Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skier

NPS photo

Winter Wonderland
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers two groomed and tracked cross-country ski trails with multiple loops; one is located near Munising and the other is near Grand Marais. These trails wind more than 20 miles through a magical landscape of varied habitats and topography, including beech, maple, hemlock, and conifer forests, old gently rolling farm fields, and rugged hills created in the park's glacial past. Since this region receives about 140+ inches of snow each year, skiing is one of the park's most popular winter sports.

Each trail offers a variety of loop lengths for a leisurely day ski or quick workout at the end of the day. All lakeshore trails are designed for diagonal stride only - skating is not permitted. In addition, pets, winter camping, snowshoeing, and walking are not permitted on lakeshore ski trails.

Trails are marked with blue diamonds. Maps are located at trailheads and at trail intersections. Watch and listen for grooming equipment when you ski. Some Munising trail loops feature interpretive wayside exhibits along the route. Be sure to stop at these to learn about some of the interesting natural and human history of the area.

Skiing is free at the lakeshore; however, the park has installed donation boxes for those who wish to assist us in the cost of maintaining these beautiful trails.

Whether you are a novice or an accomplished skier, we hope you find the trails challenging and fun.

 

For Your Safety

On the Munising Trail, loops A and B cross a snowmobile trail at four locations - listen and watch for approaching snowmobiles before crossing.

On the Grand Marais Trail, loops C and D cross a county road used by snowmobiles - listen and watch for approaching snowmobiles before crossing.

Ski trail conditions may vary. Heavy weekend use and alternating daytime thawing and nighttime freezing may turn snow-packed slopes into fast, icy runs. Watch for other skiers on downhill runs. Severe storms are common in the area and can occur quickly. Wind may obliterate the trail at times.

Darkness comes early in winter so allow plenty of time to return to your vehicle before dark. As always, be sure to let someone know you where are skiing and when you expect to return.

Wear adequate layers of clothing. Take food and water if you plan to be out for the day. Match your skill level to the trails you ski.

 

For more information about skiing within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and nearby trails ...

Grand Marais Cross-Country Ski Trails (pdf)
Munising Cross-Country Ski Trails (pdf)

Grand Marais School Forest Ski Trails
Valley Spur Ski Trails

 

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