Aaron Peterson, a contributing photographer for Michigan Travel Ideas, is always up for a challenge, especially if it involves the outdoors and equipment. Aaron shares one of his favorite ski hang outs, Marquette Mountain.

One of the things I love about living near Marquette is immediate access to outdoor opportunities. Marquette Mountain ski area sits within city limits, less than 10 minutes from downtown shopping such as the Masonic Square Mall on Washington Street. In fact, you can see the white ribbons of runs from there!

Marquette Mountain is on one of a string of rugged hills rimming the city and leading north into the Huron Mountain range. Its location near the shore of Lake Superior, and 600 feet of vertical rise, means that dense clouds of lake-effect snow dump around 200 inches of white stuff annually. Yep, that means we average 130 days of skiing, from Thanksgiving through April!

You’ll need more than one day to tackle the mountain, which offers something for everyone, with 25 runs and three terrain parks. Marquette Mountain is home to some talented freestyle skiers and snowboarders who take full advantage of the parks. It’s always a thrill to check out the new tricks being thrown down on Contour’s jumps and rails. Looking for something more intense? Try Chute with 35-  to 50-foot decks. Ridge caters to beginners.

When the snow is especially good and I’m feeling brave, I head for the backcountry and ski Renegade and Weasels Gulch. At the end of those runs, you cross a bridge over the fast-moving Carp River to catch chair three to the top.

Hint: You’ll want to get to the hill early to get good parking near the chalet. The lot fills up quickly, and parking in the overflow area means having to cross highway M-553 with an armload of equipment. The chalet is fairly small, so I dress for the hill ahead of time to avoid the crowds inside.

Aaron Peterson is a travel photographer based near Lake Superior on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. His work has appeared in several publications, including Michigan Travel Ideas, Outside, National Geographic Adventure and Outdoor Life.

If you’re looking for a fun way to get out and enjoy Michigan’s glistening landscape this winter, dog sledding is your answer. With 11,000 frozen inland lakes and a number of brilliant, snow-covered national forests, there are plenty of options for experiencing the rush of dog sledding throughout the state. Here are some places to check out.

Nature’s Kennel Iditaord Sled Dog Racing & Adventures in McMillan offers a variety of “drive-you-own-dog team” adventures ranging from overnight trips to full day and half day trips. No experience is necessary, as guests have the option to drive their own team or take a ride in the sled.

At the Last Chance Kellen at Russ-Stick Acres you’ll feel like you’re experiencing an amazing Alaskan experience without ever leaving the state. Guests to this rustic farm in Mancelona will explore the history of dog sledding, while gaining “hands on” experience. 

If you’re near Cadillac, there are several places to check out the fun. Shemhadar Kennels offers hourly rides for the whole family through northern Michigan’s scenic trails. If you head a bit north, check out S & L Arctic K9’s Sled Dog Adventures, where customized training and tours are available.

The Double JJ Resort in Rothbury is a family favorite destination during all four seasons. During winter months, families can take part in various outdoor activities – including dog-sled rides.

At the Otter River Sled Dog Training Center & Wilderness Adventures in Tapiola, dog sled experiences include a three mile ride, a half day adventure, overnight camping, and an opportunity to drive your own team.

Partnering with the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and Caberfae Peaks Ski & Golf Resort this winter, Wiggi’s Mountain-Side Huskies offers one of the best dog sled rides in town. Be sure to make an appointment for Saturday or Sunday if you’re in the area!

For more information on dog sledding throughout the state, please visit www.michigan.org.

Bob Fisher is a lifelong avid Michigan sportsman. In addition to his love of the outdoors, Bob Fisher was also co-founder and co-owner of Baldwin Bait and Tackle, located in Baldwin. He answered a few of our questions about ice fishing. You can also check out this ice fishing article on michigan.org for more.

Q: Besides the ice, how is ice fishing different from regular fishing?

A: Ice fishing offers many different positive aspects compared to “regular” or conventional open water fishing. First, everyone has access to an entire lake. With open water fishing, one needs access to a boat to access the entire lake. Once ice forms a hard surface, anyone can simply walk to any part of the lake they desire to fish. Large lakes will require an ATV or snowmobile to access far reaches, if the ice thickness is safe enough to accommodate the weight of the machines.

Ice fishing is typically inexpensive compared to other styles of fishing. While fly fishing or big lake trolling can be more expensive endeavors, with ice fishing all one needs is some basic gear that can be purchased for less than $30 all together and a bucket to sit upon.

Q: Are there different types of fish you can catch in Michigan when you are ice fishing vs. regular fishing?

