22 Things To Do In Houghton That Turn Winter Into A Wonderland
Nestled in the rugged beauty of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, Houghton is nothing short of magical in winter. With an average annual snowfall of 200 inches, the city transforms into a breathtaking snow-covered wonderland, perfect for both adventure seekers and those who simply want to bask in its cozy charm.
Winter in Houghton isn’t just about braving the cold—it’s about embracing the season. From adrenaline-pumping ski runs to peaceful snowshoe treks through hushed forests, there’s an experience for everyone. History buffs can explore fascinating museums while foodies warm up in the town’s welcoming cafés. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Houghton offers an unforgettable winter escape.
Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Houghton this winter!
1. Enjoy Winter Sports at Mount Bohemia
For thrill-seekers looking to conquer the slopes, Mount Bohemia is the ultimate winter playground in Michigan. Boasting the highest vertical drop in the Midwest at 900 feet, this ski destination is famous for its unparalleled backcountry terrain. Unlike typical groomed ski resorts, Mount Bohemia offers over 900 acres of untouched powder, with 273 challenging runs that weave through steep chutes, tree glades, and natural powder bowls. It’s a dream come true for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a true off-piste adventure.
Two lifts—a high-speed quad and a nostalgic single-seat chairlift—transport riders up the mountain, offering sweeping views before each adrenaline-pumping descent. Night skiing is available from Wednesday through Saturday, allowing skiers to carve through the snow under a starry sky.
For those who love freestyle, Mount Bohemia features its own snowpark with jumps, rails, and jibs, serviced by a dedicated surface lift. The mountain also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with 20 kilometers of trails winding through snow-covered forests and past frozen lakes. With an average snowfall of 273 inches per year, Mount Bohemia consistently delivers some of the best powder in the region, making it an unmissable destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
2. Snowshoe Through McLain State Park
Just 12 miles north of Houghton, McLain State Park transforms into a winter wonderland each year, offering 19 miles of groomed trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or new to the sport, the park’s gently rolling terrain makes for a peaceful and accessible winter adventure.
As you trek through the hardwood forests, keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, red foxes, and the elusive ruffed grouse, which often rustle through the snow-dusted underbrush. Some trails follow the Sturgeon River, where the icy waters provide excellent ice fishing opportunities for those willing to brave the cold.
One of the most breathtaking experiences in McLain State Park is the scenic three-mile loop along the shores of Lake Superior, where the vast, frozen expanse of the world’s largest freshwater lake stretches to the horizon. After a rewarding trek, warm up inside the park’s wood-heated chalet, where you can sip on hot cocoa and relax by the fire. With affordable entrance fees and equipment rentals available, McLain State Park is a hidden gem for winter adventurers in the Houghton area.
3. Strap on Snowshoes for Night Trekking
Few experiences are as mesmerizing as nighttime snowshoeing, and the Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition offers guided moonlit treks that provide an unforgettable way to experience winter’s quiet beauty. Available most Saturday nights throughout the winter, these excursions take participants through groomed wooded trails and frozen marshlands, illuminated only by the soft glow of headlamps and the twinkling stars above.
As you move through the crisp night air, you may hear the distant hooting of great gray owls hunting in the darkness or catch glimpses of deer moving silently through the trees. With fewer visual distractions, your other senses become heightened—the rhythmic crunch of snow underfoot, the sparkle of frost in the moonlight, and the occasional howl of a distant coyote create a uniquely immersive experience.
If conditions allow, the trek may include a midway stop at a bonfire, where participants can roast s’mores, sip warm drinks, and lay back to admire the vast winter sky. Night trekking in Keweenaw is more than just an activity—it’s a serene and almost meditative experience, offering a rare opportunity to enjoy winter’s stillness in a truly enchanting setting.
4. Downhill Skiing at Mont Ripley
For those looking for a family-friendly skiing destination, Mont Ripley in Houghton is an ideal spot. Operated by Michigan Technological University, this ski area offers a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs, making it perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
With 24 trails and three lifts, Mont Ripley provides a well-rounded ski experience without the long lift lines found at larger resorts. The bunny hill, equipped with a rope tow and gentle slopes, is ideal for young skiers or beginners just learning to carve their first turns. Ski and snowboard lessons are available, and the on-site rental shop ensures that even first-time visitors have everything they need for a day on the slopes.
For those seeking more excitement, Mont Ripley features a terrain park with jumps, rails, and other freestyle elements. Night skiing is available Wednesday through Saturday, allowing visitors to enjoy an extended session on the slopes under the glow of floodlights.
