Winter Hiking in Tahquamenon Country: Frozen Waterfalls and Uncrowded Trails
Discover the snowy serenity of winter hiking in Tahquamenon Country, from short peaceful riverside paths to longer challenging trails.
Winter’s arrival in the Upper Peninsula doesn’t put outdoor adventures on pause. Far from it! When the snow falls, hiking enters a breathtaking new season you won’t want to miss! Explore pristine trails where the only sounds are the crunch of fresh snow underfoot and the whisper of the wind through snow-laden trees. In this uncrowded paradise, you will marvel at majestic frozen waterfalls and experience a profound connection with Michigan’s purest beauty.
Our snowiest months span December through February, but don’t be surprised to see new snow blanketing the trails into March or even April. While the cold is part of the adventure, it’s manageable with the right gear — and the rewards are unparalleled. The beauty of this season isn't just in the scenery; it's in the way it refreshes your spirit and energizes your soul. Bundle up and embrace the freedom of winter!
Be mindful that some roads are closed or transform into snowmobile trails during the winter. Snow drifts also can cover roads, making travel to your trail of choice more challenging or impossible.
An easy one-mile out, one-mile back hike that lets you see the frozen Upper Tahquamenon Falls without climbing the stairs to the overlook. Listen and watch for wintering birds along the way. Requires a Michigan Recreation Passport or visitor’s day pass for entry and parking at the state park.
This 4-mile trail (an 8-mile round trip) connects the Upper and Lower Falls of the Tahquamenon River, offering some of the most scenic views in the park. The trail runs along the river, winding through snow-covered old-growth forests of towering hemlocks and cedars. The steep hills and stairs give this a difficult rating, but the views of the frozen waterfalls make it a winter must-see. Since the state does not maintain this trail in the winter, seasoned hikers recommend wearing snowshoes or crampons as the snow and ice can make the terrain tricky.
This 5.2-mile loop is open to hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Enter pine forests with views of picturesque Clark Lake. This trail connects to the Wilderness Loop so you can enjoy the quiet and scenery longer. Be aware that bears and moose inhabit this area.
This 3.8-mile loop takes you through ancient hemlock groves and past two of Michigan’s tallest white pines that have been standing since the logging era in the 1800s. The snow-covered pines and occasional woodpecker sightings create a serene, quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect escape into nature’s winter beauty. Highlights include journeying along the Tahquamenon River, seeing the Tahquamenon Falls and stopping at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub for a craft beer, snack or meal. Check the brewery’s website for winter hours.
For advanced hikers, the 7-mile Wilderness Loop offers a backcountry, primitive hiking experience through some of the park’s most remote areas. You can hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski through old-growth hemlock forests, pine ridges and peatland. Highlights include seeing a frozen beaver pond and dam. This, too, is a habitat for bears and moose, so stay aware of your surroundings when on the trail. You can reach the Wilderness Loop from the North Country Trail, Clark Lake Loop and Giant Pines Loop.
This short, one-mile out-and-back trail starts near Rivermouth Campground and leads to the breathtaking spot where the Tahquamenon River flows into Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay — strikingly beautiful, especially when partially frozen. The trail will take you to where the lumber town Emerson once stood — all that remains is a few wooden pilings in the bay — but there’s a historical marker on M-123 south of Paradise that tells the town’s story.
Primarily a double-track cross-country ski trail in winter, you can hike this Newberry trail when it is not groomed for skiing. The trail winds for 8.9 miles through dense forest. It’s beautiful!
The North Country Trail (NCT), part of the National Scenic Trail System, winds through the heart of Tahquamenon Country. Explore miles of some of the most incredible scenery along Lake Superior, through dense forests to Tahquamenon Falls and south toward the Mackinac Bridge and beyond. This is one of our most immersive nature experiences with sparkling, snow-covered trees, frozen waterways, and tranquil landscapes and few other hikers or backpackers breaking the winter silence. However, the NCT can be challenging in winter, as some sections are not regularly maintained. Snow depth can vary greatly and icy stretches may slow your pace. Although the trail is well-marked, snow can sometimes obscure trail markers.
This moderately difficult, 2.3-mile out-and-back trail begins at the Two Hearted River State Forest Campground. It has a few steep, but short hills along Lake Superior. One of the thrills is crossing the river on a suspension bridge to this breathtaking, freshwater sea’s wintry shore.
This is among Tahquamenon Country’s shortest but most difficult-to-reach trails — but it is worth it! Luce County does not snowplow the last seven miles of County Road 412. Locals recommend trailering your snowmobile down County Road 500 to Little Lake Harbor. Unload your sled and ride to the secluded lighthouse. The last 2.2-mile section is not groomed and it can be a rough, thrill-ride! Once at this secluded lighthouse, hike the 0.5-mile trail along Lake Superior. It’s exhilaratingly beautiful.
Considered one of the best snowmobile rides in the Upper Penisula, take your sled to the Whitefish Point Lighthouse. Then stretch your legs on the 0.6-mile loop with its panoramic views of Lake Superior. The road is plowed, so you can also drive here. Wear boots, snowshoes or skis and dress warm — the winds off Lake Superior are bone-chilling but the scenery is amazing.
Proper clothing and gear are essential to enjoy your winter hike safely and comfortably:
With so many trails to explore plan to stay a day or two. Book your stay early at Tahquamenon Country’s lodgings to get the amenities and rates you want. After hiking, you will be more than ready for a good night’s sleep.
Before heading out, check trail conditions and weather forecasts — a good resource is the Tahquamenon Falls State Park weather page. Consider stopping in Newberry or Paradise to enjoy a meal and pick up snacks for your hike. Then go discover the snowy splendor of Tahquamenon Country!