A. There are numerous fish species that ice fishermen target. The list varies from large northern pike and lake trout to the tiny smelt. Typically, ice fishermen target fish for table fare. The most common fish that ice fishermen seek are pan fish such as bluegill, perch and crappie. Northern pike are often sought using tip-up’s and jigging for walleye is very common and popular. One should check the fishing regulations since several species of fish have closed seasons during certain times of the year.

Q: Is there any special equipment you need?

A: For starting out with basic ice fishing, one would need a small rod and reel, designed specifically for ice fishing. These can be very economical setups that can be purchased for less than $10 and they typically come with the fishing line already spooled on. One will also need either an ice auger to drill a hole through the ice or an ice spud to chip open an existing hole, an ice skimmer to remove ice that forms once the hole is open, some bait, some small jig “lures” and a five gallon bucket to carry your gear in and to sit upon while fishing. Warm clothing and boots are also typically needed.

If on the more serious side, some ice fishermen design elaborate ice shantys, complete with heaters, furniture, stoves to cook fish on, and even TV’s.

Q: Where are some good areas to ice fish in Michigan?

A: The beauty of ice fishing is that nearly every lake that offers good fishing in the Summer months can offer good fishing during the Winter months. A notable event is Tip Up Town USA, among the top 10 winter events in the nation, which is a large ice fishing carnival attracting 10,000′s of people to the Houghton Lake area every winter.

Q: Where can people get more information about ice fishing?

A: Local fishing stores usually offer the best local advice. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has very good information on ice fishing and also has weekly fishing reports. The Department of Natural Resources also offers a free fishing weekend, where no fishing license is required, so anyone can try their hand at ice fishing without buying a license.

Please note-while ice fishing is a fun Winter activity, one must always use caution and common sense whenever venturing out on any ice.

February’s page of the 2012 Pure Michigan calendar features a photo of an ice climber scaling a frozen waterfall in Munising, one of the state’s most popular destinations for the activity. Garrett Peabody, owner of Peabody Ice Climbing Club in Fenton, shares some insights into this exciting sport and why Michigan is such a popular destination for it.

Q: How does somebody get started with ice climbing?

A: Ice climbing is a lot like rock climbing with respect to movement and belay systems. Understanding those concepts helps when getting started, though they can be learned quickly. Climbing outdoors or in a climbing gym is a great place to practice those skills in a controlled environment. That said, ice climbing requires additional considerations because of conditions and needed equipment.

Q: What equipment do you need?

A: Clothing suitable for cold temperatures with a water resistant shell is best. Harness, boots, ice axes, crampons, helmet and gloves. Eye protection helps too. The equipment is technical, and it helps to have a knowledgeable person go through its features and functions prior to using.

Q: Do you need any special skills?

A: A sense of awareness helps. Ice climbing involves inherent risk. The risk can be addressed by being aware of the situation and learning from others with experience.

Q: Where can you ice climb around Michigan?

A: Most of the climbing in Michigan is focused along the shore of Lake Superior in Munising. There are literally miles of sandstone cliff lined with hundreds of frozen waterfalls ranging from 20 to 210 ft tall.

Q: Do people travel to Michigan to ice climb?

A: Absolutely. Many come from surrounding states as we are home to one of the best ice climbing regions in the country.

Q: Do you have any tips for ice climbers – regardless of experience?

A: Communication is key. Climbing is an individual and team pursuit combined. Being aware of your and your partner’s combination of ability and experience is inherent to safety and success.

Q: How can people learn more about ice climbing?

A: The Michigan Ice Fest in Munising in early February is the best way to see and experience the sport firsthand in its true element. It is hosted by Downwind Sports out of Marquette. Interested individuals can demo equipment, participate in a clinic with a professional climber, view slide shows of their trips, do some climbing and see the scenery. There is a lot of info online. Alternatively, interested parties can contact us if they have questions.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about the Peabody Ice Climbing Club?

A: Peabody Ice Climbing Club is an ice climbing venue. Two towers, 45 and 72 ft tall, are iced over in the winter to offer a place for experienced ice climbers to train. Trying out ice climbing on these towers also provides a great introduction to people interested in the sport. The club is located on an old apple orchard south of Fenton. We provide gear and instruction. See our Facebook page for conditions and  general information. Call us at (810)433-3304 or e-mail us at peabodyiceclimbing@gmail.com with questions.

With winter just beginning it’s time to think about tackling the winter wonderland. Since Michigan has more ski areas than any other state, what better way to enjoy this winter than by gliding down one of Michigan’s 40+ downhill skiing resorts? Here are just some of the resorts that you will find as you explore the Pure Michigan snowscape.

