7 Michigan Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

When winter arrives in the Great Lake State, it can be very easy to sleep the cloudy months away. But Michigan becomes a whimsical marshmallow world that we can embrace and explore! Some spots get ever cooler (get it?) in the chilly winter months. You can go sledding, ride a barge, or take a scenic hike when you lace up your snow boots, grab your winter hiking essentials, and get out this winter on these exciting one-day trips in Michigan!

Township of McMillan, McMillan Township, MI 49868, USA

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The impressive Tahquamenon Falls' upper and lower waterfalls are commonly visited in the warmer months. But the state park is open year-round and offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking trails, and camping. The upper falls rarely freeze over and offer a unique view of the popular waterfall without all the crowds. The lower falls are mostly frozen over by January and will leave a small trickle that leads to a river.

462 N Scenic Dr, Muskegon, MI 49445, USA

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Winter is perhaps the best time to visit Muskegon State Park in West Michigan. Did you know the park is home to one of just four luge tracks in the United States? Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park has an 850-foot slide of natural ice that visitors can luge down. You can book a 2.5-hour session where you are trained and fitted to a proper sled before you take the ride of your life.

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1809 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48640, USA

Dow Gardens/Facebook

The highlight of Midland, Michigan is Dow Gardens which is a lovely botanical garden and event space. You can book tickets to take a self-guided tour of the 110 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. The canopy walk gives you a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the winter wonderland below.

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Maple City, MI 49664, USA

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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park is a must-see bucket list destination in Michigan. Empire Bluff Trail offers the best views of the park, and the trail can be quite busy in the warmer months. The 1.5-mile hike is moderate and can be a bit more challenging in the winter, but when you reach the outlook and see Lake Michigan in all its winter splendor, it will be worth it.

Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

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The crown jewel of Michigan is Mackinac Island, where visitors come from all over the country to experience the unique car-free destination. When you visit in the height of the summer, the island is filled with tourists, which is why we are partial to spending a winter day (or weekend) here. You’ll most likely run into only island locals, and it will feel like you have the entire place to yourself. The state park trails are open year-round for you to hike and explore.

Sawmill Road, Sawmill Rd, Thompson Township, MI 49854, USA

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Kitchi-iti-kipi is a freshwater spring in the Upper Peninsula in Manistique, Michigan. The viewing platform is actually a barge that takes you across the enchanting turquoise waters, even in the winter! The natural area is so pristine and you glide along on the clear, deep water to witness the awe-inspiring stream.

South Lakeshore Drive, S Lakeshore Dr, Sand Beach Township, MI 48441, USA

Pond Hill Farms/Facebook

Located on the north shore of Grand Traverse Bay in Harbor Springs, Michigan, Pond Hill Farms is the perfect family-friendly winter getaway. Pond Hill is a working farm with a groomed sledding hill that is so steep helmets are recommended. Pond Hill also has a restaurant that offers delicious farm-to-table meal events that you can book in advance.

No more searching “winter day trips near me” for you! Don’t waste away winter in front of your TV, get out and appreciate Michigan’s snow! Before you do, check out The Ultimate Survival Guide For Winter In Michigan so you’re prepared for a chilly day trip.