27 Frosty Places for Snowshoeing in Michigan With Scenic Views
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Snowshoeing has gained popularity as a fun winter activity since it provides a great chance to get some exercise.
In addition, snowshoeing in Michigan is a wonderful alternative if you don’t want to cross-country ski or snowboard. It’s also a great winter date activity or fun for the whole family.
We’ve created a list of recreation areas, parks, and trails where you can snowshoe while spending time with family and friends.
What Exactly Is Snowshoeing?
Basically, snowshoeing is hiking on snow with snowshoes strapped to your boots. You can use many of the same trails you’d hike in warmer months, and some areas also allow snowshoeing on multi-use winter trails.
If a trail is groomed for cross-country skiing, avoid stepping in the classic ski tracks unless the trail is specifically designated for snowshoers.
Snowshoeing began as a practical way to travel across deep snow, and versions of snowshoes were widely developed and used by Indigenous peoples in snowy regions of North America.
It’s a great activity for all ability levels and is just like walking, only with snowshoes on. It also offers a low-impact, cardiovascular workout, burning up to 1,000 calories every hour and building endurance and muscle – all while connecting you with nature.
To snowshoe, you need a pair of snowshoes with a wide frame that spreads your weight over a larger surface area. That added surface area helps create “flotation” so that your feet don’t sink as much in soft snow.
Generally, you can either purchase snowshoes or rent them. Rentals often cost around $10 for adult sizes, while buying a pair can cost about $100.
Below is a detailed list of places throughout Michigan where you can snowshoe and soak up some seriously beautiful winter scenery.
Best Snowshoeing in the Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers several amazing places that allow you to strap on your snowshoes and head out on a winter wonderland adventure.
Mount Bohemia Ski Resort | Keweenaw Peninsula
Located on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula near Lac La Belle (about 39 miles north of Houghton and Hancock), Mount Bohemia is known for having the longest runs, highest vertical, and deepest powder in the Midwest.
Snowshoers can explore over 12 miles of trails, located both on the mountain and at the Aqua Log Cabins. With an average of over 270 inches of snow each year and 585 skiable acres to roam, Mount Bohemia is built for big winter energy.
Michigan Tech Trails | Houghton
The Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton are open to snowshoers, even after dark. Nearby, people of all ages can snowshoe throughout several areas, including the hilly Pilgrim Community Forest.
If you want an easier, more laid-back snowshoe, head to Paavola Wetlands Nature Area just outside Hancock. This spot has gentle trails you can enjoy year-round, plus a universally accessible crushed-gravel loop with views of the beaver pond and the old farmstead clearing.
Mont Ripley Ski Area | Hancock
The Mont Ripley Ski Area offers trails that overlook the Keweenaw Waterway. It’s another excellent location near Michigan Technological University with snowshoeing in the area.
The ski area is open to all ages and skill levels with a mix of beginner hills through expert runs. Also, it’s billed as the oldest ski area in Michigan, with 112 acres of skiable terrain. There are even cross-country trails nearby.
Porkies Winter Sports Complex | Ontonagon
Also known as “The Porkies,” the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is one of Michigan’s premier winter destinations for snowshoeing.
The park’s Winter Sports Complex is the hub, with more than 25 miles of groomed trails and access to 90+ miles of ungroomed terrain throughout the park.
For something extra memorable, try the Superior Snowshoe Trail (Lantern-Lit Loop), a 1.5-mile family-favorite loop that glows with lantern light on Saturday evenings in winter.
Snowshoe rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and guided winter hikes are offered throughout the season.
Marquette Mountain Resort | Marquette
Just minutes from downtown, Marquette Mountain is an easy pick for winter fun, whether your crew wants to ski, ride, or try something a little different like snowshoeing.
And yes, the views are part of the experience here — you can catch sweeping looks toward Lake Superior while you’re out enjoying the mountain. With 330 total acres and an average annual snowfall around 210 inches, it’s built for real U.P. winter days.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park | Paradise
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a solid pick for winter exploring, with options for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in both the Upper Falls and Lower Falls areas.
The park offers 9 miles of marked snowshoe trails, and the Upper Falls area also has 4 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.
If you’re coming for the views, you’ll find multiple accessible overlooks. The Upper Falls day-use area has three accessible viewing platforms along a paved path.
Heads Up: The Upper Falls boardwalk is under construction through spring 2026, and the 4-mile River Trail connecting the Upper and Lower Falls is closed for the winter (reopening anticipated mid-May 2026).
Snowshoeing on Mackinac Island
In winter, the trails on the east side of Mackinac Island become the main hub for groomed cross-country skiing (snowmobiles aren’t allowed on those trails).
Depending on conditions, the Ski Club grooms about 5–10 miles most days, and sometimes up to 15 miles when there’s enough snow.
Snowshoeing is welcome too, just steer clear of the groomed ski tracks. And one important heads-up: There generally aren’t winter rental shops, so plan to bring your own gear (some lodging may have skis available).