When the winter chill sets in, take a break at the Alpine Lodge, where you can warm up by the fireplace with a hot drink while taking in scenic views of the snow-covered hills. With affordable lift tickets and convenient access within the city, Mont Ripley is a fantastic winter escape for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy Michigan’s snowy charm without venturing too far.
5. Sip Craft Beers at Keweenaw Brewing Company
After a day of outdoor adventure, nothing beats unwinding with a locally brewed craft beer at the Keweenaw Brewing Company. Nestled in a cozy Northwoods-themed taproom, this brewery is known for its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for both locals and visitors looking to experience Michigan’s craft beer scene.
Keweenaw Brewing Company serves a diverse selection of year-round and seasonal beers, with something for every palate. Their flagship brews include the Widowmaker Black Ale, a smooth and malty dark ale, and the Pick Axe Blonde Ale, a crisp and easy-drinking favorite. Seasonal rotations bring exciting specialties like the Paavola Red IPA, with its bold hoppy notes, and the Snow Bank Stout, a rich and robust winter warmer. With 16 beers on tap, there’s always something new to discover.
The brewery isn’t just about great beer—it’s also a lively community hub. On Friday nights, live music fills the taproom, while big screens showcase local games, making it a great spot for sports fans. If you’re hungry, the menu offers a selection of pizzas, burgers, and appetizers, all designed to complement the brews. Don’t leave without trying a pasty, a classic Upper Peninsula meat-and-vegetable hand pie, deeply rooted in Michigan’s mining history. Whether you’re warming up after skiing or simply looking for a relaxed evening with friends, Keweenaw Brewing Company is a must-visit in Houghton.
6. Visit the Keweenaw Snowmobile Museum
The Keweenaw Peninsula has a deep connection to snowmobiling history, and nowhere is this more evident than at the Keweenaw Snowmobile Museum in Eagle River. Located in a region where snowmobiling is a way of life, this museum pays tribute to the evolution of this beloved winter sport and mode of transportation.
The museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage snowmobiles, dating back to the early 20th century. The first-ever snowmobile was built in Watersmeet, Michigan, in 1924, and visitors can trace the progression of snowmobile design and technology over the decades. From the earliest handcrafted sleds to high-performance modern machines, the exhibits highlight how these vehicles transformed winter recreation and transportation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Beyond the sleds themselves, the museum also features displays honoring notable Keweenaw snowmobilers, championship racing trophies, and memorabilia such as historic gear, old maps, and rare photographs that tell the story of Michigan’s snowmobiling culture. Whether you're a passionate rider or simply curious about this fascinating part of Michigan’s heritage, a visit to the Keweenaw Snowmobile Museum offers a unique glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted winter traditions.
7. Cross-Country Ski at Swedetown Trails
Just 10 minutes outside Houghton, Swedetown Trails is a cross-country skier’s paradise, offering 50 kilometers of immaculately groomed trails that wind through stunning snow-covered forests. With a variety of trails suited for all skill levels, Swedetown is an ideal destination for both beginners and seasoned skiers looking to explore Michigan’s breathtaking winter landscapes.
The wide, rolling trails provide an easy and enjoyable experience for newcomers, while more experienced skiers can challenge themselves on steeper and narrower loops that require precision and endurance. Both classic and skate-ski tracks are available, giving skiers the option to choose their preferred technique as they glide through the serene backcountry.
For those new to the sport, the Swedetown chalet offers rental equipment and lessons, ensuring that everyone—from first-timers to lifelong enthusiasts—can enjoy the experience. The peacefulness of skiing through snow-laden pines and open meadows creates a tranquil escape from the everyday rush. With its diverse terrain, expert grooming, and breathtaking scenery, Swedetown Trails is a must-visit for any cross-country skiing enthusiast in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
8. Go Ice Fishing
Winter in the Keweenaw Peninsula offers some of the best ice fishing in Michigan, with its countless lakes, rivers, and frozen bays teeming with fish beneath the thick ice. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, the region provides plenty of opportunities to catch panfish, northern pike, jumbo perch, and lake trout.
One of the top spots is Portage Lake, known for its healthy populations of walleye, perch, and occasional brown trout. If you’re looking for a challenge, head to Gratiot Lake, where lake trout exceeding 10 pounds have been caught. The thrill of patiently waiting in the crisp winter air, followed by the excitement of reeling in a catch from the icy depths, makes ice fishing a beloved pastime here.
