Best Cross Country Skiing in the Upper Peninsula
Have you been trying to decide where to visit in the Upper Peninsula for the best cross-country skiing? The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is well known for being one of the best places in the United States to glide down snowy trails in the winter months. Starting in November and extending into April, you can ski miles of beautifully groomed trails in enchanting snowy forests. From Ironwood to Drummond Island, an abundance of historic sites, local wildlife, glistening frozen waterfalls, and Lake Superior beaches provide you with unforgettable memories and adventurous fun. Here, we will discuss the best places for cross-country skiing in the upper peninsula so that you can more easily plan your next winter escape!
Finding Amenities and Lodging in Upper Peninsula Towns for Your Ski Trip
As you plan your ski trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, it is important to know where you will be staying. Quaint Upper Peninsula towns are known for their inviting warmth and friendly small-town feel. Many of these towns in the Upper Peninsula offer fantastic lodging options. For example, Ironwood is a fantastic place to stay if you want to visit Copper Peak or any of the nearby ski trails, waterfalls, or natural areas. Many of these towns in the Upper Peninsula also have ski packages and amenities specifically designed to cater to visitors who are there for fun in the snow.
Renting and Buying Skis in the U.P.
Some people prefer to rent skis when they get to the U.P. Not to worry, there are plenty of awesome places where rentals are available. You can also purchase skis from sports shops in the area. This is convenient for travelers who want to avoid packing bulky skis with them on their drive.
Outdoor Clothing and Winter Wear
If your local shops do not sell winter outdoor wear, don’t worry. There are plenty of fantastic places to shop for gear in the U.P. Whether you need boots, gloves, coats, snow pants, underclothes, warm wear, wool garments, or something else, the Upper Peninsula is known for having some of the best outdoor and adventure gear shopping spots! In fact, the upper peninsula is the home of Stormy Kromer.
5 of the Best Upper Peninsula Skiing Areas and Cross-Country Ski Trails
You could spend years visiting the Upper Peninsula and still not glimpse every ski trail, forest area, and landmark location. This world-famous travel destination has some of the longest and most intricate ski and snowmobile trails in all of America. These trails often cross Lake Superior beaches and meander past iconic landmarks like lighthouses and waterfalls. That is why you must plan your trip carefully to pack in as much fun and relaxation as possible!
So which U.P. ski trail destinations are most popular? Copper Harbor and the Stonington Peninsula are very well-known locations for cross-country skiing. Drummond Island, Ironwood, and the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park areas are equally acclaimed. With that in mind, here are some of the top ski locations to visit in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!
1. Ironwood, Michigan
Ironwood, Michigan is undoubtedly one of the best cross-country skiing destinations in the Upper Peninsula. Not only does Ironwood have some of the best downhill and cross-country skiing access in all of Michigan, but there are plenty of ski resorts available for travelers to unwind after a long day hitting the powder.
The Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort is tucked away along the Gogebic mountain range of the Upper Peninsula. Or, check out the Snow River Mountain Resort. Located east of Ironwood and just north of Bessemer, you will find a 253-acre resort for an unparalleled downhill ski experience! Ironwood also gives you access to some of the best cross-country trails in all of Michigan. This is a world-class destination gateway for downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Plus, the Ironwood area is surrounded by over one million acres of national hardwood forests for an unforgettable, exciting, and enchanting winter wonderland escape. Suffice it to say, if you are looking for the best place to start as you plan your ski trip, Ironwood is it.
Learn More About Ironwood by clicking here.
2. ABR Trails
The ABR full-service ski touring center is located on more than 1100 scenic acres of assorted terrain types right along the Montreal River in Ironwood Michigan. These stunning forested trails are regularly groomed and maintained to give visitors the best cross-country skiing experiences possible. Webcam trailhead footage is even available online so that you can check the conditions yourself. Plus, trail grooming updates are given so that you can know when the best time to hit the powder is.
Learn More About ABR Trails by clicking here.
3. Copper Harbor Trail Systems
Answer the call of the wilderness in the Northwoods of Michigan as you ski Copper Harbor trails. Copper Harbor Nordic Ski Trails include multiple loops of forest trails and lakeside splendor. There are over 9 km of groomed loops for skiing. These trails pass through quaint villages near Fort Wilkins State Park. Plus, you can always find gorgeous scenic views along Lake Fanny Hooe!
Learn More About Copper Harbor Trails by clicking here.
4. The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
The Porcupine Mountain Winter Sports complex is located near the entrance of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. This area has breathtaking lakeshore views and is perfect for skiers and snowboarders in the Upper Peninsula. Enjoy 15 different regularly groomed trails and four gorgeous glade trails. These cross-country ski trails are some of the best in the nation and are easily accessible from the main ski area.
Plus, every year, this ski area is home to the Snowburst Winter Carnival. Every February, this Porcupine Mountains carnival brings fun and excitement. It is a fantastic event for families and travelers. Located just near M-107 past South Boundary Road, the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon areas are perfect for all kinds of skiing adventures.
Learn More About the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area by clicking here.
5. Swedetown Recreation Area
Near Calumet in the Western U.P., the Swedetown Recreation Area has 26,000 miles of cross-country ski trails. These trails are regularly groomed for classic skiing and snow skating. There are also another 10 miles of groomed winter fat bike trails that twist and turn for your exploration and adventure pleasure.
The main trailhead for Swedetown is located right off Osceola Road near the intersection of Swedetown Road. Also, there is plowed parking off State Highway M203 and near the Woodland trailhead. The Swedetown Recreation Area offers 1,900 acres of rolling wooded and forested land set aside for adventurers right outside of the Calumet township.
Learn More About Swedetown Skiing by clicking here.
Need Help Deciding Where to Visit in the Upper Peninsula? Travel Ironwood Can Help You Plan Your Ski Vacation!
Ironwood is unquestionably one of the best towns in the Upper Peninsula to stay in if you want to ski, snowboard, and have fun in the snow. Are you ready to start planning your cross-country ski adventure? Simply reach out to Travel Ironwood and we can help you find the best U.P. ski spots for the perfect winter expedition!