Winter sports in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Winter sports in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

While many visitors flock to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore during the summer months to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and other warm-weather activities, the park offers plenty of options for winter sports enthusiasts as well. From cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, here are some things to do in Pictured Rocks during the winter season.

Cross-Country Skiing

Pictured Rocks is home to over 100 miles of cross-country ski trails, offering something for skiers of all levels. Trails wind through the park’s stunning winter landscape, passing by frozen waterfalls, through towering forests, and along the Lake Superior shoreline. The trails are groomed regularly, providing a smooth surface for skiers to glide over. Visitors can bring their own equipment or rent skis and poles from local outfitters.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a popular winter activity in Pictured Rocks, and for good reason. The park’s snowshoe trails allow visitors to explore areas that may be difficult to access on foot, such as steep hillsides and dense forests. Snowshoeing also offers a great workout, burning up to 1,000 calories per hour. The park offers guided snowshoe hikes led by park rangers, as well as equipment rentals for visitors who want to explore on their own.

Ice Climbing

For thrill-seekers, Pictured Rocks offers the opportunity to go ice climbing. The park’s frozen waterfalls provide a challenging and unique climbing experience. Visitors can hire a guide or join a group to learn the basics of ice climbing and safely explore the park’s ice formations.

Fat Biking

Fat biking is a newer winter sport that has gained popularity in recent years. These bikes are specially designed with wider tires to provide more surface area for riding on snow and ice. Pictured Rocks offers several trails that are open to fat biking, including the Grand Island Loop Trail and the North Country Trail. Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent them from local outfitters.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is another popular winter activity in Pictured Rocks. The park has several designated snowmobile trails, including the Munising to Grand Marais Trail and the Indian River Trail. Visitors can bring their own snowmobiles or rent them from local outfitters.

Ice Fishing

For those who prefer a more relaxed winter activity, ice fishing is a popular option in Pictured Rocks. The park’s lakes and streams offer plenty of opportunities for ice fishing, with species such as lake trout, whitefish, and walleye available. Visitors must bring their own equipment and obtain the necessary permits from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

In conclusion, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers plenty of winter sports activities for visitors to enjoy. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, fat biking, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are all popular options in the park. Visitors can bring their own equipment or rent gear from local outfitters. With its stunning winter landscape and variety of activities, Pictured Rocks is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts.