Winter at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

A person stands in front of gigantic blue ice formations
Ice curtains are a popular sight to see during the winter months!

NPS photo

Pictured Rocks is a Snowy Wonderland Waiting for You to Explore ...

Winter at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a unique time of year. The serenity and splendor that ample snowfall brings to the northwoods offers visitors endless opportunites for adventure. What's your favorite winter activity? We have a lot to choose from: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, viewing ice formations, winter camping, and ice fishing.

The annual snowfall for Munising averages about 140 inches while the average for Grand Marais is slightly higher. Some winters have snowfall totals over 200 inches. Snow usually starts to accumulate on the ground by mid-November and lasts until late April. The park does not plow any park roads except Sand Point Road (See winter road closure page for more info.).

Remember to follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles while out in the park (Learn more about winter LNT principles). And please no hiking, walking, or snowshoeing on the groomed ski trails!

REMINDER: Visitors in all seasons are required to purchase or display a park entrance pass.


SO, HOW DO YOU WANT TO EXPLORE THE WINTER LAKESHORE?
 
Snowshoeing on the Munising Snowshoe Trail.
Snowshoeing in a Winter Wonderland

Come explore the park's pristine winter beauty by snowshoe.

Cross country ski trailhead in Munising with ski tracks nearby
Cross-Country Skiing

Over 20 miles of trails wind through a magical landscape of varied habitats and topography.

Ice climbing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Ice Climbing

Ample lake effect snow, numerous waterfalls, and porous sandstone cliffs creates ideal conditions for ice climbing.

Person viewing curtains of ice in early winter that form along the sandstone escarpment.
Viewing Ice Curtains

View stunning ice "caves" and ice curtains that form along Sand Point Road from mid-December to early April.

Camper
Want to Backcountry Camp in the Winter?

Enjoy camping in peace and quiet during one of the most incredible seasons at the lakeshore!

Miner's Castle road covered in snow
Snowmobiling

A number of unplowed roads lead to major points of interest, and a snowmobiler's dream ride.

 
 

Last updated: January 12, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 40
Munising, MI 49862

Phone:

906-387-3700
Munising Falls Visitor Center

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