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Michigan’s
Eastern Upper Peninsula is a snowmobiler’s paradise offering
over 1,000 miles of scenic, well-groomed trails combined with many
exciting points of interest to thrill riders in this region. With
the three majestic Great Lakes of Superior, Michigan and Huron surrounding
this area, trails through the Eastern UP provide a multitude of
points to view these spectacular bodies of water.
Sault
Ste. Marie, located in the northeast corner of Chippewa County,
invites snowmobilers to share in their history and the many sites
of this area. Trail 8 heading west will take rides through Brimley
and on to Paradise; both located on the scenic Whitefish Bay of
Lake Superior. Be certain to take the Falls Trail to see the spectacular
Upper Tahquamenon Falls, which is the second largest waterfall east
of the Mississippi River and is sometimes referred to as the “Little
Niagara”. Many magnificent ice formations are created by the
falls in the gorge providing excellent photo opportunities.
Travelilng
north of Paradise toward Whitefish Point, riders experience the
natural beauty of area first hand. A special treat to see the oldest
lighthouse on Lake Superior, which is not far from the resting spot
of the ill-fated ship the Edmund Fitzgerald. Southwest of this area,
the Falls Trail leads riders to Newberry in southern Luce County.
This area offers snowmobilers many comfortable lodging choices and
delicious dining experiences located within a day’s ride to
Tahquamenon Falls and Whitefish Point areas.
Newberry,
Michigan, about 60 miles from the Mackinac Bridge, is one of the
major snowmobiling areas in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Snowmobile
rental is available.
Newberry
has it all for snowmobilers. The grooming is done by dedicated experts.
There are about 300 motel rooms available, there is fine dining,
excellent night life, and an almost perfect trail system which connects
to the rest of the Upper Peninsula.
The
serious snowmobilers who are interested in any type of riding stay
at Newberry. There is unlimited off trail riding, lake riding, attractions
galore, and a trail system which accommodates those who like to
put on the miles.
The
trail system is similar to a spoked wagon wheel with Newberry being
the hub.
To
the northeast lies the most used or favorite trail of snowmobilers,
the trail to Paradise, Whitefish Point and of course, Tahquamenon
Falls. This has been a favorite of snowmobilers since snowmobiling
began.
To
the northwest of Newberry is the trail to Grand Marais. The trip
to Grand Marais is about a 3 hour trip through the beauty of Michigan's
true north woods.
Three
hours to the west of Newberry is Munising, another favorite of snowmobilers.
This is the home of the Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore Area.
To
the southwest is Curtis and Manistique. Manistique is about a 3
hour trip and Curtis is on the way. At Curtis you will find Manistique
Lake and Whitefish or South Manistique Lake. The lake riding in
this area is excellent.
Southeast
of Newberry is St Ignace, the gateway to the U.P. This area is where
you can ride the the tree line to Mackinac Island.
To
the east of Newberry is Sault Ste. Marie about a 4 hour trip if
you go through Paradise.
South
of Newberry Trail 9 connects with Trail 45 traveling west to Manistique
on the north shore of Lake Michigan before continuing on to Gladstone
and Escanaba in Delta County.
Along
the way the luck rider can enjoy the impressive scenery along the
Lake Michigan shoreline and its many bays while riding on smooth,
well-groomed trails. Another option from Trail 45 is to journey
west to Trail 43 and head north along the Seney National Wildlife
Area in Schoolcraft County. This region is teeming with wildlife
and serene snow-blanketed forests for the nature lover.
Located
on the southeastern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is the
picturesque town of St. Ignace, the north gate to the Mackinac Bridge.
This 7400 foot bridge connects Upper and Lower Michigan and is the
world’s longest suspension bridge. The Mackinac Bridge Authority
will trailer snowmobiles across the bridge for a small fee. Please
call in advance to make arrangements. East of St. Ignace snowmobilers
may choose to tour Drummond Island. One hundred miles of groomed
trails allow riders to take the grand tour of the island and experience
its natural beauty. Snowmobilers may journey across to Canada on
the two International Ice Brideges. These tree-lined ice bridges
are 12 to 18 miles long and are operable from January to April.
The
Eastern Upper Peninsula is truly a winter wonderland for the snowmobiler
looking for plenty of snow, magnificent scenery and miles and miles
of exciting well-groomed trails. This region boasts a wide variety
of delicious dining choices and comfortable lodging accommodations
to serve you after a long day on the trail.
No
agency has been more active in transforming Michigan into a haven
for snowmobile enthusiasts than the Michigan Department of Natural
Resources (MDNR). They are the creators and guardians of West Michigan’s
major trail network through the state park system. But to use MDNR
trails, you must have a permit. The cost is $10. Permits may be
obtained by calling WMTA at (800) 442-2084.
Snowmobiling
is becoming more and more a family sport. Safety is paramount. Most
accidents occur when drivers override their headlights at high speeds
on remote trails. Alcohol is frequently a factor. When you snowmobile
in West Michigan, observe state laws. Protect the environment and
your own safety by sticking to established trails. Use common sense
and courtesy. And enjoy.
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