Tahquamenon Falls Winter: Ultimate Guide 2025
Looking for things to do in Tahquamenon Falls this winter? Here are 27 great suggestions, guaranteed to get you outside and enjoying Michigan this winter.
A Tahquamenon Falls Winter trip should be on your list for the winter of 2023.
With 13 inland lakes, 24 miles of river, and many different trails for every type of winter sport, this natural area is a wonderland.
The area gets consistent snow and doesn’t get bitterly cold. Keep reading for the ultimate guide to Tahquamenon Falls in winter.
Is Tahquamenon Falls open in winter?
While there’s a substantial decrease in visitors every winter, this state park is open year-round.
If you can visit Tahquamenon Falls in the winter, take it! It’s tranquil and gorgeous, perfect for anyone wanting an adventure during the cold months.
There’s plenty to do in the park and surrounding areas. Plus, the falls are almost more impressive when you see the gushing brown water contrasting against freshly fallen snow.
The color of the water comes from the cedar and hemlock swamps upriver. As the water flows through, the tannins from the plants leach into the water, giving it a distinctive look.
Note that you need a Michigan Recreation Passport for entry into the park. You can buy one at a self-service kiosk in the park or get an annual pass online here.
Is Tahquamenon Falls Worth Visiting in Winter?
Tahquamenon Falls in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is truly magical. Especially in the winter!
Enjoy the raw beauty of nature without the crowds and see the 200-foot crest of the Upper Falls. Yes, they typically have flowing water all winter long.
The Lower Falls is mostly frozen by January, so check out both to make your dreams of seeing a frozen waterfall come true.
You’ll need to hike about a mile to see it since the lower lot is closed during the winter.
The Upper Falls parking lot is always plowed, and the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub is open for a warm meal.
Plus, there are loads of fun things to do in the area during the winter months. Check out my master list below.
Things to do in Tahquamenon Falls in Winter
Don’t let the cold winter weather keep you cooped up indoors. There’s plenty of fun in Tahquamenon during the crisp and snowy days.
1. Snowshoeing
One of the best activities in Tahquamenon Falls is to head out on the trails and go snowshoeing! There are plenty of trails at the state park to meander around and explore.
Plus, every Saturday in February, the park has free guided snowshoe hikes through the park.
The snowshoes available are on a first-come, first-served basis, so I’d recommend bringing your own if you can.
There are even a few guided trails at night! You can walk through a lighted trail, enjoying the gorgeous area under the soft glow of lanterns with a starry sky above.
Warm up with a delicious meal at the Taquamenon Brew Pub and gift shop, and buy a souvenir sweatshirt to take home.
2. Fat Tire Biking
If this is the first time you’ve heard of fat tire biking, it’s a fun winter sport. Hop aboard a bicycle with fat tires perfect for taking on snow-covered terrain and hitting the trails.
There are plenty of trails in the upper peninsula of Michigan to explore.
At Tahquamenon Falls State Park, check out Emerson Trail for a quick 1-mile jaunt or North Country Trail for a more prolonged adventure.
Make sure to only go fat tire biking if it’s lower than 30 degrees and if there’s at least 6 inches of snow on the ground. Otherwise, the trail underneath can be damaged.
It’s a fantastic way to exercise and enjoy stunning winter views.
3. Cross-Country Skiing
There are over 3,000 trails for cross-country skiing that lead to waterfalls, ice caves, and scenic vistas.
There are plenty of groomed trails around the Upper Falls. They’re clearly marked with directional markers and difficulty levels, making it easy to find a trail perfect for you.
You can also go exploring off-trail in Tahquamenon State Park.
Wear enough layers so you don’t get cold, and don’t forget plenty of sunscreen. Nothing is more unpleasant than being sunburnt in the middle of winter.
Check out this map of the trails near the Tahquamenon Upper Falls.
4. Snowmobile
A Snowmobiler’s paradise, Tahquamenon country is the perfect place to explore the entire U.P.
The snowmobiling season begins December 1st. It’s a fantastic winter activity, allowing you to visit gorgeous areas. Some aren’t accessible for the rest of the year!
Visit Tahquamenon Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, White Fish Point, and many other destinations.
One of the most popular snowmobiling routes takes you to the Upper and Lower Falls in Tahquamenon State Park. Adventure along and see unique ice formations.
Make sure to always have a map with you and to plan your route in advance.
Check out the Michigan Snowmobile Trail Report for the most up-to-date information before hitting the trails.
5. Hiking
Many of the trails at Tahquamenon are great for snowshoeing— and if the snow isn’t too thick, you can head out for a good ol’ fashioned hike instead.
Walk along the path to the Upper Falls, or explore the quieter Lower Falls area for a tranquil winter experience.
For a longer trek, head out on the Wilderness Loop (7.4 miles) or the River Trail (4.0 miles). You’ll see old hemlock forests, beaver ponds, white pine trees, and woodpeckers.