For up-to-date conditions and local fishing hotspots, stopping by a bait and tackle shop in town is always a good idea. Friendly locals often share tips on where the fish are biting, ensuring you have the best possible experience. Whether you set up a cozy ice shanty with friends or prefer the old-school approach of drilling a hole and waiting with a thermos of hot coffee, ice fishing in the Keweenaw is a timeless tradition that captures the essence of a true Northern Michigan winter.
9. Groom the Trails at Maasto Hiihto
For those who love cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, Maasto Hiihto is a hidden gem in the Keweenaw Peninsula, offering a serene winter escape just minutes from Houghton. Operated by the Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club, this well-maintained trail system boasts over 25 kilometers of stunning winter terrain, weaving through snow-draped forests, open fields, and peaceful riverbanks.
The wide skating lanes and classic tracks provide something for every skill level, whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely glide or an experienced skier seeking a more challenging workout. Many of the trails are also lit for night skiing, allowing visitors to experience the quiet magic of the forest under the glow of the moon and soft trail lights—a truly mesmerizing winter experience.
Local skiers and volunteers take pride in keeping the trails beautifully groomed, ensuring optimal conditions for both skate skiing and traditional cross-country techniques. If you're looking for a tranquil retreat into nature, where the only sounds are the swish of your skis and the occasional call of a snowy owl, Maasto Hiihto offers a refreshing and immersive winter adventure.
10. Dine at Kaleva Cafe
For a taste of tradition in downtown Houghton, Kaleva Café is a must-visit. This cozy, historic eatery has been serving hearty, homemade Finnish and American comfort food since 1899, making it one of the longest-standing restaurants in the region. Walking through the doors, you’ll be greeted by warm knotty pine interiors, a laid-back, homey atmosphere, and the irresistible aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling breakfast plates.
The menu reflects the region’s Finnish heritage, featuring classics like pasty (a meat-and-vegetable hand pie), poached salmon, rice pudding, and oversized hand-pressed burgers. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave completely satisfied. Whether you're stopping in for a hearty breakfast, a quick bite after skiing, or a relaxing dinner with friends, Kaleva Café offers authentic Northern flavors that will make you feel right at home.
One local favorite? Their homemade soups change daily. If you see chicken gnocchi or cheesy broccoli on the menu, don’t hesitate—they’re famous for a reason. Whatever you order, save room for dessert; their freshly baked pies and rice pudding are the perfect way to round out a meal.
With its rich history, welcoming charm, and soul-warming food, Kaleva Café is more than just a restaurant—it’s an essential part of Houghton’s culinary scene. If you’re looking for a true Northern Michigan dining experience, this is the place to be.
11. Catch a Hockey Game
Hockey is more than just a sport in Houghton—it’s a way of life. No winter visit to the Keweenaw Peninsula is complete without catching a Michigan Technological University Huskies hockey game at the MacInnes Student Ice Arena. As one of the oldest and most respected college hockey programs, Michigan Tech’s men’s and women’s teams compete at the Division I level in the CCHA (Central Collegiate Hockey Association), facing off against fierce rivals and national contenders.
The electric atmosphere inside the arena is an experience in itself. The student section, known for its boisterous cheers and unwavering energy, brings a level of enthusiasm that’s contagious. The Huskies have a strong history of producing future NHL stars, so you might just witness the early career of a hockey legend in the making.
Tickets are affordable, making it an accessible and exciting event for families, sports fans, and first-time hockey spectators alike. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, a Huskies hockey game is a thrilling, fast-paced tradition that embodies the spirit of Houghton in the heart of winter.
12. Snow Biking at The Trails
For an unconventional winter adventure, fat biking at The Trails is a must-try. This rugged, exhilarating take on mountain biking allows riders to navigate snow-covered forests and rolling hills on specially designed bikes with ultra-wide tires, built to grip icy and packed-snow terrain.
Located just 30 minutes from Houghton, The Trails offer six miles of groomed singletrack winding through hilly woodlands, creating the perfect blend of scenic beauty and outdoor challenge. For beginners and younger riders, a kiddie loop provides a safe and fun introduction to fat biking. For those looking to sharpen their skills, the beach training rollers offer an excellent opportunity to build confidence and technique.
If you don’t have your own gear, bike rentals with studded tires are available, making it easy to jump into the action. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist looking for a new challenge or a first-timer eager to experience winter in a whole new way, snow biking at The Trails is an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping adventure in the Keweenaw wilderness.
