Winter Doesn’t have to suck!

As the holiday excitement fades and the New Year settles in, many of us in the Northern states find ourselves buried under a blanket of snow. With an average snowfall of well over 200 inches in some areas, it’s no wonder that the winter months can feel long and challenging. Seasonal depression, or the “winter blues,” affects many people during this time, making it even more important to find ways to stay active and engaged.

But here’s the good news: winter is the perfect time to see Upper Michigan in a whole new way. The snow-covered landscapes transform into a magical wonderland, offering unique opportunities for adventure and exploration. From frozen waterfalls to serene snowshoe trails, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights and activities to lift your spirits and keep the winter sadness at bay.

Winter in Upper Michigan unveils a hidden beauty that many overlook. The snow-covered landscapes transform familiar places into serene, picturesque scenes that are even more breathtaking than in other seasons. With fewer tourists around, you have the perfect opportunity to soak in the peaceful views and truly connect with nature. This is the time of year when it’s a good idea to slow your pace, listen to the quiet, and appreciate the tranquility that winter brings.

Let’s Get Out There

In this post, I’ll be sharing my top five places to visit in different parts of Upper Michigan during the winter. Hopefully, one of these is close enough for you to visit and experience the magic of winter firsthand or you may want to explore them all. At the end of the post, I have included a helpful itinerary with all five destinations to help you plan your next Winter adventure.

1. Presque Isle Waterfalls

Located in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the Presque Isle Waterfalls are a hidden gem in Upper Michigan. This area features a series of stunning waterfalls along the Presque Isle River, including Manabezho Falls, Manido Falls, and Nawadaha Falls. In winter, these waterfalls transform into breathtaking ice formations, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Getting There:

• By Car: If you’re driving, the best way to access the Presque Isle Waterfalls is from the west, near Wakefield. From Wakefield, take Highway M-28 and then turn north onto County Road 519. Continue on County Road 519 until you reach the Presque Isle River area within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. This route is approximately 22 miles long and will lead you directly to the park, where you can find parking and start your hike to the waterfalls.
• By Snowmobile: If you’re coming from the east through the park, the only way to access the Presque Isle Waterfalls in winter is by snowmobile. The park’s snowmobile trails provide a scenic and adventurous route to the waterfalls. Make sure to check trail conditions and maps before heading out.

The Hike: The hike to see all the waterfalls at Presque Isle River is a 2.3-mile loop trail. This loop includes sections of boardwalk, forested trails, and a suspension bridge, offering beautiful views of the frozen waterfalls and the surrounding winter landscape. The hike to the first waterfall, Manabezho Falls, is relatively short. The entire loop trail takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend admiring the falls. Since the trail is not groomed for walking in the winter, it’s recommended to bring snowshoes or ice cleats to navigate the snowy and icy conditions safely.

Winter Experience: Visiting the Presque Isle Waterfalls in winter is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The serene beauty of the frozen waterfalls, combined with the quiet of the surrounding forest, creates a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. Be sure to wear proper footwear to navigate the icy trail safely.

2. Bond Falls

Bond Falls, located in the western Upper Peninsula near Paulding, is one of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring waterfalls in Michigan. Known for its expansive cascades and serene surroundings, it’s a must-visit for hikers, nature lovers, and waterfall enthusiasts alike. In winter, the falls transform into a stunning ice formation, creating a gorgeous winter wonderland.

Getting There:

• By Car: To get to Bond Falls, take US-45 north from Watersmeet for approximately 8 miles. Turn onto Bond Falls Road and follow it until you reach the main parking area.
• From Presque Isle Waterfalls: If you’re coming from the Presque Isle Waterfalls, head south on County Road 519 and then take US-2 west. Continue on US-2 until you reach Watersmeet, then follow the directions above to reach Bond Falls. The drive is approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect next stop on your winter adventure.

The Hike: The base of Bond Falls is a short, five-minute walk from the parking area. Follow the paved trail to the 600-foot boardwalk, which offers multiple viewing platforms. The falls are 50 feet high and 100 feet wide, with waters flowing from the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, cascading in dramatic layers over a series of rock ledges.

Winter Experience: In winter, Bond Falls becomes a lovely and magical place. The frozen cascades create a stunning ice sculpture, and the surrounding snow-covered landscape adds to the beauty. The easy access and well-maintained boardwalk make it a perfect winter destination for families and photographers. Be sure to wear proper footwear, such as ice cleats or crampons, to navigate any icy patches safely. Note that in winter, the gate at Bond Falls is closed, so you’ll need to park at the top near the gate and walk down to the falls. Sections of the stairs alongside the falls are almost always covered in ice and can be extremely treacherous, so it’s usually better to walk down the road past the gate to see the falls from below.

Visiting Bond Falls in winter is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. The majestic scenery, combined with the quiet of the surrounding forest, creates a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.