Even if you decide not to wear snowshoes, it’s a good idea to wear traction devices on ice and snow.
Wear plenty of layers and sunscreen. Bring water with you.
6. Ice Climbing
Starting in January, Tahquamenon Falls is usually frozen enough to be safe for ice climbing. It’s not often that you get the chance to climb a waterfall!
Ice climbing is similar to rock climbing, but you need slightly different equipment. Obviously, the weather is cold, so you’ll want to be dressed appropriately.
You’ll also need specialty shoes called crampons. These ice climbing shoes have sharp spikes, perfect for adhering to ice.
Ice climbers also use climbing axes and harnesses.
If you’ve never ice climbed before, I’d recommend checking out a class to learn how to climb safely.
7. Photography
Winter photography is a fantastic way to get out and enjoy nature.
Spend time finding the perfect shot noticing the details in the Tahquamenon area.
This is the perfect activity to add to a snowshoeing excursion, hike, or winter drive. Enjoy the winter tranquility as you create art!
It’s a good idea to plan your shoot in the early hours of the day or around sunset. The soft natural light will help create a gorgeous shot.
It’s also a good idea to avoid changing lenses and to carry your extra camera batteries close to your body to keep them warm.
8. Wildlife
The Tahquamenon area is chock-full of different kinds of wildlife.
There’s everything from bald eagles, wolves, river otters, beavers, coyotes, and many different birds.
Why not grab a pair of binoculars and see if you can spot any?
Winter is actually a fantastic time to go bird-watching. The lack of foliage makes it easier to see the birds.
Plus, due to its location near Whitefish Point, Tahquamenon sees large numbers of migrating birds.
Take a journal so you can write down any remarkable species you see!
9. Fishing
Tahquamenon country has nearly 100 inland lakes, making it the perfect spot to go ice fishing. Besides, what tastes better on a cold wintery day than fresh whitefish, northern pike, or panfish?
The lakes freeze over sometimes as early as December and can stay frozen until March or April.
On the third weekend of February, Michigan waives all fishing license fees. That’s the perfect time to try out the sport! Just make sure you’re still following all the regular fishing regulations.
Make sure to dress warmly and bring warm, waterproof gloves.
You’ll also want snacks and a thermos of hot coffee or chocolate to enjoy while you camp out at your fishing spot.
10. Hunting
For any hunter, the winter season offers some unique advantages.
The snow makes it easy to spot the tracks of animals. Also, it makes it easy to camouflage yourself into your surroundings.
Plus, there are no insects to bite you!
Check out this map of Tahquamenon hunting zones. Please note that it’s illegal to hunt or trap within 400 feet of any building in the park.
You can buy your hunting licenses online or in a store.
11. Sled Dog Rides
For a true winter adventure, look no further than a dog sled ride.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park sometimes offers dog sled rides, or you can check out Nature’s Kennel in McMillan.
This company is highly rated and has multiple winter adventures.
Head out for an overnight excursion, trekking across the country and experiencing the raw beauty of Michigan.
You can also choose from day trips or even train to race your own team in Tahquamenon Country’s 13-mile sled dog race that happens every January!
This is a unique way to experience nature, learn how to mush, and drive your own team of dogs through the woods.
Check out the complete list of adventures on their website.
12. Lighthouses
All along the Upper Peninsula’s Great Lake coasts, you’ll find several lighthouses.
These distinguished landmarks are an essential part of Michigan’s history and continue to guide ships and boats to safety.
3-Crisp Point Lighthouse was one of the four original Lake Superior Lifesaving stations, and the lighthouse was built in 1902.
During the winter, the visitor center isn’t open, but this lighthouse is still a fantastic place to see. Consider taking a car with a 4-wheel drive as the road can be rough.
There are more than 200 shipwrecks around Whitefish Point Light Station, making this a significant lighthouse to the area.
While the Shipwreck Museum is closed during the winter, the area is still beautiful to walk around in. Especially when it’s blanketed with snow.
Point Iroquois Lighthouse is named for the Iroquois warriors massacred in the area in 1662, this lighthouse used to serve one of the busiest areas of Lake Superior.
While it’s since been replaced with an automatic light, the history this building holds is irreplaceable.
Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan
The fun in the Upper Peninsula extends well past Tahquamenon County.
The list of Upper Peninsula winter activities extends to more parks, winter activities, road trips, and fun throughout north Michigan.
13. Ice Sailing
An entertaining thing to do during the winter is ice sailing.
A marriage between board sports like skating, skiing, and snowboarding with sailing uses wind power to soar across the ice.
Adding wind makes sports like skiing and snowboarding more challenging, as you have to use more balance.
Use an iceboat to sail across the frozen lakes, take advantage of the unobstructed wind, and get up some serious speed.
