Snowshoeing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
The brief warm-up we experienced less than 2 weeks ago is a distant memory. The Upper Peninsula has seen lake-effect snow almost every day from late last week through today. On the weather radar, there’s just a green blob hanging over the central U.P., which signifies, it’s snowing here. The forecast looks much of the same for the next several days and into the weekend.
With all the fresh snow, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of it and enjoy the woods. One way to have fun is snowshoeing in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The Park is great spot to enjoy the sport because of its natural beauty and beautiful sights. Here are a few recommended snowshoeing spots:
- Sand Point Snowshoe Trail – 1.5-mile loop close to the City of Munising. If you choose, the trail connects to the Lakeshore Trail that will take you to Miners Castle (3 miles, one way)
- Miners Falls: 5.6-mile round trip. Park at the “end of plowing” on Miners Castle Road.
- Miners Castle: 6.5-mile round trip. Park at the “end of plowing” on Miners Castle Road.
- Chapel Falls: 10-mile round trip. From H-58 via summer access road.
- Sable Falls/Dune Trails: 3-mile out-and-back trail. Start at the Grand Sable Visitors Center and follow the trail to see the spectacular dunes in the winter.
- Beaver Lake: 6-mile round trip. From the H-58 via summer access road.
Please remember to be safe out there and bring adequate gear, food, water and maps. It is also a good idea to travel with a group and tell someone where you’re going. It’s even better to have someone with you who knows the area and trails. Also, stay off frozen lakes and ponds as the ice can be very unpredictable.
Make sure to check out this helpful brochure on snowshoeing the Pictured Rocks Lakeshore as it includes a couple maps.
Happy snowshoeing!