Shanty Creek has earned the respect of downhill skiers, snowboarders and a “Best Downhill Terrain In The Midwest” award. Don’t miss your chance for Michigan skiing with Shanty Creek!

Located in the Upper Peninsula, Mount Bohemia has the longest runs with the highest vertical and deepest powder in the Midwest. This hidden secret is a true treasure for skiers.

Caberfae Peaks in Cadillac boasts Michigan’s highest lift-served peaks and some of the state’s biggest downhill skiing slopes.  Skiers and will enjoy the best advanced, intermediate and novice skiing in Michigan.

Crystal Mountain in the city of Thompsonville provides the best in northern Michigan skiing and snowboarding. Crystal Mountain is known for offering some of the best excitement a northern Michigan skiing resort can provide.

Swiss Valley entices folks with 11 downhill skiing runs, a 225 vertical foot peak (highest in Southwest Michigan) and seven lifts, including two quads and one triple.

Discover a place that’s luxurious yet relaxed, nearby yet far away at the Homestead Resort .  Homestead features snowsports without crowds and magical moments for families, sparkling fires, candlelit dinners as well as romantic interludes for couples.

Boasting more than two dozen runs, Mt.Brighton is the largest ski resort in Southeastern Michigan. After hitting the slopes warm up at the Hot Wax Café or grab a bite at Bauery Bar and Grill.

If you’re just starting out or have been anxious to learn how to ski or snowboard there’s a great program being offered by more than 20 resorts across the state throughout January designed to help beginners. Check out the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association site to learn more. We should also mention that 4^th graders ski for free! Fourth graders can obtain a “Cold is Cool” Ski & Ride Passport that gives them up to three free lift tickets or trail passes at 20 participating ski areas. Click here for details.

For your reference, here is a list of the northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula slopes that are open now for skiing:

Northern Michigan:

• Boyne Highlands
• Boyne Mountain
• Crystal Mountain
• Caberfae
• Nub’s Nob
• Snow Snake
• Treetops

Upper Peninsula:

• Big Powder Horn
• Indianhead
• Marquette Mountain
• Norway Mountain
• Ski Brule

Photo courtesy of Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association

Michigan may not be known for mountainous terrain, but it does offer some of the best cross-country skiing in the country – great for both fun and exercise.  More than 3,000 miles of trails stretch across the state, Mackinac Island included.  Come winter, the entire east side of the island is reserved solely for cross country fun, with ski rental and instruction available.

For those unwilling to brave the icy Straits, there’s plenty of prime skiing available on the northern Michigan mainland – from the Sand Dunes Ski Trail in St. Ignace, to the Peek-A-Boo Hill Ski Trail in Cedarville.  For a more adventurous trek, the 35 mile Petoskey to Mackinaw Trail stretches 35 miles through eight cities.

There’s plenty of fun to be had downstate as well:

Bald Mountain Recreation Area in Lake Orion is known for its eight miles of groomed cross country skiing trails, and is also a great destination for snowmobiling, sledding and ice fishing.

Bernard W. Baker Sanctuary in Bellevue was the first sanctuary of the Michigan Audubon Society.  Well-known as a refuge for Greater Sandhill Cranes, cross country skiing is welcomed along its trails in-season.

Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids is a 143 acre facility, giving visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of nature areas along its cross country trails.  It’s also possible to warm up indoors with special exhibits and Blandford’s popular wildlife care program.

For more information on cross country skiing in the Mackinac Island region, or throughout the state, visit www.michigan.org.

Photo courtesy of GoSnowmobiling.org

There are more than 6,200 maintained, interconnected snowmobile trails throughout the state of Michigan. The Upper Peninsula in particular offers more than 3,000 miles of trails that are annually rated as America’s best. Today, Bill Manson, the executive director of the Michigan Snowmobile Association answered a few of our questions about snowmobiling in our great state. Michigan.org also has plenty of information for you to check out.

Q: Why is snowmobiling in Michigan so popular?
A. Snowmobiling is popular in Michigan because we have three resources that are needed.

Snow, mother nature not only gives us plenty with consistent storms but every time the wind blows, lake effect snow appears!

Trails, With Michigan’s abundant state and federal land, thousands of miles of trails and two tracks are open to snowmobile use in the winter.

Snowmobile Clubs, over 135 snowmobile clubs make snowmobiling their number one fun family sport. Of those clubs, 69 have contracts with the state to provide the connections over private property to connect all of the state and federal lands together to make a fantastic trail system. These same clubs sign, brush, maintain, and groom all 6500 miles of Michigan’s snowmobile trails.