13. Meet Sled Dogs at Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge
If you’ve ever dreamed of mushing through a snowy landscape, a visit to Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge offers a rare and up-close look at the cherished tradition of dogsledding. Home to 45 energetic and affectionate Alaskan and Siberian huskies, this kennel is a place where visitors can learn, interact, and even ride with these incredible sled dogs.
Daily kennel tours provide insight into the world of mushing, as expert handlers introduce guests to the dogs and explain their breeding, training, and care. Watch as the huskies eagerly prepare for a sled dog demonstration, showcasing their strength, teamwork, and unbreakable bond with their mushers.
One of the highlights of the experience is getting to pet and play with the huskies—a special moment that kids and adults alike will cherish. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at driving a sled team, with guided expeditions available for those who want to experience the thrill of steering a dog-powered sled through Michigan’s winter wilderness.
Whether you're a dog lover, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about the world of mushing, Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge offers a heartwarming and unforgettable experience in the Keweenaw.
14. Shopping in Downtown Houghton
There’s something magical about winter shopping in downtown Houghton—the crisp air, the historic brick buildings, and the warm glow of locally owned shops inviting you inside. With its compact, walkable main street and an array of unique boutiques, craft stores, and cozy cafés, downtown Houghton is the perfect place to stroll, snack, and shop on a snowy afternoon.
For those looking to take home a piece of Michigan’s artistry, Brick & Mortar specializes in Michigan-made goods and inspired décor, perfect for gifts or souvenirs. If you're drawn to the region’s rich copper mining history, Mined Treasures offers handcrafted copper jewelry and locally sourced artisan gifts, bringing a bit of Keweenaw heritage into every piece.
Shopping isn’t just about the stores—it’s also about the experience. The Library Restaurant & Brew Pub offers a chance to relax with a craft beer or cider between stops, creating the perfect blend of shopping and indulgence. The lack of heavy traffic and the friendly, small-town atmosphere make wandering downtown a stress-free and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re searching for handmade crafts, Michigan-inspired souvenirs, or just a cozy spot to escape the cold, downtown Houghton is a hidden winter gem that combines history, charm, and local creativity into one delightful shopping experience.
15. Visit Quincy Mine Hoist Association
For a fascinating look into Keweenaw copper mining history, tour the Quincy Mine Hoist Association. This national historic landmark was once the most productive copper mine in the U.S. Take the cog rail tram 500 feet down into the chilly depths of an actual mine shaft. Guides explain early 20th-century mining techniques and equipment. Explore steam-powered hoist buildings and see the mining camp village.
The on-site museum has miners' artifacts, mineral displays, and intricate models. In the winter, the steel headframes loom eerily over snowy fields. Quincy Mine provides an incredible first-hand experience into Michigan's copper boom era.
16. Carnival Games at the Winter Carnival
Hosted by Michigan Tech, the Winter Carnival is an annual weekend-long festival celebrating all things snow. Events range from hockey and broomball to ice sculpting and snow statues. Students compete in contests like sled racing down snow ramps, kettle corn eating, tug-of-war, and other wacky games.
The Alumni Hockey Game brings former college players back for some fun on the ice. Sound Off Fireworks cap the carnival with extravagant displays over Portage Lake. Winter Carnival's lighthearted activities and parties liven up the cold months.
17. Peek Into the Past at the Carnegie Museum
Gain insight into Keweenaw history and culture at the Carnegie Museum in downtown Houghton. Immersive exhibits profile various eras from Native American copper mining to the mid-1900s. See recreations of shops, parlors, and home interiors. Study geology displays showing regional rock types and minerals. Learn how early settlers lived through historic artifacts and stories.
Rotating exhibit galleries highlight additional aspects of U.P. heritage, often related to the seasons. The Carnegie Museum provides a meaningful perspective on daily life through different chapters of Keweenaw history.
18. Pick up Pasties for the Road
No visit to the U.P. is complete without sampling the humble yet hearty pasty (pronounced "pass-tee"). This Cornish meat pie remains a cherished regional dish, especially in colder months. Roy's Pasties bakes their pasties the traditional way with ground beef, potatoes, onions, rutabaga, carrots, and seasoning folded into a golden pastry crust.
Stop in to try hot pasties for dine-in or take frozen ones home. Pair the savory handheld pies with Roy's gravy or chicken pot pie soup for a warming meal. On your way out of town, pasty-packed, you'll have delicious provisions for the road home.