It uses lots of balance and, like most sports, it’s recommended that you take lessons for your first time out on the ice.
14. Snowkiting
Another fun winter sport is snowkiting. Like ice sailing, snowkiting allows you to use kite power to glide on snow.
It looks like a parachute attached to you via a harness and lets skiers power on big jumps.
The frozen stretches of the big and little Big and Little Bays de Noc and Lake Michigan near Escanaba are great locations for this fun activity.
Snowkiting is surprisingly easy to learn. The primary skill you need to know is how to control your kite, and you can use either a snowboard or skis.
15. ATV/Motorcycle Ice Racing
There’s nothing more fun than watching racers compete on motorcycles and ATVs in the middle of winter.
Every year in Gwinn, kids and adults compete in the Upper Michigan Ice Races.
The races take place every Saturday from January 21st to March 11th.
Watching or competing in the races is a fun way to get involved in the community.
See, races use motorcycles or quads rigged with studded or full rubber tires to keep expert control on the ice.
16. Naturbahn Luge in Negaunee
Luge is the French word for “sledge,” this unique sport has roots that go back to the 16th century!
Like an old-fashioned wooden sled, you use your feet, hands, and bodies to steer the sled.
The Naturbahn Luge in Negaunee is a place where Olympic hopefuls train for this unique sport and a place where you can try it out for yourself.
Every year, the bottom section of the track is open to the public.
During the winter months, the track offers instruction and equipment. You have to reserve a session on their website.
Even if you want to avoid trying it out for yourself, it’s still an exciting sport to spectate. You can even reserve the hill for private parties. Talk about a unique experience!
17. Skijoring
If you love your dog, this is the perfect sport for you!
Skijoring is a winter sport where your cross-country skis are pulled by a horse, dog, or even a motorized vehicle.
You must stick with designated dog trails (marked with a blue dog symbol beside the trail name). Luckily, there are plenty of them in the Upper Peninsula!
The Minocqua Winter Park has a 6km skijoring route. Start at Silver Strider and follow the dog paw print signs around the loop.
Essentials include a fitted cap, goggles, gloves, and wool socks.
A good rule of thumb is that dogs 35 pounds and larger can skijor most successfully.
Depending on where you go, you may need to purchase a pass for you and your dog.
18. Museums
For a break from the outdoors and a welcomed respite from the cold, consider checking out a museum!
The Luce County Historical Museum is a resorted sheriff’s residence and jail. Get an authentic peak at what justice used to look like with original jail cells, a courthouse, and more.
The Tahquamenon Logging Museum allows you to see original buildings and memorabilia from the days of loggers.
If you’re ready to venture back out into the cold, check out the boardwalk and see part of Tahquamenon Forest.
An honorable mention is the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum.
You can learn about the perils near Whitefish Point and the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior.
Unfortunately, this museum is closed for most of the winter months. Still, if you’re visiting the Upper Peninsula at other points of the year, you should definitely check it out.
19. International Dark Sky Parks
The views in Michigan don’t disappear with the sunlight. The night sky of the Upper Peninsula is a world of wonder.
The Great Lakes help create the perfect stargazing experience, cutting down on light pollution for unrivaled views of the stars.
There are six state parks in the state with Dark Sky Preserves.
Michigan also has Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Keweenaw Dark Sky Park, and Dr. T.K. Lawless Park.
These internationally designated preserves allow you to see the Milky Way, Aurora Borealis, and more.
Schedule some time to stargaze and be in awe of the world around you. Bring plenty of blankets and hot drinks to stay warm.
20. Down Hill Ski and Snowboarding
Michigan has the second-highest number of ski resorts in the United States!
With a quarter of them located in the Upper Peninsula alone, this is a fantastic destination for anyone wanting to get into Down Hill Skiing or snowboarding.
The annual snowfalls of 200+ inches mean a long ski season. Plus, there are high hill elevations.
From beginners to experts, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Check out Big Powderhorn Mountain for an affordable ski destination perfect for families. There’s even a Snow Sports School so you can hone your abilities.
21. Ice Hockey
For an afternoon of free family fun, look no further than playing a game of Ice Hockey!
Marquette Commons hosts ice skating, Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 8 pm. Once you’re done playing on the ice, head to a warming hut for a break.
If you’re more interested in watching some fun games, stop by Moran Bay in Lake Huron. During the winter, little league hockey teams use the ice as a practice rink.
22. Ice Caves
The Eben Ice Caves outside Marquette are a must-do for anyone visiting the Upper Peninsula.
These caves form when melting snow runs over the edge of a small cliff. When the water freezes, it creates these ice caves.
Come prepared for a little walk to get to the caves. A little less than a mile, you’ll head through a farmer’s field to see them.
The insides of the caves can be really slick, so you’ll want to bring ice cleats.