Photo courtesy of GoSnowmobiling.org

Q: What are some places to snowmobile around Michigan?
A: In lower Michigan, check out Cadillac, Houghton Lake, Grayling, Gaylord, Traverse City, Alpena, Cheboygan and Mackinaw City.

In the Upper Peninsula, some great places are in Sault Ste Marie, Paradise, Newberry, Seney, Munising, Marquette,  Houghton, Hancock, Lake Gogebic and Ironwood.

Q: What tips do you have for people that are new to snowmobiling?
A: Find a city that they may want to visit, find a rental place to rent snowmobiles and give it a try.

Q: What tips do you have for snowmobilers in general?
A:

• Do not drink and ride.
• Do not ride alone.
• Stay on the trails.
• Respect Private Property
• Dress appropriately

Q: Are there any snowmobiling groups in Michigan can people can join?
A: Visit the MSA web site for a complete list of snowmobile clubs and events to try out, for more information about snowmobiling, check out www.msasnow.org,  www.snowmobilers.org, and   www.snowmobile.org.

Ever been snowshoeing? On our blog today, Theresa Neal from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, answers some questions about this fun winter activity.

Q. A lot of people have heard of skiing and snowmobiling, but may not be familiar with snowshoeing. What is it?
A. Snowshoeing is a unique form of transportation that was developed thousands of years ago specifically for winter travel by foot. Native Americans were the innovators of snowshoe design, with varied styles depending on the snow conditions. Each snowshoe is designed with the basic idea of staying atop deep snow, sinking only 3-6 inches versus above the knee. Snowshoes allow for easier, quicker travel over snow-covered terrain and have developed into a popular winter activity.

Q. Where are some places where people like to snowshoe in Michigan?
A. Any place with 6 inches or more of snow is a good place to start snowshoeing! Michigan winters provide snowshoeing opportunities pretty much everywhere. Some state parks offer packed snowshoe trails, which are nice for beginners and small children. However, most people find blazing their own trail to be a fun and exciting way to explore places others have not been. Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula are filled with publicly-owned land that is perfect for exploration on snowshoes, particularly Wilderness State Park, Hartwick Pines State Park and the Porcupine Mountains.

Q. Are there different kinds of snowshoes?
A. Yes, there are hundreds of different snowshoes available out there. Modern snowshoes usually consist of an aluminum frame with a plastic decking. Traditional snowshoes are wood framed, with either rawhide, neoprene or nylon lacing. While modern snowshoes can be less expensive, the quality varies greatly and I often see visitors carrying their snowshoes back from a hike due to a broken binding or torn plastic decking. Traditional snowshoes require some maintenance, and can be slightly heavier and more expensive than the modern versions, but they are adjustable and problems can often be repaired.

Most snowshoes have rounded toes, with the exception of the Ojibwa style, which has a pointed toe. Pointed toes were designed to “plow” through very deep, light fluffy snow and to break through ice-crusted snow. Snowshoe tails are designed to drag through the snow, and are either rounded or pointed. Rounded tails result in a smaller snowshoe, but tend to offer more resistance and kick up snow toward your back as you walk. Pointed tails result in a longer snowshoe, but offer less resistance as you walk and basically glide through the snow.

Q. Can you give some information on the Make Your Own Snowshoe Workshop on December 17?
A. Participants in the one-day workshop will make their own pair of traditional wooden framed snowshoes by weaving a nylon lacing material to create the decking. The workshop is limited to 15 participants, so there is plenty of one-on-one instruction to coincide with a step-by-step guide book to learn the proper snowshoe lacing technique. It takes about 3-4 hours to complete one snowshoe, and participants are welcome to bring a friend to help speed along the lacing process. The kit includes two wooden frames, lacing material and bindings for $170. The workshop takes place at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Restaurant at the Upper Falls, which provides a great atmosphere with awesome food and drinks to assist the weaving process.

Q. Can you snowshoe at Tahquamenon Falls State Park?
A. Yes! Snowshoeing has become a popular recreational activity at Tahquamenon Falls. We have a 3.8 mile groomed cross country ski trail, which snowshoers often utilize (to the side of the groomed tracks), as well as two packed snowshoe trails at the Upper Falls. The best snowshoeing at Tahquamenon is to blaze your own trail through the forest, or over the extensive peatland complex that is too wet during the summer to explore. Many visitors park at the Lower Fall sand snowshoe the marked trails, or take off to the north on their own adventure. There are heated restroom facilities at the UpperFalls, and outhouses at the Lower Falls.

