Skiing and Winter Activities on Mackinac Island, MI

Winter in Mackinac Island offers the best cross-country skiing one can find, as well as festivals and activities enough for the entire season. Wonderful shopping opportunities present themselves within the small island, which proves a charming place to visit, especially when blanketed in white. And the sites alone are unforgettable, such as the Great Victorian homes, Arch Rock, and Sugar Loaf.

Ski season thrives in Michigan, especially in Mackinac Island. In fact, the east half of the island in winter is designated entirely for cross-country skiing, awarding the island the best skiing in the country. Trails are specifically groomed to make the skiing and snowshoeing the best it can be.

What's great about cross-country, or Nordic skiing is that you can take it at your own pace and follow any trail you wish. It is much less expensive than down hill skiing and doesn't require a great deal of skill. Anyone can quickly learn to Nordic ski and be on the trail instantly, which makes this sport ideal for families. As with any sport, it is highly recommended to warm-up your muscles prior to taking off, and to do plenty of stretching afterwards to prevent soreness and injury.

Mackinac Island State Park, located in the center of the island is the perfect place to start looking for skiing trails. Volunteers from the Mackinac Island Ski Club and State Park personnel keep these renowned Nordic trails in tip-top shape, perfect for ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing.

Ski Supplies:

For those planning on a participating in the popular ski trails, it's always a good idea to bring your own skis. If you fly to the area, skis are not a problem to take along, so don't be discouraged in that respect.

Shopping for supplies is another option available to travelers. Skis and snowshoes are available for rent at many shops in the area. So get your gear and enjoy over 70 miles of excellent ski trails.

• Treat the family to a horse drawn sleigh ride for an exhilarating outdoor jaunt.
• Christmas Bazzar: December begins with the ultimate experience in holiday spirit on the first weekend of the month. There's excellent shopping opportunities, great food, auctions, raffles, and merriment as this fundraiser for the Island's houses of worship kicks off.
• Mackinaw Winterfest: Travel across the way to Mackinaw City's Annual Winterfest January 19-21, for ice skating, a winter Laser Light Show, sleigh and wagon rides, and an ice/snow carving contest, where artists show off their talents.

The inviting people, events, and the special glow of city in winter warms visitors and brings them back year after year.