When winter settles over Michigan鈥檚 Upper Peninsula, it reveals a side of the state that often goes unnoticed: quiet lakeshores dusted with snow, small towns twinkling with holiday cheer, and expansive forests blanketed in white (not to mention the northern lights, which are most visible in the U.P. between August and April).
But now the secret鈥檚 out. The U.P. has been named one of What makes the region so extraordinary? Here are four U.P. winter experiences that you can鈥檛 find anywhere else.
Watch a World-Class Ski Jumping Competition
Not only is the U.P. a gem for winter sports enthusiasts 鈥 it鈥檚 long been a destination for ski jumping, brought to the region by Nordic immigrants in the late 19th century. Currently, the region is a training ground for hundreds of ski jumping athletes every year, including at least a dozen Winter Olympic athletes. Two iconic ski jumps are the Suicide Hill Ski Jump in Negaunee and the Pine Mountain Ski Jump in Iron Mountain. A third, Copper Peak in Ironwood, is on the verge of becoming the largest human-made FIS-certified ski jump in the world, with Phase 1 of construction starting this year.
This winter, catch the 2025 FIS Continental Cup (presented by Kiwanis Ski Club, which was founded in 1939) at Pine Mountain Feb. 21-23. Visit, , and for more information.听
Tour the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum
Ishpeming, about 15 miles west of Marquette, is recognized as the birthplace of organized skiing in America. It鈥檚 also home to the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum, a unique destination for ski lovers and history buffs alike. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of exhibits and displays honoring the achievements of legendary athletes.
From March 26 to 29, the association will hold its annual induction ceremony in Lake Placid, New York, the location of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. There, athletes and enthusiasts can enjoy a weekend of snow tours, trivia, and live music. Visit for more information.听
Discover the Eben Ice Caves
Also near Marquette lie the ice caves of Eben Junction. Typically in December, the caves develop from melted snow runoff that transforms into towering ice walls, icicles, and frozen waterfalls, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. While the hike to the caves can be challenging (particularly after a fresh snowfall), the reward is a unique opportunity. Visit for more information.听
Visit Tahquamenon Falls
Tahquamenon Falls is a breathtaking destination 鈥 even in the winter. The falls, some of the largest in the Midwest, consist of two main sections: the Upper Falls, which plunge 50 feet, and the Lower Falls. Besides scenic views, visitors can enjoy hitting the surrounding winter hiking trails, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway. Visit for more information.听
This story originally appeared in the February 2025 issue of 糖心vlog安卓版. To read more, pick up a copy of 糖心vlog安卓版 Detroit at a local retail outlet. Our will be available on Feb. 10.听
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