter adventures—most within an hour drive.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the region’s top activities, complete with tips for beginners, rental options, and places to eat or grab a drink after a day of exploring.

Snowmobiling

Top 3 Trails/Areas Within 2 Hours

  1. Hiawatha National Forest - 30 minutes away. This forest features hundreds of miles of groomed trails that wind through serene woodlands and around scenic lakes. Trailheads near Rapid River and Escanaba make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
  2. Big Bay de Noc to Garden Peninsula - 45 minutes away. Explore this quieter trail system along the Lake Michigan shoreline for stunning views and a peaceful ride.
  3. Marquette Snowmobile Trail Network - 90 minutes away. A favorite among riders for its diverse terrain and access to hundreds of miles of interconnected trails.

Snowmobile Rental Options

  • UP PowerSports Rentals (Escanaba): Conveniently located near Kingfisher Lodge. They provide rentals and safety gear for riders of all skill levels. Website
  • Adventure Sports Rentals (Marquette): Perfect for riders heading toward Marquette’s extensive trail network. Website

Tips for Beginners

  • Always carry a trail map or use a GPS device.
  • Wear layers and bring extra gloves or socks in case of wet conditions.
  • Purchase a Michigan DNR Snowmobile Permit before hitting the trails.
  • Don't forget to check the trail reports

Post-Ride Spots

  • Hereford & Hops (Escanaba): Refuel with hearty pub fare and local craft beers.
  • Moe's Pub (Escanaba): Known for its great pub fare and cozy atmosphere.

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Top 3 Ski Resorts Within 2 Hours

  1. Pine Mountain Resort (Iron Mountain) - 75 minutes away. Family-friendly slopes, beginner to advanced terrain, and on-site rentals make Pine Mountain a must-visit.
  2. Marquette Mountain Resort (Marquette) - 90 minutes away. Offers a wide variety of runs, night skiing, and a terrain park for snowboarders.
  3. Norway Mountain (Norway) - 80 minutes away. Perfect for families and beginners, with well-groomed slopes and a laid-back vibe.

Rental Options

  • Pine Mountain Pro Shop: Ski and snowboard rentals on-site.
  • Marquette Mountain Rentals: Reliable equipment for skiers and boarders.

Tips for Visitors

  • Arrive early for lessons or rentals to avoid long waits.
  • Bring a helmet and goggles for added safety and comfort.
  • Check the resort's website for current conditions and lift ticket deals.

Après-Ski Dining

  • Steinhaus (Marquette): Rustic, German-inspired dishes paired with craft beers.
  • Sol Blu Lounge & Taproom (Iron Mountain): A cozy spot for drinks and snacks post-skiing.

Cross-Country Skiing

Top 3 XC Ski Trails Within 2 Hours

  1. Days River Pathway (Gladstone) – 20 minutes away. This trail system offers loops for all skill levels, meandering through picturesque forests along the Days River.
  2. Valley Spur Trail System (Munising) – 70 minutes away. Over 27 miles of groomed trails in the heart of Hiawatha National Forest. Ideal for both classic and skate skiing.
  3. Escanaba Pathways XC Trails (Escanaba) – 20 minutes away. A convenient, beginner-friendly trail system located just outside the city.

Rental Options

  • Mr. Bike and Ski (Escanaba): Provides cross-country ski and snowshoe gear.
  • Down Wind Sports (Marquette): Excellent for those heading further north.

Tips for Beginners

  • Stick to groomed trails for easier gliding.
  • Use waxed skis appropriate for the conditions.
  • Pack a thermos of hot cocoa to stay warm!

Snowshoeing

Top 3 Snowshoe Trails Within 2 Hours

  1. Rapid River Falls Trail - 30 minutes away. A peaceful hike leading to frozen waterfalls, perfect for snowshoeing beginners.
  2. Fayette Historic State Park - 40 minutes away. Snowshoe through the park’s historic ruins and along the frozen Lake Michigan shoreline.
  3. Hiawatha National Forest - 30 minutes away. The forest offers endless ungroomed trails for a tranquil snowshoeing experience.

Tips for Beginners

  • Use poles for added stability on icy patches.
  • Stick to shorter trails until you’re comfortable with the pace.
  • Bring a camera for capturing the stunning winter scenery!

Ice Fishing

Top Ice Fishing Spots Within 2 Hours

  1. Little Bay de Noc - 20 minutes away. Known for its trophy walleye, northern pike, and perch.
  2. Indian Lake State Park (Manistique) – 60 minutes away. A popular destination for ice anglers targeting a variety of fish.
  3. Lake Independence (Big Bay) – 90 minutes away. Scenic and productive, with ample catches of yellow perch and northern pike.

Tips for Ice Fishing

  1. Bring a portable ice shanty or check for local rentals.
  2. Dress warmly in insulated boots and gloves.
  3. Use live bait like minnows for the best results.

Nearby Eats

  • Hereford & Hops (Escanaba): Cozy brewpub offering hand-cut steaks, wood-fired pizzas, and craft beers brewed on-site.
  • Big Spring Tavern (Manistique): Rustic tavern serving generous portions of American classics with a wide selection of beers on tap.
  • Thunder Bay Inn & Restaurant (Big Bay): Historic inn featuring hearty dishes like burgers, seafood, and homemade soups.

Sledding

Top Sledding Spots Within 2 Hours

  1. John D. Besse Park (Gladstone) – 20 minutes away. A family-friendly sledding hill with plenty of space for kids and adults alike.
  2. Ludington Park (Escanaba) – 15 minutes away. A local favorite for sledding with scenic water views.
  3. Shakey Lakes Park (Stephenson) – 60 minutes away. Offers a quieter, more secluded sledding experience.

Tips for Sledding

  • Wear a helmet for added safety on steep hills.
  • Bring extra sleds in case of mishaps.
  • End the day with hot cocoa at Drifter's Family Restaurant in Escanaba.

Why Kingfisher Lodge is the Perfect Winter Getaway

Kingfisher Lodge offers more than just a place to stay—it’s a haven after a day of outdoor adventure. Relax in the hot tub, enjoy a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, and warm up in luxurious surroundings. With plenty of parking for trailers and equipment, it’s the ideal basecamp for snowmobilers, skiers, and winter enthusiasts.

Plan Your Winter Adventure

Ready to embrace the beauty and excitement of a UP winter? Book directly with us and save 15% compared to Airbnb or Vrbo listings. Don’t wait—secure your dates today and start planning your unforgettable UP adventure!