Welcome to the Feb/March/April issue of Up North Action—where winter lingers, spring teases, and adventure never takes a break.
This time of year is one of our favorites Up North. Snow still blankets the trails, making it perfect for snowmobiling, skiing, tubing, and ice fishing, while longer days hint that spring adventures are just around the corner. Whether you’re bundling up for one last winter hurrah or starting to plan your warm-weather escapes, this issue is packed with inspiration to get you outside and moving.
Inside, you’ll find stories that celebrate the heart of the Northwoods—scenic train rides, seasonal events, outdoor recreation, and the people and places that make our region
so special. From family-friendly outings to adrenalinefilled experiences, we’re here to help you make the most of every moment, no matter the season.
Thank you for picking up Up North Action and for supporting local businesses, organizations, and communities that keep the Northwoods thriving. Wherever your adventures take you this winter and early spring, we hope this issue sparks new ideas, fresh traditions, and plenty of unforgettable memories.
See you out there,
—The Up North Action Team
events & businesses subject to change. Please contact individual locations to confirm events and/or hours of operation.
Map & Index
NORTHEAST REGION - page 6
NORTHWEST REGION - page 14
Covering the following counties: Florence • Forest • Marinette
Oconto • Menominee • Shawano
NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 8
Covering the following counties:
Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln
Langlade • Taylor • Marathon
Covering the following counties: Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett
Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron
Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa
U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 18
Covering the following counties: Baraga • Gogebic • Ontonagon
Houghton • Iron • Dickinson • Menominee
Discover the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad All Aboard for Adventure:
In the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, where towering pines, winding rivers, and quiet lakes define the landscape, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad offers a journey unlike any other. More than just a train ride, it’s an experience that blends history, scenery, and adventure—inviting passengers to slow down and see the Northwoods from a whole new perspective.
Departing from Spooner, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad travels along historic rail lines once used to support the region’s booming logging industry. Today, those same tracks carry passengers through some of northern Wisconsin’s most beautiful terrain. As the train rolls through forests and wetlands, riders can spot wildlife, enjoy sweeping seasonal views, and appreciate the peaceful rhythm of rail travel.
One of the railroad’s biggest draws is its variety of themed and seasonal excursions. From family-friendly rides and special event trains to popular dinner and specialty experiences, there’s always something new rolling down the tracks. Winter rides showcase the quiet beauty of snow-covered woods, while spring excursions highlight the return of color, wildlife, and longer days.
Beyond the train itself, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad serves as a gateway to outdoor adventure. Located near extensive trail systems, the area surrounding Spooner is a hub for recreation enthusiasts. In winter, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers can access miles of groomed trails nearby. As the seasons shift, those same corridors become ideal for ATV riding, biking, and hiking, making it easy to pair a rail experience with time on the trails.
The railroad also plays an important role in connecting visitors to the local community. Nearby restaurants, resorts, shops, and attractions welcome passengers looking to extend their stay. Whether it’s grabbing a meal after a ride, booking a cozy cabin for the weekend, or exploring local events, the railroad helps support the vibrant tourism economy of the Northwoods.
For families, couples, and groups, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad offers a memorable way to experience the region—one that appeals to all ages and interests. It’s an outing that doesn’t require special gear or advanced planning, just a sense of curiosity and a love for the journey.
In a world that often moves too fast, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a longtime Northwoods local or a first-time visitor, this iconic railroad proves that sometimes the best adventures begin the moment you hear the whistle blow.
Northeast Region
CALENDAR
Feb. 14 Lakewood – Cardboard Classics
Feb. 14 Florence – Ice Fishing Derby
Feb. 14 Crivitz – High Falls Fish-O-Rama, Radar Run & Winter Fest
Feb. 21 Abrams – Candlelight Ski
Feb. 21 Townsend – SnowFest
Feb. 21 Birnamwood – Winter Frost Fest
Feb. 28 Florence -- Keyes Peak Uphill Truck Drags
Feb. 28 Laona – Fire Department Fisheree
March 6 Mountain – Vintage Snowmobile Ride
March 7 Mountain – Vintage Snowmobile Show
March 14 Shawano – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
March 28 Suring – Maple Sugar Festival
Trucks to battle it out on Keyes Peak
FLORENCE — The seventh annual Keyes Peak Uphill Truck Drags return Saturday, February 28, bringing side-by-side racing up the snow-covered slopes of Keyes Peak near Florence. Gates open at 8 a.m., with racing starting at 10:30 a.m.
