WINTER ACTIVITIES & TRAILS

SNOWMOBILING

This area is a snowmobiler’s mecca, boasting over 2,000 miles of groomed trails. Riders can explore unplowed logging roads, railroad grades, and secluded paths through the National Forest. Travel through thick cedar groves, pass breathtaking caverns along Lake Superior with unique rock formations and frozen waterfalls. Other popular routes include rides over Lake Gogebic and across open prairie lands, making this one of the premier snowmobiling destinations in North America.

The snowmobile season generally runs from December 1st through the end of March. Michigan and Wisconsin state permits must be displayed on all sleds and can be purchased online.

Area Maps:
Gogebic County Trail Map
Iron County Snowmobile Map

Ironwood Area Recreation Map

XC/SNOWSHOEING

ABR Ski Trails – Ironwood, MI
- Located along the Montreal River, the ABR Ski Touring Center offers over 1,100 acres of varied terrain. Trails include skate/classic combination routes, singletrack classic trails, and multi-use paths for snowshoeing and skijoring. The center provides equipment rentals, warming huts, saunas, showers, and ski lessons.

Montreal Ski Trails – Montreal, WI
- Covering 11 kilometers, these trails are groomed for classic cross-country skiing and also welcome snowshoers, walkers, and dogs. In summer, they are open for hiking. The route passes through the site of the historic Montreal Mine, with interpretive signs along the way.

Miner’s Ski Trail – Ironwood, MI
- Located in Miners Memorial Heritage Park, these trails feature 4.6 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Interpretive signs highlight the area’s mining history.

Mt. Zion Trail – Ironwood, MI
- Located on the Gogebic Community College campus, Mt. Zion features a free cross-country ski trail that is also open to snowshoers.

Split Rock Trails – Wakefield, MI
- These trails circle the historic Flink Location iron ore mine and are open for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing. The route passes through forested terrain with scenic overlooks, unique rock formations, and remnants of a once-thriving mining town.

Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails – Ironwood Township, MI
- With 24 kilometers of ski trails, 14 kilometers of snowshoe trails, and 7 kilometers of snow bike trails, Wolverine offers a wide variety of winter options. The main trailhead and warming chalet are located off Section 12 Rd and Sunset Rd, with access also available near Big Powderhorn Mountain.

Uller Ski Trails - Upson, WI
- Uller Ski Trails feature 11 miles of groomed backcountry routes winding through the scenic Penokee Range. The trails offer rolling, wooded terrain with shorter spur options for those seeking a shorter outing. Access points are available at Weber Lake, Iron Belt, Pence, and Montreal.

WATERFALLS

Please note: Some parking areas may not be plowed frequently in winter. Many of these trails are not groomed—use caution. Snowshoes are recommended during snowy months.

Black River Falls – North of Bessemer, MI
- This collection of five stunning waterfalls—Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone, and Rainbow Falls—is located along the Black River Scenic Parkway. The road ends at Black River Harbor, where you can hike additional trails, enjoy a picnic, or relax on the beach. Each waterfall has its own parking area and unique viewpoint.

Gabbro Falls – Bessemer, MI
- A beautiful, wild-feeling waterfall just a short walk from the roadside. Despite its easy access, Gabbro Falls remains largely undeveloped and is considered one of the best hidden gems in the western U.P. It’s located near the base of Blackjack Mountain.

Interstate Falls – Hurley, WI
- Interstate Falls is a 19-foot waterfall on the Montreal River, located right along the Wisconsin–Michigan border. An easy 0.3-mile trail through hardwood-hemlock forest leads to overlooks and viewing platforms. *The parking lot is usually plowed in winter.

Powderhorn Falls – Bessemer, MI
- A small but scenic waterfall located off Powderhorn Road. A short trail near the road leads to the top of the falls, where you'll find a wooden swing chair—perfect for a picnic or quiet moment by the water.

Interstate Falls

TUBING/SLEDDING

Miner’s Memorial Heritage Park Sledding Hill – Ironwood, MI
- This walk-up sledding hill is a local favorite, running from the curve of Bonnie Street down Old Bonnie Road to the intersection of Bonnie and Ayer Streets. Sledders should bring their own sleds, though shared community sleds are sometimes available at the top of the hill. The area is groomed in winter along with nearby ski and snowshoe trails.

Mt. Zion Snow Tubing Park – Ironwood, MI
- Located on the campus of Gogebic Community College, Mt. Zion offers a groomed snow tubing park that's fun for all ages. Riders are towed back up the hill, making it easy to enjoy run after run. A ticket is required, but prices are affordable—making it a great option for families and groups.

ICE FISHING

Ice fishing in the Western Upper Peninsula offers a wide range of opportunities for anglers of all experience levels. On Lake Superior, experienced fishers can test their skills catching lake trout, chinook, coho salmon, and steelhead—often hauled up from deep, icy waters. Inland lakes throughout the region offer excellent chances to catch pike, trout, bass, muskie, and a variety of panfish. Some lakes are easily accessible with plowed parking and maintained access points, while others are tucked deep within the forest, rewarding those who enjoy a more remote and adventurous experience.