Q. Are there other winter activities in the Park that you would like to mention?
A. Every Saturday in February, we offer free snowshoe rental from 12-8 p.m., a guided snowshoe hike at 2 p.m., followed by a one mile lantern-lit ski/snowshoe trail from 6-8 p.m. The 3.8 mile Giant Pines Loop will be groomed, with a set track, as soon as we get enough snow. Please call (906) 492-3415 or check out www.michigan.gov/dnrvisitorcenters for more information.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Pure Michigan Connect Readers! Spring is almost here, and the temperatures are starting to increase! In honor of spring, this week’s picture comes to you from the Pure Michigan Flickr page. Have you seen the first Robin of the year yet?

Congratulations to Ed Stielstra on finishing the Iditarod dog sledding race! His team came in 27^th, and is one of the few Iditarod dog sledding competitors who does not live and train part of the year in Alaska, in addition to being the only team from Michigan. Nice job Ed!

What was once Michigan’s first state prison has been turned into a residential community. The Armory Arts Village in Jackson is a residential community that was originally set up to provide living, working, and presentation space for artists. The space gained national attention when it was ranked in the top ten most unique apartment buildings in the nation by MSN.

To some, March is all about NCAA March Madness, and the NCAA bracket. Well that’s not the only bracket worth mentioning this year. We’ve seen brackets for Beards, Saved by the Bell, Cats vs. Dogs, and even the Best Dad. But our favorite bracket this year is the Michigan Beer bracket, featuring the Michigan microbreweries from around the state. Go vote for your favorite!

Lastly, we couldn’t let you go without sharing some of the best St. Patrick’s Day food and drink options! Mlive has put together a list of delicious Irish recipes, including green eggs & ham, as well as 38 great Michigan microbrews offered throughout the state. Who knows, they may help you fill out your brew bracket!

The group taking in views at Trout Bay

If you’ve driven through Munising, you’ve likely looked over toward Grand Island, across Munising Bay. As you leave town to the west, you can see much of the southern shore of Grand Island, off to Muskrat Point and Murray’s Bay. In the clear summer waters of Murray’s Bay you can sit atop The Bermuda; an ominous shipwreck, just feet below the surface.

It’s winter now. The ice over the West Channel has formed a solid path from the Grand Island Landing. For the adventurous who make the journey, Grand Island will deliver an unforgettable winter experience.

On February 10th, 2011, Pure Michigan travel writers were given a firsthand tour on snowmobiles of this 13,000 acre playground. With snowmobiles from Munising Snowmobile Rentals for Steve and Dave, and our own personal sleds for Kevin and me, we left the mainland at 9a.m. sharp and made our way to Trout Bay.

The Grand Island National Recreation Area is part of the Hiawatha National Forest and offers outdoor adventure for every interest.

After watching the sun climb higher into the cold morning sky, we saddled our machines and headed up the west rim of Trout Bay. The morning view over Trout Bay is simply stunning.

From the Trout Bay Overlook, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is viewable in the distance.

Panoramic of Trout Bay

Farther north, we see signs of the extreme weather that hits Grand Island. Windswept cliffs see very little snow accumulation due to drifting. Drifts, often 5 to 10 feet tall, are common on the north and west rims of Grand Island. For the second time in as many days, travel writer Steve was heading straight into true Upper Peninsula snowmobiling.

The road on Grand Island is accessible in winter by snowmobile, but is marked as private property. The Lighthouse is a privately owned parcel on Grand Island. While many on the island make their way to the North Light, it is simply a matter of time before too many visitors will lead to a gate or additional security to protect the property.

The North Shore presents a rugged opportunity for ice climbers, who descend upon Munising the first weekend in February for the Michigan Ice Festival. The most adventurous climbers make their way to the island if the conditions for crossing are favorable.  2011 was a banner year for ice climbing on Grand Island.

Ice Curtains on Grand Island’s North Shore

From the North Shore, we made our way south along the West Rim Trail. This trail presents the greatest challenge for snowmobiles, with the largest snow drifts on an island trail. (Larger drifts can be found in Trout Bay). We all enjoyed the thrill of riding over huge drifts and along the cliff line!

We completed our counter-clockwise trip around Grand Island, arriving back at the Island Landing. Sleds turned off, we sat and marveled at the pure enjoyment, and the perfect day we were given for the trip.

Grand Island is an un-groomed, un-monitored recreation area. Ice conditions can change overnight, affected by water currents below the ice and obvious temperature changes. If you or someone you know is considering the trip across to the island, be sure to check with local authorities or ask us about the conditions on the Upper Peninsula Overland discussion forums.

Tom Dolaskie IV is the Co-Founder of Upper Peninsula Overland. Tom is a business owner and lives in Munising. He serves on the Munising City Commission and Board of Directors for the Alger County Chamber of Commerce.

Upoverland
Twitter
Facebook