The event draws more than 150 trucks, from stock pickups to high-powered alcohol and sand drag trucks. Proceeds benefit the Keyes Peak Ski Hill Committee, Blue Ox Trail Riders and the Florence Volunteer Fire Department.
Spectator admission is $10 for ages 13 and up, with free entry for children 12 and under. Food and refreshments will be available on site, along with 50/50 raffles and a $10,000 grand-prize raffle limited to 500 tickets.
Keyes Peak is located at 4960 Hwy. 101. On-site parking is limited; free shuttle buses will run every 15 minutes from designated Florence parking locations. For event rules, visit Keyes Peak Up Hill Truck Drags – Official on Facebook. For more information, call Ray Mills at 715-889-3378 or Brent DallaGrana at 906-396-1445.
Sledding hill and more at Maple Hills
SHAWANO – Take your kids to the Maple Hills Recreation Area in Shawano and let them discover old-fashioned fun sledding there. The small sledding hill is lit for early evening fun.
Don’t forget the cross-country skis and snowshoes, as there are 3 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails and a snowshoe-only trail that is 2.5 miles long. Maple Hills is located two miles south of Shawano on Hwy. 22 across from Maple Lane. It has parking for vehicles.
Silent sport enthusiasts are invited to try these other facilities:
Shawano Lake County Park, W5785 Lake Dr., Shawano, has one mile of cross-country ski trail.
Wilson Lake County Park has one mile of groomed cross-country ski trail. Located two miles west of Wittenberg.
Shawano Lake Golf Course, W5714 Lake Dr., Shawano, has over five miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.
Navarino Nature Center. They groom 12 miles of cross-country ski trails, plus there are countless areas to explore on snowshoes. Snowshoes and skis are available for rent. There is also a small sledding hill. On Feb 7, the Frozen Fun Winter Open House will offer snowshoeing & cross-country skiing, Frozen themed crafts, Frozen games, warm hugs from Olaf, sledding, campfire & s’mores and more. For the events, call 715-758-6999 or visit navarino. org for times and rental rates. The center is located 10 miles south of Shawano.
Feb. 28 Lake Tomahawk – Vintage Snowmobile Show & Ride
Feb. 28 Minocqua – Turkey Ice Bowling
Feb. 28 Montreal – Hygge (Snowshoe) Hike
March 14 Pickerel – St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14 Rhinelander – St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 21 Tomahawk – Taste of Tomahawk
April 11 Phelps – Maple Syrup Fest
April 24-25 Merrill – Merrill Concertina Festival
Reel
RHINELANDER – The 49th annual Rhinelander Lions Club’s Fisheree will be Saturday, Feb. 14, from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Headquarters is the Hodag Park in Rhinelander. Some $2,600 in prize money is up for grabs for the largest fish in multiple fish categories. There’s also a free fishing event for kids 10 and under. For rules and updates go to the club’s Facebook page.
POST LAKE -- The 26th annual Post Lake Ice Fishing Jamboree will be Saturday, Feb. 21. The all-day fishing hours on Upper & Lower Post Lake begin at dawn. No pre-registration is required. The deadline to register fish is 4 p.m. at the Post Lake Improvement Association Building, corner of County Rd. K and Post Lake Drive.
For adults there will be cash prizes awarded for longest fish of each fish species. The kids group will have prizes for longest fish in each fish species. All children will receive an attendance prize. Awards and drawings will begin at 4:30 p.m. Inside the PLIA Building will be the raffles, as well as food and beverages. For more information visit postlakes.org.
MATTOON -- Cast a line and join the fun at the 20th annual Mattoon Sportsman’s Club Youth Fishing Derby! The event takes place on Moose Lake, southeast of Antigo, on Saturday, February 21st. Ice fishing kicks off at 9 a.m., with prizes awarded at 3 p.m. for all youth participants ages 15 and under. Enjoy food and refreshments at noon at both the Mattoon Community Hall and Moose Lake. Bait will be provided on-site, making it easy for young anglers to get right into the action!
Favorite winter trails to warm your journey
RHINELANDER – Give your fat-tire bike or snowshoes a workout on two popular trails in the Rhinelander area. One of them, the Enterprise Trails, is accessible only in the wintertime, so put that one first on your agenda.
Enterprise Trails can be found 8.0 miles south of Rhinelander on Hwy. G. The trailhead is at the parking lot at the Zimmer Road entrance. The 8-mile loop (with a 4-mile cut-off) will take you through the Enterprise Hemlocks State Natural Area, notable for its peat bogs, black spruce swamps and glacial eskers. Many of the hemlocks there escaped the logger’s axe and are now some 200 years old! The trail is groomed for fat-tire biking, snowshoeing, and back-country skiing. Reminder: foot traffic is prohibited except with snowshoes. Your four-legged friend is also allowed to accompany you.
