Winter has arrived in full force, and for those of us who’ve been snow dancing — we did it! Munising is a winter wonderland, and we couldn’t feel luckier. The fresh snow isn’t just beautiful; it’s an open invitation to bundle up and explore all the magic our hometown has to offer.
If you’re ready to hit the trails, Valley Spur Recreation Area in the Hiawatha National Forest has you covered with 27 miles of groomed ski trails — perfectly prepped for both classic and skate skiing. (Quick note for pet lovers: No pups are allowed on the ski trails.) Valley Spur also offers two snowshoe loops if you prefer a slower-paced trek through the woods.
A big shout-out to everyone who supported the fundraiser for Valley Spur’s new tractor. It’s currently being fitted with tracks and will be out smoothing trails soon. Your generosity makes it all possible. The Valley Spur lodge is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with volunteers ready to greet you Thursday through Sunday.
Looking for a gentler start? Head to the Upper Parking Lot, about a mile west of the main trailhead. It offers easier access to the ski trails without those big hills. This spot also leads to the Wyman Pines Snow Bike Trail, a groomed singletrack trail perfect for snow biking, snowshoeing or skiing. And yes — dogs are welcome here.
Mark your calendars for the Valley Spur Classic Ski Race on Feb. 2. More details and updates are available at valleyspur.org or on their Facebook page.
For snow bikers looking to venture off the beaten path, check out the Pine Line Snow Bike Trail, located 2 miles south on H-13 via Chamberlain Road. This newly groomed 4-mile out-and-back trail is open to snowshoers, skiers and snow bikers — and yes, dogs, too. Just keep in mind that fresh snow can make the trail a little soft at times.
If you’re sticking close to town, the Munising Bay Mountain Bike Park/Non-Motorized Trails offers a fantastic place for snowshoers and backcountry skiers. The Gateway Loop (1.3 miles) is a local favorite — crossing a creek, winding over bridges and giving you a solid cardio boost as you climb.
Pro tip: Heavy snow and winds can make this trail tricky on the steep, western-facing hillsides, so don’t hesitate to turn back if you feel unsafe or the trail hasn’t been blazed. You can also check out the Munising Bay Loop, accessed from the Gateway Loop — another great option for snowshoers and backcountry skiers. Note that these trails are snowshoe-packed, not groomed for snow bikes. Dogs are welcome to join you.
For a bit of nighttime magic, join the MBTN Annual Bottle- Lit Snowshoe Hike tomorrow night, Saturday, Jan. 18, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s an unforgettable way to enjoy the trails by the soft glow of bottle lights. Follow the Munising Bay Trail Network on Facebook for updates. More information is available on mbtn.org as well.
Looking for even more spots to explore? The Munising Ski Trails, maintained by Pictured Rocks National Park, are another fantastic option for classic skiing (but dogs need to sit this one out). For a more tucked-away adventure, head to the McKeever Ski Trails. These USFS-maintained trails offer 7 miles of groomed trails for classic skiing — and you can bring your dog along. Stay up to date with McKeever’s trail conditions by visiting skinnyski. com.
A quick reminder about trail etiquette: Winter trails are carefully groomed for skiing, snowshoeing and biking, so let’s keep them safe and fun for everyone. Please avoid boot walking on groomed trails. Postholes (those deep footprints in the snow) can make the trails hazardous for other users. Let’s all do our part to preserve the magic of winter adventures.
So, whether you’re strapping on skis, snowshoes or hopping on a snow bike — Munising’s winter trails are calling. Get outside, explore and enjoy every snowy step.
