Enjoy the great outdoors this winter by playing in the snow! Whether hitting the slopes or exploring the great outdoors, Charlevoix is a snow-filled wonderland, averaging around 120 inches of snowfall each winter. Charlevoix's winter recreation is some of the best in the Midwest with a great variety of snow sports. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in the winter:
Hit the trails
Experience the wonderment of winter. Situated on three beautiful lakes, Charlevoix has many picturesque places to see and experience winter unlike ever before. Winter hiking along the shores of Lake Michigan is bucket list-worthy. Visit Lake Michigan Beach and the park area to experience windswept shores, ice caves, the occasional Petoskey and Charlevoix stone, and so much more. Bring your camera with you to capture amazing photos of the Charlevoix lighthouse and the amazing ice formations along the beach. Looking to get out for an extended hike? The Susan Creek Nature Preserve is a great place to spend a snowy afternoon exploring the Charlevoix countryside. Charlevoix boasts more than 20 nature preserves, but our favorites for winter fun are: Charles Ransom Nature Preserve, Nick Adams Nature Preserve, Antrim Creek Nature Preserve, and Driggers Nature Preserve. 
Explore Mt McSauba Recreation Area
We don't issue this statement lightly, but the ultimate place for winter activities is Mt. McSauba! If you're traveling with kids, Mt. McSauba is a great place for kids to go sledding (bring your own), ice skating, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and skiing or snowboarding. Mt. McSauba is perfect for the beginner or intermediate skier/snowboarder with six runs, four rope tows, lighted skiing, and a terrain park. It's also known for great ski lessons!
The 80 acres of wooded trails at Mt. McSauba are the perfect combination of groomed and natural powder trails. These trails are great for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. For the thrill-seeker looking to try something new, rent a fat tire bike and explore the trails via pedal power.
Experience the Quiet Wonder at State Parks
There is something awe-inspiring about Michigan's state parks; especially in the winter! Situated a few miles south of Charlevoix along the shores of Lake Michigan, Fisherman’s Island State Park offers miles of ungroomed and rugged trails with spectacular lake views. This park is great for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Located between Charlevoix and Boyne City, Young State Park has an easy-to-navigate trail system that offers guests low-impact and gently rolling trails with dazzling views of Lake Charlevoix. This state park is perfect for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and general exploring. Each of these state treasures is a must-see where you can enjoy breathtaking water views along the trails and quiet serenity that can be found in winter.
Try a new (to you) winter sport
If you're traveling without your snowshoes or want to try something new, Charlevoix has equipment rentals available. One of the easiest places to 
rent skis, snowshoes, cross country skis, or ice skates is at the lodge at Mt. McSauba. Their awesome staff will help fit you to the right equipment and send you on your way. They offer equipment rentals daily or hourly. If you're looking to try a fat tire bike, Revolution Bike has a great selection of rentals available and their knowledgeable staff is ready to assist first-time fat tire bikers. Fun fact: you can even rent snowshoes from the Charlevoix Public Library.
Get outside this winter by exploring Charlevoix’s extensive trail system. After your adventures grab a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or craft beer and bite to eat at one of the many delectable local eateries and pubs.
