visiting Munising, MI

The Upper Peninsula has a storied past but the present is showing how a few small Yooper towns have re-envisioned themselves to include eco-tourism during the winter. None have done it better than Munising, Michigan.

We are all familiar with the Munising in the summer; full of tourists flocking to see shipwrecks and the Painted Rocks in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. But winter is a unique time to visit Munising as the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. Despite the cold, there is plenty to do in the "off" season!

Miner's Falls in winter.

Ice climbing has become a large economic driver during the winter. With world-class ice climbing, one of the largest ice climbing festivals in the nation, and a full time guide service; Munising has used this resource to welcome climbers from across the country. Michigan Ice Fest draws an extra 3,000 people for a week of clinics, sponsored athlete presentations, and after-parties that aren't to be missed! Can't make it to the festival? Michigan Ice Fest Guides is ready 7 days a week to get you climbing on beginner friendly terrain or dangling out over Lake Superior for those more adventurous souls. Consider hiring a local climbing guide!

Snowmobiling keeps hotels and Airbnbs packed to the gills when Ice Fest isn't in full swing. Munising was named the "snowmobile capital of the mid-west" with 10 trails covering 300 miles! With the ability to ride your sled downtown to numerous hotels, eateries, and breweries Munising is ready to welcome families, or groups or any size! Visit Renze Power Sports or Fast Trax for any last minute accessories or parts!

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is home to pristine wilderness for unlimited snowshoeing and winter camping and ice climbing. With 48 miles of coastline you can backpack the entire way to Grand Marais from Munising. Check out recreation.gov for permits. Only in town for the day? Check out the Curtains ice caves and ice climbing. Cross country skis can be rented from South Bay Outfitters to check out the ski trails in PRNL!

Eben Ice Caves is a beautiful hike through the Rock River Wilderness in Hiawatha National Forest. The hiking terrain isn't difficult but you must be prepared with some type of traction device beyond your boots. This hike is engaging; covering packed snow and ice to get to the bottom of the ice caves. Once there, you'll be in a wonderland walking behind frozen columns of ice in a large sandstone amphitheater.

East Channel Brewing after Ice Climbing!

Breweries & Local Fare. There is no better way to wrap up a chilly day of exploring by checking out the local beer and food scene. East Channel Brewing has two inviting locations right down town. Dee's Dinky Diner located inside East Channel serves up local cuisine with a unique Yooper flare. Main Street Pizza, Eh! Burger, and are also options for dine-in or to-go orders.

Consider supporting local businesses while on your trip through the Upper Peninsula. Your dollars are truly appreciated!

About the author:

Westley is a local climbing guide based in Munising, MI during the winter months and Washington and Alaska during the summer. He is a certified Climbing Instructor and Apprentice Alpine Guide. Want to try ice climbing? Feel free to reach out!