Hey there, snow lovers! We're Justin and Lindsay, and after spending countless weekends exploring every snowy corner of Michigan, we're thrilled to share our ultimate guide to winter romance in the Great Lakes State. From thrilling adventures to cozy experiences, we're bringing you the most authentic recommendations of Michigan winter activities for couples!
Michigan Winter Activities for Couples:1. Dog Sledding in Northern Michigan 2. Snowshoeing at Sleeping Bear Dunes 3. Ice Climbing in the Upper Peninsula 4. Winter Ziplining at Boyne Mountain 5. Ice Skating at Campus Martius 6. Ice Wine Tasting Experience |
1. Dog Sledding in Northern Michigan
Picture yourself gliding through pristine snow-covered trails behind a team of enthusiastic huskies in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Book with Nature's Kennel for the best experience. Ask for Elizabeth - she worked as a musher in Alaska and has a unique bond with the pups! Early morning runs (around 7 AM) offer the most pristine trails and best wildlife viewing opportunities. The half-day offering is the most affordable, although you may even consider one of their overnight camping experiences at mushers village.
Local Tip: Nature's Kennel even has an epic photography workshop coming up this February which pairs dog sledding with photography lessons at Tahquamenon Falls State Park and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Learn more here!
Cost: $460-610 per couple
Duration: Half-day
Best time: January-March
🐕 Want to witness dog sledding instead of partaking in it? Head to Marquette in February to experience the UP200, one of the most top-notch sled dog races out there. |
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2. Snowshoeing at Sleeping Bear Dunes
There's something magical about exploring Michigan's most iconic dunes when they're blanketed in snow. We've mapped out the perfect romantic snowshoeing route that most tourists never discover.
Insider secret: Start at the Empire Bluff Trail about 90 minutes before sunset. Pack hot cocoa and snacks in a thermos (we love local Cherry Republic hot chocolate). About 3/4 mile in, there's a stunning cliff-side lookout spot with views of the dune to the north. It's the perfect spot to watch the sun set over Lake Michigan while enjoying your warm drinks.
Cost: $25 park entrance fee, snowshoe rentals $20/half day
Duration: 2-3 hours
Best trails: Empire Bluff (sunset), Bay View (morning), Pyramid Point (afternoon)
3. Ice Climbing in the Upper Peninsula
Did you know that you can scale frozen waterfalls in Munising? We can confidently say this is one of Michigan's most thrilling winter activities. The Pictured Rocks area transforms into an ice climber's paradise, with over 100 climbable ice formations.
Local insight: Book your trip during Michigan Ice Fest in February. Not only do you get access to top-notch gear and instruction, but the evening festivities bring together an amazing community of winter adventurers. The perfect time to meet new friends is around the festival's bonfire!
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4. Winter Ziplining at Boyne Mountain
Ever wondered what it's like to soar through a winter wonderland? Boyne Mountain's winter experience is unmatched. The contrast of white snow against dark pines creates a stunning backdrop as you zip between platforms.
Insider tip: Book the last tour of the day (usually 3 PM in winter) for the most dramatic lighting. Dress in layers and don't forget your GoPro - the footage is incredible! The staff will help you get the perfect shot.
Cost: $75-95 per person
Duration: 2.5-3 hours
Best time: Late afternoon for optimal lighting
🎿 Keep the adventures coming with lift tickets and hit the slopes at one of the top ski resorts in the lower peninsula. |
5. Ice Skating at Campus Martius
Detroit's winter gem transforms into a magical experience after dark. We've skated here a handful of times, and the best experience is always in the month of December when the Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge is open (hours below)! .
Hidden gem: Skip the weekend crowds and come on a weekday evening around 6 PM. Afterwards, grab a warm waffle from the Waffle Cabin and make sure its drizzled with their real Belgian chocolate!
Cost: $12 admission, $6 skate rental
Duration: 1-2 hours
Best time: Wed /Thurs: 11 AM – 8 PM; Fri /Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM; Sun: 11 AM – 7 PM
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6. Ice Wine Tasting Experience
The Leelanau Peninsula's microclimate creates perfect conditions for ice wine production. We've visited many wineries in the region, and Black Star Farms consistently offers the most memorable experience.
Insider tip: Head to Black Star Farms on a thursday between 4-8pm when you can get their $30 pizza and pinot special for two! You can also rent snowshoes between 12pm-5pm (or bring your own) and explore the winery trails. The perfect date night!🍷
Cost: $20-30 per couple
Duration: 2-3 hours
Best winter wineries: Black Star Farms, Chateau Chantal, Brys Estate
7. Cross-Country Skiing at Crystal Mountain
While cross-country skiing can be done in many local parks throughout Michigan, Crystal Mountain's network stands out for its variety and maintenance. The peaceful forest trails offer a perfect mix of beginner and advanced routes.
Pro tip: Start with the Aspen trail at sunrise - the way the light filters through the snow-covered pines is breathtaking. The resort's rental shop opens early, and the staff can recommend routes based on your experience level.
Cost: $20 trail pass, $30 equipment rental
Duration: 4 hours
Best trails: Aspen, Doe's Delight, Hawk's Ridge
🧘 Take it at a slower pace with snowshoe rentals starting at $15/hour |
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8. Winter Lighthouse Tour
Michigan's lighthouses take on a different character in winter. The Big Sable Point lighthouse trail is our favorite - the winter transformation is magical. Be sure to bundle up! The wind off of Lake Michigan in no joke.
Local insight: Time your visit during a light snowfall - the contrast between the black and white lighthouse against the gray sky is stunning. Pack microspikes (or showshoes) for your boots and a thermos of hot cider.
Cost: $8 park entrance fee
Duration: 3-4 hours
Best lighthouses: Big Sable Point, Point Betsie
Note: Lighthouses will be closed for tours during the winter months
🚘 If drive-up lighthouses are more your style in winter, consider visiting Point Betsie Lighthouse along the scenic M-22 |
9. Winter Horseback Riding
Horseback riding through snowy trails offers a unique perspective on Michigan's winter landscape. Ranch Rudolf near Traverse City is our go-to spot that pair perfectly with a winter brew tour in Michigan's cherry capital.
Cost: $180 for 2-10 people
Duration: 40 minutes
Availability: First week in Dec through the last week in Feb
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10. Winter Cave Exploring
Michigan's lesser-known winter activity is exploring ice caves along the Great Lakes shoreline. Below, we've mapped out the best and safest locations.
Pictured Rocks: Always go with a guide from Lake Superior Ice Cave Tours - they monitor ice conditions daily and provide all necessary safety equipment. Early February typically offers the most stable ice formations.
Cost: $95-125 per person
Duration: 3-4 hours
Best locations: Grand Island, Eben Ice Caves
🥾 Explore on your own: the Eben Ice Cave Trail only 26 minutes from Munising |
Michigan's winter wonderland offers endless possibilities for adventure-seeking couples. From heart-pumping activities like ice climbing and dog sledding to romantic experiences like sunset balloon rides and cozy wine tastings, there's something for every couple looking to create unforgettable winter memories.
Ready to start your winter adventure? Book your activities early, especially for popular experiences like dog sledding and the snowcat dinner. Many of these destinations offer special winter packages during January and February.
For the latest updates adventures in the. midwest and beyond, sign up for our monthly newsletter or follow us on social media. Adventure awaits in Pure Michigan!
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