After checking out the caves, stop by the Eben Ice Caves concession stand and buy a hot drink to warm up.
23. Ice Skating
Ice skating is a fantastic way to get moving during the long winter months in Michigan.
No matter where you are in the state, you will find plenty of ice rinks.
In the Upper Peninsula, some of the best ice skating rinks include Royce Park in Escanaba.
This outdoor rink has music and a warming station. As a bonus, it’s also free! Talk about a win-win.
Lakeview Arena in Marquette is another excellent option. This indoor rink has public skating available and offers skate rentals.
If you’re planning on ice skating a lot, it’s worth investing in your own pair of skates.
24. Tubing/Sledding
There’s nothing more exhilarating than flying down a hill, cold air against your face as you toboggan or tube.
Michigan is a fantastic place to go tubing and has many great spots in the Upper Peninsula. Talk about a family-friendly activity.
Check out Mont Ripley in Hancock, which has an excellent snow tubing hill. It also has over 20 snow trails for skiing, so you can switch it up.
The John & Melissa Best Sports Park is another excellent snow tubing location. There are even safety ropes and paddle tows to make the experience more enjoyable.
25. Snow Angels
If you’ve never made a snow angel, a trip to the Upper Peninsula is the perfect opportunity.
You’ll want a big patch of fresh or undisturbed snow. Fall backward with your arms outstretched. The goal is to look like a “t.”
Next, you’ll want to move your arms and legs. Pretend you’re doing jumping jacks on the ground!
Lastly, get up slowly and take a picture of your creation.
For some extra fun, turn it into a competition and see who can make the best snow angel.
26. Build a Snowman or Igloo
Another fun winter activity for all ages is building a snowman. If you want more of a challenge, try and create an igloo.
The base snowman is just three large balls of snow with a carrot nose, some buttons, and a hat for warmth.
However, you can spend more time creating ornate sculptures out of snow. Wet snow is preferable for building a great snowman.
Creating an igloo is more work, and you might need a mold to make your snow “bricks.” Remember to leave a vent at the top of your Igloo!
27. Have a Snowball Fight!
The only appropriate response to spending time in the snow? Having a snowball fight, of course!
The most fun fight you’ll ever be a part of, spend time chucking hard-packed snow at your family and friends.
Whether you decide to host a formal challenge or you spontaneously start one, snowball fights are a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and make good memories.
Getting an average of 120 inches of snow a year, the Upper Peninsula is the perfect spot to host a battle.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay warm outdoors and work up an appetite for delicious, warm food.
Where to Stay in Tahquamenon Falls in Winter
If you’re planning your stay in Tahquamenon Falls this winter and are wondering where to stay, I’d recommend choosing the Quality Inn & Suites.
This hotel is reasonably priced and only a 30-minute drive away from Tahquamenon State Falls.
Plus, there’s an included American Breakfast to fuel up before heading out on your adventures and a sauna and hot tub to warm up in once you return.
Tahquamenon Falls Winter Visiting Tips
Check out my top tips for visiting Tahquamenon Falls in the winter.
Watch Weather Advisories
Check the main Tahquamenon Falls State Park website for advisories, weather alerts, and up-to-date park information.
Pack Smart
Not only do you want to wear lots of layers against the cold, but it’s also a good idea to have flashlights, a charged cell phone, water, and a compass when heading out on a winter adventure.
Inform Others of Your Plans
It’s always a good idea to let others know where you’re planning to travel to and when you’re planning to be back.
Bring Snacks
With all the adventuring you’ll be doing, you’ll be working up an appetite. Remember to bring delicious snacks to keep you fueled for all you’re doing.
Have Fun!
The outdoors is so gorgeous, and there’s nothing quite like getting to experience raw beauty. Take advantage of every moment and create lasting memories with your family and friends.
Tahquamenon Falls Winter: FAQ
Typically, the Upper Falls remains flowing throughout the entire winter season. The Lower Falls generally is mostly frozen by January.
Depending on what you want to experience, Tahquamenon Falls is open year-round. In early spring, the falls are a powerful rush of water. In the winter, enjoy the unique ice formations and stunning views of the falls.
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers highs of 28 °F and lows of -20°F. However, with plenty of snow to play in and crisp air, Michigan is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors and enjoy winter.
Final Thoughts: Tahquamenon Falls Winter
Tahquamenon Falls’s winter activities are sure to please any traveler.
While it might be tempting to spend the colder months indoors, you won’t regret leaving the house and heading to the Upper Peninsula.
There are so many adventures to be had, and the stunning views of the Upper and Lower Falls, Tahquamenon forest, and the tranquility of nature are a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of regular life.
Whether you’re an extreme adventurer or want a more low-key vacation, you’ll find that the UP has something for you.
Make sure to take plenty of layers to fight against the cold, and prepare to make the memories of a lifetime.
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