If you want a fun “event-style” outing, the monthly Twilight Turtle Trek includes a lantern-lit route on 2 miles of relatively easy trails.
Peek-A-Boo Hill Ski Trails | Cedarville
Located in Cedarville, Peek-A-Boo Trails is a year-round, non-motorized trail system that’s open to hikers (and bikers) of all skill levels. In winter, it’s also a fun place to snowshoe or ski, with 3.8+ miles of stacked loops to explore.
The project was developed by Clark Township with support from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Top Snowshoeing Trails in Northern Michigan (Lower Peninsula)
The Northern Lower Peninsula has plenty of places that welcome snowshoers. Whether you’re based in Petoskey, Traverse City, Alpena, or Cadillac, you’ll find snowy trails and winter scenery within an easy drive.
Nub’s Nob Ski Resort | Harbor Springs
Nub’s Nob packs a lot into one place, with three peaks (Front Side, South Side, and Pintail Peak) and 53 runs that range from approachable to truly challenging. If your group has mixed comfort levels, the trail mix makes it easy to split up and meet back up later.
And, if you’re in Harbor Springs to snowshoe (or just want a quieter pace), Nub’s also offers Nordic snowshoeing, with dedicated Nordic tickets and snowshoe rentals available.
For the “big winter energy” details, the resort has 248 skiable acres and 320 snowmaking guns, plus a long-running focus on on-hill safety through its Ski Patrol program.
Otsego Resort | Gaylord
Otsego is a fun choice when your group wants options. While some people lap the Alpine runs or hit the terrain parks, you can take things at a slower pace on the resort’s 6.2 miles of marked Nordic (cross-country) trails.
And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, Otsego’s modern snowmaking and grooming help keep conditions more consistent across both its Alpine and Nordic terrain in Gaylord.
Boyne Mountain Resort | Boyne Falls
If your ideal snowshoe day includes a little “resort magic,” Boyne Mountain Resort delivers. Start at the Cross Country Center and take on about 3.1 miles of dedicated snowshoe trails, then swap stories over hot cocoa before your crew heads back out to ski or ride.
Nordic skiers get plenty to work with too, with about 21.7 miles of cross-country trails and named loops like Pancake (about 1.25 miles) and Vistas (about 2.5 miles).
And, when you’re done being outdoorsy, this is the spot that makes warming up part of the plan: Avalanche Bay indoor waterpark, Michigan’s largest spa, and even SkyBridge Michigan for a wintery view-check before dinner.
Mt. McSauba Ski Hill | Charlevoix
Mt. McSauba is basically Charlevoix’s winter playground. You’ve got lighted downhill skiing, a terrain park for snowboarders, and an ice rink, plus a warming cabin when you need a quick thaw.
Snowshoers can wander 80 acres of ungroomed trails, and if cross-country skiing is more your speed, there are free, lighted groomed trails (about 1.25 miles).
Bonus: On Friday nights in winter, Mt. McSauba hosts candlelight hikes where you can snowshoe (or hike/ski) by candle-lit trails and warm up by the fire with hot cocoa.
Outstanding West Michigan Trails for Snowshoeing
From Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids, West Michigan offers several areas that are prime for snowshoe lovers.
Blandford Nature Center | Grand Rapids
With 264 acres of woods and trails to explore, Blandford is a go-to winter spot when you want an easy nature escape close to town.
The visitor center opened in 1968, and today, you can use the trail maps (including a mobile-friendly virtual map) to roam with confidence. Snowshoe rentals are available, too (snow depth permitting).
In February, keep an eye out for Snowshoe with Your Sweetie, a cozy, lantern-lit, self-guided evening hike with a warm-up-by-the-fire vibe ages 21+.
Hemlock Crossing | West Olive
Located in West Olive only a 15-minute drive from Holland, Michigan, Hemlock Crossing offers more than 235 acres of woods and wetlands along the Pigeon River.
With over 6 miles of trails weaving through forest and riverside scenery, it’s an easy place to spend a winter afternoon exploring. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Nature Center.
Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park | Muskegon
Located 50 minutes from Grand Rapids in North Muskegon, the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park has a snowshoe trail system that’s marked for visitors.
It takes you from the forest filled with white pine trees to the top of the sand dunes at Lake Michigan. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views during the hike through this lovely area.
Best Snowshoeing Trails in Mid-Michigan
The Mid-Michigan area also sports an array of beautiful locations for snowshoeing, including locations in the Mount Pleasant and Lansing areas.
Mid-Michigan College Trails | Harrison
Mid-Michigan College’s Harrison Campus has a trail system with three, 1-mile walking/running loops that connect to form a 3-mile loop, plus a 19-mile bike trail that’s open to both cyclists and pedestrians.
In winter, these trails are also a fun place to snowshoe (conditions permitting), giving you an easy way to get outside without needing a long drive.
