Winter Trails ~ Ski•Bike•Shoe

Check out our Snowfall & Trail Conditions page for current trails and grooming info.

Escape to a true winter wonderland, where an annual 270 inches of snowfall blankets our landscape. Whether on a classic XC skis, snowshoes or a fatbike,  Copper Harbor has a winter trail for you – and they are all dog friendly, too! From December through mid-April, adventures may either explore at a leisurely pace or step it up a few notches for a real challenging workout up ridge-lines with rewarding vista views. Snowmobilers will delight in one of the Upper Peninsula’s premier trail systems with direct access to/from the services of Copper Harbor.

In early 2020, a few dedicated community volunteers undertook an ambitious effort to develop a winter trail network extending eastward from the end of US-41 toward the greater East Bluff area. Through the continued support and dedication of local community members and the Copper Harbor Trails Club, the affectionately named “End of the Road Winter Trail Network” has grown into a diverse 16k network. The majority of the network features a groomed classic track and skate lane, with additional remote trails being tracked when time and conditions permit. The trails are also open to fat bikers, snowshoers, and Backcountry Skiers.

This is a unique wilderness experience with variable conditions, so make sure to check the Copper Harbor Trails Club “Winter Trails” page for links to current conditions and ways to prepare for an unforgettable outing on Michigan’s Northernmost winter network.

The trailhead for the original 9 km of winter trails is centrally located behind the Copper Harbor Welcome Center with ample parking, restrooms and easy access to nearby Food & Drink, Shops & Galleries and Lodging. This trailhead provides access to 9 km to two-way trails that allow for variations of loops and distances. It is a multi-use system regularly groomed by the Copper Harbor Improvement Association, and includes classic ski tracks and a separate lane for fatbikers and snowshoers. (NOTE: Copper Harbor single-track Mountain Bike trails are NOT groomed for fatbiking.)  

This 9 km is an easy rated trail system consisting of mostly leisurely terrain. The landscape is relatively flat and offers a variety of beautiful settings including wooded sections, open meadows, scenic views along the shore of Lake Fanny Hooe and several glimpses of grand Lake Superior. Maps are available at the Gas Lite General Store.