19. Stay Amid History at The Fitz
For quintessential UP lodging, book a room at Hotel Fitz, Houghton's picturesque historic inn. Originally built in 1889, the current hotel retains its timeless charm and character. Guest rooms feature exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and period-style decor. Unwind by the large stone fireplace in the Great Hall lounge.
Have breakfast or lunch in their wood-paneled dining room before heading out for Houghton Adventures. The Hotel Fitz's prime downtown location, complimentary breakfast, and exceptional service make it an ideal home base. Revel in the heritage of this one-of-a-kind area landmark.
20. Catch Lake Trout Ice Fishing
Hardy anglers craving trophy trout flock inland to fish Portage Lake once it freezes over. Accessible only by snowmobile or ATV when icebound, this expansive lake produces monster lake trout along with splake, perch, walleye, and the occasional coho or brown trout.
Use tip-ups baited with smelt, shiners, or wigglers near rocky drop-offs, submerged shoals, or sunken islands like Manitou to lure lakers, some topping 20 pounds. The dark winter fishery draws diehards willing to brave the cold in hopes of landing "the big one." Portage sees lots of winter fishing shanty villages sprouting up.
21. Snow Forts and Tunnels at the Tech Trails
The 65 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails at the Michigan Tech Trails double as a winter playground for families when snow falls. The Nara Nature Trail loop is perfect for little ones to romp around in the soft powder. Build snowmen, igloos, or snow caves in the woods. Dig tunnels and forts for hide and seek.
Have a friendly snowball fight in a clearing or slide down small hills. Enjoy a picnic on a snow blanket then warm up with hot cocoa back at the trailhead chalet. With over 40 inches of snow on average, the Tech Trails become an enchanted winter wonderland for kids to burn off energy playing creatively in the drifts.
22. Take in Artistic Performances
Houghton's student and community performance art scene stays robust even as the town is deep in the throes of winter. Beat seasonal doldrums by taking in inspiring dance, theater, music, and comedy.
The ornate Rozsa Center on Michigan Tech's campus hosts concerts, plays, guest speakers, and more. See the newest exhibitions at the Copper Country Community Arts Center. Laugh it up at stand-up comedy shows at the Jam Jar in Eagle Harbor.
Don't miss student productions like musicals gracing the stage at the McArdle Theatre. For affordable performances across genres in an intimate setting, Houghton delivers plentiful options to cure wintertime blues.
Conclusion
With an abundance of snowfall, a unique natural setting, and a wealth of activities, Houghton offers an exceptional getaway destination in northern Michigan during the magical winter season.
Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from an array of sports and adventures that take advantage of the truly spectacular wintry landscape of forests and frozen lakes surrounding this historic community. Families, couples, and friends will also find top-notch eateries, cultural attractions, historic sites, and lively events to fill their itinerary.
Whether planning a quick weekend escape full of snow-covered fun or an extended stay to unplug and recharge as you delve into Houghton's many outdoor offerings, this charming town provides an outstanding winter atmosphere.
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FAQ
1. What is Houghton, Michigan, known for in the winter?
Houghton is renowned for its heavy snowfall, making it a paradise for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. It’s also a gateway to exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
2. What is the weather like in Houghton during winter?
Houghton experiences long, snowy winters with average temperatures ranging from 10°F to 25°F. Snowfall is abundant, creating perfect conditions for winter activities.
3. What are the best snowmobile trails near Houghton?
The Keweenaw Snowmobile Trail System is a must-visit, offering over 200 miles of groomed trails with scenic views of the Upper Peninsula’s forests and Lake Superior.
4. Are there any family-friendly winter activities in Houghton?
Absolutely! Kids and families will enjoy sledding at Nara Nature Park, skating at the Dee Stadium Ice Rink, or exploring the Mont Ripley Ski Area for beginner-friendly slopes.
5. Where can I find cozy winter dining in Houghton?
Head to The Library Bar and Grill for hearty meals with a view of Portage Lake, or visit Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant for Finnish pancakes and comfort food.
6. Are there pet-friendly winter spots in Houghton?
Yes! Some trails at Michigan Tech Trails are open for leashed pets, and several local cabins and lodges, like Kestner Waterfront Park Cabins, welcome pets during your winter stay.
7. How can I get to Houghton, Michigan, during winter?
Houghton is accessible via US-41 and M-26, with careful winter driving precautions. For flights, the Houghton County Memorial Airport offers limited connections to major hubs.