Woldumar Nature Center | Lansing
Woldumar is a peaceful place to snowshoe right along the Grand River, with 1.25 miles of shoreline and over 5 miles of trails winding through woodlands, prairie, and pine forest across about 180 acres.
The trails are open dawn to dusk. Although they aren’t groomed in winter, they are open for snowshoeing and skiing.
Lake Lansing Park North | Haslett
Just east of Lansing in Haslett, Lake Lansing Park North is a roomy winter spot with over 530 acres and about 10 miles of trails, so it’s easy to stretch your legs on snowshoes when fresh snow hits. Just keep in mind that winter access can shift with conditions.
If you need gear, snowshoe rentals are limited and typically weekend-only. They’re offered on a first-come, first-served basis when the weather allows.
Top Places for Snowshoeing in East Michigan
From Saginaw to Flint, East Michigan offers an array of choices for snowshoeing fun.
Port Crescent State Park | Port Austin
Perched near the tip of Michigan’s Thumb, Port Crescent State Park pairs 3 miles of sandy Lake Huron shoreline with winter trail time when snow shows up.
It’s a great place in Port Austin to mix snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with beachy Lake Huron views and a stroll along the Pinnebog River.
If you want to turn it into an overnight stay, the park’s modern campground includes some fun options beyond a tent, including geodesic domes, camper cabins, and cottages.
Holly State Recreation Area | Holly
If you want a snowshoe spot in Southeast Michigan that still feels like a real escape, Holly State Recreation Area is a great option.
The park is open year-round and lists both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as winter activities, so it’s an easy place to get outside when the snow hits.
In warmer months, it’s a classic lake-and-trails kind of park (hello, beach days), which makes it a solid “come back in every season” pick, too.
Highland Recreation Area | White Lake
If you’re looking for a true snowshoe option in the White Lake area, Highland Recreation Area is a strong pick. The park has a huge trail network of more than 40 miles through rolling hills, lakes, and varied forest.
Great Southcentral Michigan Areas for Snowshoeing
From Battle Creek to Adrian, there are many areas in Southcentral Michigan that offer snowshoers beautiful trails to explore while taking in the scenery.
Falling Waters Trail | Jackson County
The 10.5-mile Falling Waters Trail is a paved bike-and-walk path connecting Jackson and Concord. In winter, it’s also open to skiing and snowshoeing, and only half the trail is plowed so there’s still room for snow travel.
If you’re going after a fresh snowfall, that half-plowed setup can be a nice bonus for snowshoers.
Waterloo Recreation Area | Chelsea
If you want a snowshoe day with a little “up and down” to keep it interesting, Waterloo Recreation Area is a great pick near Chelsea, with winter options for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Also, you can connect into the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, a well-known point-to-point route that stretches about 33.9 miles between Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation Areas, so you can go as short or as ambitious as you want.
Note: The Eddy Discovery Center at Waterloo Recreation Area is closed for renovations through April 18, 2026, so plan on using the area’s trail access and parking.
Rolling Hills County Park | Ypsilanti
In summer, Rolling Hills near Ann Arbor is the kind of place families plan a whole day around. Think water-park energy with waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
When snow moves in, it shifts gears into a quieter winter hangout with over 3 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And, if you’re up for an after-dark outing in Ypsilanti, the park is also known for having a torch-lit trail for night skiing.
Best Snowshoeing in Michigan Around Metro Detroit
From Birmingham and Farmington Hills to Lake Orion and Bellevue, the Metro Detroit area offers a variety of parks and resorts with beautiful trails for snowshoers.
Detroit Exploration and Nature Center | Detroit
The Detroit Exploration and Nature Center, also known as The DEN, is a fun place to snowshoe in the city, especially when their winter programming is running. Rentals may be available during events and when snow conditions cooperate.
Belle Isle Park | Detroit
Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre island park in the Detroit River, with skyline-and-water views that make a winter walk feel surprisingly scenic for being right in the city.
Snowshoers can roam the island’s roads and paths, and it’s also a known spot for cross-country skiing when there’s enough snow on the ground.
When you’re ready to warm up indoors, you can duck into the Belle Isle Aquarium or the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and make a whole day of it.
Brighton State Recreation Area | Brighton
Brighton Recreation Area is a huge winter playground, covering nearly 4,950 acres with nine lakes and a 35-mile trail system, so it’s easy to build a snowshoe outing that fits your mood – from a quick loop to a longer wander.
The landscape is a big part of the appeal here with irregular hills, oak forest, and pockets of grassy fens and shrub marshes, which makes the scenery feel varied even on shorter outings.
If you want to turn it into an overnight, the park has multiple campgrounds, plus a few unique stays, including a rustic yurt and a frontier rustic cabin.
More Winter Things to Do in Michigan
Are you looking for more things to do in Michigan in winter? The state is filled with awesome winter festivals and places to go skiing and snowboarding and even snow tubing.