Another winter trail that should catch your attention is the Mud Lake Trails, located 3.5 miles north of Rhinelander at 4963 Crystal Lake Road. This mostly single-track trail accommodates fat-tire biking and snowshoeing in the winter (mtn. biking and running in the summer). The trail system has numerous loops, accommodating all user levels. The 8-mile trail features a gentle rolling topography and includes aspen, pine and hardwood, along with a cedar swamp. This trail also welcomes dogs.
Winter’s Wildest Weekend: The St. Germain Radar Run Roars Back!
When winter winds whip through the Northwoods and Little St. Germain Lake freezes into a sheet of ice, a special kind of magic — and madness — takes over St. Germain. The annual St. Germain Radar Run is back on February 13-14, and it’s gearing up to be the fastest, fiercest, and most fun weekend on ice you’ll find anywhere this winter.
For thrill-seekers and snowmobile aficionados, the Radar Run isn’t just another winter festival — it’s the place where speed meets spectacle. Set on the frozen West Bay of Little St. Germain Lake, this high-octane event turns a frozen lake into Wisconsin’s coolest speedway, drawing crowds from all over who come to witness sleds blasting across snow and ice in a bid for bragging rights and big thrills.
Friday night kicks things into high gear — literally. The Snow Outlaws Shoot-Out showcases professional snowmobiles engineered for speed, flyers that can rocket toward 160 mph in mere seconds. Runs under the lights, music pulsing, and ice shavings flying paint an unforgettable picture on the frozen bay.
Unleash your own sled’s potential! On Saturday, amateur racers take to a separate 660-foot track to see how fast their rigs can go. Fun runs are open to all — a chance for friendly rivalries and bragging rights with friends and neighbors.
At 1 p.m. Saturday, things get wild. Brave racers strip down to swimsuits and race full tilt across the snowy track — a fan-favorite that raises thousands of dollars for Pink Ribbon Riders, a local charity supporting breast cancer patients throughout Wisconsin. The energy is electric, the crowd is pumped, and the fundraising impact is huge — over $300,000 donated since the tradition began.
What really makes the Radar Run weekend special is the atmosphere — part winter festival, part community celebration. Heated tents serve up hot food and cold drinks; vendors line the ice with gear, treats, and local flair; and families, friends, and snow lovers soak in the snowy Northwoods spirit.
Whether you’re chasing speed, supporting a great cause, or just looking for a weekend escape into Wisconsin’s winter wonderland, the Radar Run promises thrills, chills, and community thrills wrapped in snow — and it has to be seen to be believed.
info@livetodayputitaway.org
Explore Price County’s snowmobile trails
COUNTYWIDE – Snowmobile trails in Price County offer riders the best of all worlds. Foremost are the 500 miles of wellgroomed and signed trails that network in-county and with neighboring counties. Volunteers from 10 snowmobile clubs that make up the Price Co. Snowmobile Trail Association ensure the trails are ready when the snow falls.
The uncrowded trails weave their way through the 80,000-acre Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, with notable far-reaching runs on the Tuscobia State Trail from Park Falls to Rice Lake, the Pine Line Rail Trail from Prentice to Medford, including a side trip to the highest geographical point in Wisconsin – Timm’s Hill, and numerous connecting trails.
The pitstops and lodging places mean you won’t go hungry, and when it’s time to unwind at night, a comfortable bed awaits.
In addition to community events, the area’s snowmobile clubs hold raffles and other fundraisers throughout the season. For lovers of vintage sleds, keep an eye out for rides and shows devoted to those old-timers. Here’s one: The “MerCruise” is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 21, leaving the Prentice Travel Center at 11 a.m. From lead sleds to Twisters, all are welcome to join. The group will ride to Catawba (under 20 miles each way) to hang out at the vintage show at Ape Hangers. There will be a social hour at Sailors II in Prentice afterwards.
‘Snowbound
in the Underdown’ welcomes fat tire bikers, snowshoers to race
MERRILL – It’s adventure time in the Underdown Recreation Area – a hidden gem of the Northwoods between Merrill and Tomahawk –for those signing up for the annual “Snowbound in the Underdown” on Saturday, Feb. 21. The wonder of this place in winter is something that has to be seen to be believed.