3. Eben Ice Caves

The Eben Ice Caves, located in the Rock River Canyon Wilderness, are a must-visit winter attraction in Upper Michigan. These stunning ice formations are created by water seeping over the edge of the cliffs and freezing, forming beautiful ice curtains that glisten in the winter sunlight. The ice formations are constantly changing, making each visit a unique experience.

Getting There:

• By Car: To reach the Eben Ice Caves, travel to Eben Junction, Michigan. From there, follow Eben Road to Frey Road, where you’ll find a parking area. The hike to the caves starts from the parking area and is approximately 1.5 miles round trip.
• From Bond Falls: If you’re coming from Bond Falls, take US-45 north to Bruce Crossing, then head east on M-28. Continue on M-28 until you reach Eben Junction. The drive is approximately 2 hours, making it a great next stop on your winter adventure.

The Hike: The hike to the Eben Ice Caves is relatively short, about 1.5 miles round trip. The trail begins on private land off Frey Road, and the landowners have graciously allowed public access to their property for this purpose. Please be respectful of the trail and consider leaving a donation or making a purchase from their snack bar if available. The trail can be icy and slippery, so it’s essential to wear proper footwear, such as ice cleats or crampons, to navigate the conditions safely. The ice formations are constantly changing, creating a unique and breathtaking sight each year.

Winter Experience: Visiting the Eben Ice Caves is like stepping into a winter wonderland. The awe-inspiring beauty of the ice formations, paired with the quiet of the surrounding forest, creates a magical experience that is truly unforgettable. It’s important to note that the Eben Ice Caves are not traditional caves with solid walls. Instead, they are made up of vertical walls of ice that form when water seeps over the edge of the cliffs and freezes. These ice walls create a cave-like feeling, making it a unique and breathtaking sight. Also, don’t forget your camera—this is one winter adventure you’ll want to capture and share!

4. Grand Island Ice Caves

The Grand Island Ice Caves, located near Munising, Michigan, are a spectacular winter attraction in the Upper Peninsula. These natural formations are created by water seeping through the cracks in the cliffs and freezing as it flows to the ground below, forming intricate ice curtains and icicles that hang from the ceilings like stalactites.

Getting There:

• By Car: To reach the Grand Island Ice Caves, travel to Munising, Michigan. From there, you can access the ice caves by parking at Sand Point. The parking area is well-marked, and there are signs indicating the starting point for crossing the frozen Lake Superior. The hike across the ice is approximately 0.6 miles, and it’s recommended to wear snowshoes or ice cleats for better traction. Some people also use snowmobiles to reach the caves and you can book a tour that will take you out.
• From Eben Ice Caves: If you’re coming from the Eben Ice Caves, take M-94 west to Munising. The drive is approximately 1 hour, making it a great next stop on your winter adventure.

The Hike: The hike to the Grand Island Ice Caves involves crossing the frozen Lake Superior from Sand Point. The hike is approximately 0.6 miles, and it’s essential to wear proper footwear and consider snowshoes or ice cleats, to navigate icy conditions safely. In snow-covered instances you may want to consider using skis as well since there are un-groomed trails on the Island.

Winter Experience: The Grand Island Ice Caves offer a magical winter experience. The ice curtains and icicles are formed by water seeping through the sandstone bluffs, creating beautiful ice formations in clear, white, blue, and mineral-stained colors. The caves are not traditional caves with solid walls; instead, they are made up of vertical walls of ice that form when water seeps over the edge of the cliffs and freezes. These ice walls create a cave-like feeling, making it a unique and breathtaking sight.

Safety Tips: Before planning your trip, it’s essential to check the weather and ice conditions, as the thawing and freezing of the caves can be dangerous. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore website often provides updates on ice conditions and safety information for the area, including the Grand Island Ice Caves. Always use caution when venturing out on the ice, and be aware of large chunks of ice that may fall unexpectedly. It’s also a good idea to bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing for your adventure. Additionally, the area can be windy, so take wind chill and visibility into account when planning your visit. You are responsible for your own safety if crossing the ice and you do so at your own risk.

Note: in recent years, the ice curtains have not formed consistently due to warmer winter temperatures. The optimal conditions for the ice curtains to form typically occur towards the end of February, after several weeks of sustained freezing temperatures.

Visiting the Grand Island Ice Caves is a truly unforgettable experience. The serene beauty of the ice formations, along with the quiet of the surrounding winter landscape, creates a magical atmosphere that is perfect for a winter adventure.

5.Tahquamenon Falls

Tahquamenon Falls, located in the eastern Upper Peninsula near Paradise, Michigan, is one of the most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls in the state. The falls are divided into two sections: the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. In winter, the falls transform into a stunning ice formation, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Getting There:

• By Car: To get to Tahquamenon Falls, travel to Paradise, Michigan. From there, follow M-123 west to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park entrance. The park is well-marked, and there are several parking areas for visitors.
• From Grand Island Ice Caves: If you’re coming from the Grand Island Ice Caves, take M-28 east to Newberry, then head north on M-123 to Paradise. The drive is approximately 2 hours, making it a great final stop on your winter adventure.

