While Michigan rightfully gets its share of outdoor attention, travelers looking for adventurous outings shouldn’t look past the top of The Mitten. There, in the northwest corner of Lower Michigan, the Petoskey Area quietly harbors a surprising amount of outdoor activities linked by a handful of lively gateway communities: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Boyne Falls, Alanson, Bay Harbor, and Bay View.
This 30-mile lakeside corridor along U.S. 131 near Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay features dynamic terrain, deep woods, and freshwater byways in every inland direction. While each season has its perks, the winter in particular offers striking and surreal opportunities to experience the area and explore beyond the shore. Plan to make the most of winter by launching the Petoskey Area’s best adventures.
Alpine Skiing & Riding
Drop hundreds of feet that’s dressed in deep, natural snowpack and buried by hundreds of snow guns at a trifecta of the Midwest’s best ski resorts: Boyne Mountain adds energy and edge plus high-speed chairlifts; Nub’s Nob is known for its snow-making savants and uncrowded slopes; then The Highlands provides a laid back family vibe, plus the greatest vertical in Lower Michigan, 552 feet over 55 well-varied ski trails.
Freestyle Terrain Parks
Send it in Boyne Mountain’s seven terrain parks or 30 features that riders rave about for size, variety, and expert construction. Beginners can enjoy the Burton Riglet Park or nearby terrain at Nub’s Nob, with one main terrain park and a bunny hill park; or three terrain parks over at The Highlands.
Off-mountain Resort Adventures
Not interested in carving turns? Both The Highlands and Boyne Mountain can help you mix up ski days with zip lining, swimming, and horseback riding in the snow.
Authentic Après
Enhance your après experience with a winery tour at Boyne Valley Vineyards and Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery & Rudbeckia Winery—just two of 16 local vineyards in the picturesque Petoskey Wine Region.
Snowshoeing
Wildwood’s rolling terrain of deep hardwood and pine forest is also ideal for snowshoeing; as is the seven snowy miles of trail through Tanton Preserve that lead to expansive views from the 1,300-foot hilltop—among the highest points in Lower Michigan. Or, consider a more unique trail experience like the options at Crooked Vine Winery or Pond Hill Farm.
SkyBridge Michigan
Chairlift up to gain perspective on what’s proclaimed “the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge.” Boyne Mountain’s 1,200-foot-long trail through the air delivers views of Boyne Valley, plus serious thrills thanks to its 118 feet of exposure off the ground. Take a nighttime stroll to enjoy the 200,000 twinkling lights that adorn the bridge in the the winter season
XC Skiing
The hilliest realm in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula makes ideal terrain for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Highlands grooms ten miles of cross-country ski trails for skate and classic; plus 11 miles of devoted (classic-only) groomers at local-favorite Wildwood.
Snowmobiling
Obsessive trail grooming and pristine old-growth forest make the Jordan Valley Snowmobile Trail a heart-of-winter ride. For a fuller day, head north to the 100-mile Moose Jaw Trail System, a network of curving trails that covers a deeply forested realm adjacent to the Straits of Mackinac, where Great Lakes Michigan and Huron meet. No sled? No problem. Check out local rentals from Boyne Recreation and Indian River Sports Center.
Rafting
Yes, rafting in winter. Enjoy surreal river travel through snowy woods by dressing warm to tackle moderate Class II rapids of the Sturgeon River in a guide-led raft, or more winter rafting on the Jordan River. Guide services are offered from Sturgeon River Paddlesports and Jordan Valley Outfitters.
Winter Biking
Discover a robust fat-tire snow scene between groomed trails at the ski resorts, Boyne School Forest, Avalanche Mountain Preserve, and ten preserves owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy.
For travelers who want experiences that are equal parts indulgence and fulfilling, the Petoskey Area is an easy getaway that rejuvenates your soul with a unique blend of natural beauty and eclectic communities, including Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Bay Harbor, Alanson, Boyne Falls, and Bay View. To learn more about the Petoskey Area, find area event information, or to start planning your trip, visit PetoskeyArea.com.
The post 10 Ways to Winter Well in Michigan’s Unassuming Adventure Hub appeared first on Outside Online.
