Each year, Munising hosts the Michigan Ice Fest, a celebration of climbing that brings unique outdoor adventure opportunities to everyone from beginners to professional-level athletes. The 2025 Michigan Ice Fest is over, but Munising still has plenty for you to explore and enjoy this winter!
While snow melts downstate in early March, the 330 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and the 230+ inches of white stuff that falls in an average Munising Winter will keep you on the move on your sled, on your skis along the Valley Spur Trail System in Hiawatha National Forest or in your boots at multiple popular hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Before you start planning your 2026 Ice Fest trip, here are some ways you can extend winter in the Snowmobiling Capital of the Midwest, where snow, ice caves, and ice structures formed in majestic waterfalls can last into April:
Snowmobiling:
Late February storm systems have let members of the Snowmobile & O.R.V. Association of Alger County continue to build the perfect snowmobiling conditions and terrain across the vast network of paths that allow people to travel through magical woods, between towns and amazing countryside and Lake Superior views.
There’s nothing better than a leisurely ride that lets people take in the natural beauty of the area or ramping up the speed for a little burst of adrenaline on the trail. The well-marked trail system is easy to follow for first-time visitors while also giving repeat guests new room to roam.
Waterfalls:
Winter waterfalls are every bit as amazing as other seasons, providing a unique frozen backdrop for photos. There are 17 waterfalls in and around Munising and the outing can be tailored to the user’s activity level as all require a hike to reach the destinations.
Three recommendations include:
Munising Falls: In the city of Munising, this 50-foot waterfall is only ¼ mile into the woods and is accessed via a paved trail and a viewing platform. Interesting rock formations are highlighted in the winter.
Wagner Falls: A short walk on a gravel path takes you to a peaceful spot where you can take in the 20-foot drop of the Wagner Falls, which is fed by Wagner Creek. This is one of the most photographed falls as it features stepped areas with multiple rock ledges.
Most challenging hikes:
Chapel Falls: One of the larger straight drops, the 60-foot falls are at the end of the Chapel Road Drive and about a 2 1/2-mile hike to Lake Superior, where the famous tree and rock formation is found.
Visitors are blown away by the stillness of the serene settings.
When the snow finally does melt, the waterfalls become the epicenter of excitement as water powers its way from elevation to the ground or to the water beneath cliffs.
Ice Caves:
The recent cold snap has helped form this year’s version of the popular Eben Ice Caves, which are found 15 miles west of Munising in the Hiawatha National Forest. Porous sandstone walls leak water through the rock and the liquid freezes to build the large icicle-like structures. The ice caves have built a reputation as one of the most stunning winter visuals in the U.S.
Large ice caves also form along Munising’s Grand Island National Recreation Area and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which is the centerpiece of the annual Michigan Ice Fest, which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year after a one-year layoff.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing:
Piles of snow blankets Michigan’s Upper Peninsula every year, providing countless outdoor opportunities in a wintry wonderland. Although Munising is considered “the snowmobile capital of the Midwest,” the area also offers pristine cross-country ski and snowshoe trails that people of all skill levels can enjoy.
Enjoy a day of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at our many groomed trails!
Ice Climbing:
Even if you missed the Michigan Ice Fest, it’s not too late to try out ice climbing! Whether you’re a climbing newbie or a total pro, Munising has fun and challenging ice formations for you.
Ice climbing is becoming one of the newest and most popular sports here in the Munising area. Our multitude of great waterfalls and porous sandstone cliffs in which the water seeps through make this sport possible.
Towards the end of December, the ice has formed along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Grand Island, and our various waterfalls. Miner’s Falls is a 40′ high column of ice. You will need to plan according and snow shoe or ski into the location (3 miles).
Looking to try ice climbing for the first time or hone your skills to reach new heights? Down Wind Sports offers guided ice climbing classes for climbers of all skill levels.