The Hike: The hike to the Upper Falls is a short trail from the parking area. The trail is approximately 0.4 miles long and offers several viewing platforms to take in the stunning ice formations. The Lower Falls can be accessed via an 8-mile round trip snowshoe or groomed ski trail from the Upper Falls or by driving to the Lower Falls parking area and taking a short walk to the viewing platforms.

Winter Experience: In winter, Tahquamenon Falls becomes a serene and magical place. The frozen cascades create a stunning ice sculpture, and the surrounding snow-covered landscape adds to the beauty. The easy access and well-maintained trails make it a perfect winter destination for families and photographers. Be sure to wear proper footwear, such as ice cleats or crampons, to navigate any icy patches safely.

Winter Camping: Tahquamenon Falls State Park has recently opened up to winter camping, offering a unique and immersive experience for those who love the great outdoors. The Hemlock Campground at the Lower Falls is open year-round and offers a variety of camping options, including sites for RVs and winter tents. The campground provides basic amenities, such as electric hookups and picnic tables, making it a comfortable and convenient option for winter campers.

Safety Tips: Before planning your trip, it’s essential to check the weather and trail conditions, as the thawing and freezing of the trails can be dangerous. Always use caution when venturing out on the trails and be aware of icy patches that may be slippery. It’s also a good idea to bring plenty of water, snacks, and warm clothing for your adventure. Additionally, the area can be windy, so take wind chill and visibility into account when planning your visit. Walking onto the ice for different views of the falls is not recommended due to the unpredictable and unsafe ice conditions. Stick to the designated viewing platforms and trails for the best and safest views.

Visiting Tahquamenon Falls in winter is a truly unforgettable experience. The majestic scenery, along with the quiet of the surrounding forest, creates a magical atmosphere that is perfect for a winter adventure.

Planning Your Trip – 3 day Upper Michigan Winter Itinerary

Planning a trip to explore the winter wonders of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an exciting adventure. Given the distances and the time needed to fully enjoy each destination, I suggest that you spread this journey over a few days. Here’s a suggested three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your winter adventure. This itinerary assumes you are coming from the west, but you can adjust it based on your starting direction:

Day 1:

• Presque Isle Falls: Start your day with a visit to Presque Isle Falls in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Spend the morning exploring the falls and the surrounding park.
• Bond Falls: In the afternoon, head to Bond Falls near Paulding. Enjoy the picturesque cascades and take your time exploring the area.
• Lodging: Stay overnight in Bruce Crossing or Watersmeet, which are conveniently located between Bond Falls and the Eben Ice Caves. Options include the Running Bear Resort in Bruce Crossing (906) 827-3208 or the Dancing Eagles Resort in Watersmeet (906) 358-4949 which also has a casino.

Day 2:

• Eben Ice Caves: Begin your second day with a visit to the Eben Ice Caves. The hike is relatively short, but you’ll want to take your time to fully appreciate the ice formations.
• Grand Island Ice Caves: In the afternoon, drive to Munising and cross the frozen Lake Superior to reach the Grand Island Ice Caves. Make sure to check ice conditions and plan accordingly.
• Lodging: Stay overnight in Munising, which is close to both the Eben Ice Caves and Grand Island Ice Caves. Options include the Holiday Inn Express in Munising (906) 387-4800 and Comfort Inn & Suites Munising (906) 387-6600.

Day 3:

• Tahquamenon Falls: Spend your final day at Tahquamenon Falls near Paradise. Explore both the Upper and Lower Falls, and if you’re up for it, consider winter camping at the Campground. Reservation information can be found by calling (906) 492-3415 or go to Michigan State Parks reservation system.
• Lodging: Stay overnight in Paradise, which is close to Tahquamenon Falls. Options include the Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise (906) 492-3770 and Tahquamenon Suites Lodging (906) 492-3752.

Winter is the Best Time to Explore Upper Michigan

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers a winter wonderland filled with breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. From the serene beauty of Presque Isle Falls and Bond Falls to the captivating ice formations of the Eben and Grand Island Ice Caves, and the majestic Tahquamenon Falls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore these incredible destinations. Plan your trip today and create unforgettable memories in the heart of winter. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Upper Peninsula has it all.

Bundle up, grab your camera, and embark on an adventure to discover the winter magic of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Share your experiences and photos with us, and let us know which destination was your favorite.

Make sure to check out our YouTube channel where we share firsthand experiences of our beautiful area and family adventures—because videos are always better than words! You can also follow us on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram for more updates and inspiration.

Happy adventuring!