The county-owned forest will be flush that day with fat tire biking and snowshoe racers on the unique winter trails starting at Prairie Dells. Courses will be well marked. Choose your adventure -- fat tire bike or snowshoe. But if you sign up for both, you’ll receive half off the snowshoe event.
Up first are the bikers with a journey up the Prairie River gorge before hitting the hills and lakes of Underdown for rides of 10, 15 or 25 miles. Six-mile snowshoers will get to the majestic Prairie Dells while three-milers will take in the overlooks of the Heinemania Loop. The sponsors will have Northern Lites race snowshoes available at no cost to borrow for this race.
Fees and start times are listed on ironbull.org or for more information, go to Facebook’s Underdown Dells Project. For more information, email info@ironbull.org.
Northwest Region
CALENDAR
Feb. 7 Iron River, WI – Sled Dog Race
Feb. 7 Hayward – Lions Pre-Birkie
Feb. 7 St. Croix Falls – Candlelight X-C Ski
Feb. 8 Seeley – North End Classic Ski Race
Feb. 12-14 Luck – Luck Winter Carnival
Feb. 14 Ashland – Book Across the Bay, Winter Carnival
Feb. 14 Drummond – Barstool Races
Feb. 14 Shell Lake – Winter Fest
Feb. 15 Clayton – Lake Magnor Ice Fishing Contest
Feb. 15 Washburn – Bike Across the Bay
Feb. 18-22 Cable to Hayward – American Birkebeiner Week
Feb. 19-21 St. Croix Falls – Iceman 300 Races
Feb. 26-Mar. 1 Cable – World’s Largest Weenie Roast
Feb. 28 Chetek – Winterfest
Feb. 28 Cable – Fat Bike Birkie
March 5 Hayward – Lighted Snowshoe Walk
March 14 Bayfield – Mt. Ashwabay Spring Carnival
March 21 Hayward – 5K Run/Walk
March 28-29 Amery – MapleFest at Glenna Farms
April 11 Turtle Lake – Smelt Fry
April 11 Cushing – Spring Bash & Auction
May 1-3 St. Croix Falls – Open Doors Art Tour
Chetek Winter Fest brings out the fastest snowmobiles
CHETEK – The Chetek Chamber of Commerce announces the 2026 Winter Fest is set for Saturday, Feb. 28. The track holds the record speed at 194.38 mph. Spectator gates open at 8 a.m. on Lake Chetek.
Food and beverages will be available on the ice. Saturday’s racing line-up will feature National Straightline Snowmobile Racing, with pro-am radar runs starting at 9:30 a.m. In addition, there will be Kids Pro Ice Racing on an oval track. Other kids activities, some with prizes, will take place. The Bikini Run will also take place.
Trophies, drawings, awards and more will follow the racing at Lakeside Cantina, beginning at 6 p.m. The public is welcome; there is a banquet fee. For more information visit chetekwinterfest.org or the Chetek Chamber of Commerce at chetekwi.net or the Winter Fest page on Facebook.
Flambeau Hills Trail accommodates all skill levels of
X-C skiing
WINTER -- The Flambeau Hills Trail System located in the Flambeau River State Forest has 14 miles of cross-country ski trails groomed for both skate and classic skiing providing opportunities for a variety of skill levels. A trail pass is required for all skiers 16 years of age and older.
With views of the Flambeau River and heavily timbered landscape, this multi-looped trail offers exceptional scenic enjoyment all year long. Winding through a mixture of hardwoods and conifers, the trail crosses three bridges, provides occasional glimpses of the Flambeau River, and has a three-sided shelter, fire ring and picnic spot.
This trail varies in difficulty with plenty of easy skiing in the first loop and the west half of the upper loop. Portions of the upper loop and cutoffs on the east side of the lower loop provide more challenges for advanced and expert skiers. Trail signs denote degree of difficulty: Green Circle – easiest, Blue Square
– more difficult, Black Diamond – most difficult. “You are here” signs are posted at most intersections.
Other trails on the property are open to skiing and snowshoeing, but are not groomed.
South Trailhead at County W: The south trailhead parking lot is on County W, 0.6 miles east of the County W bridge over the Flambeau River.
North Trailhead at Snuss Blvd: The north trailhead parking lot is just off Highway 70 on Snuss Blvd, 1.3 miles east of the Highway 70 bridge over the Flambeau River. A self-registration station is also located at the trailhead.
Afterhours Ski Trail System welcomes all skill levels
BRULE – The Afterhours Ski Trail System in Douglas County offers a perfect X-C ski trail for everyone – with easy, intermediate and advanced options. In total, there are 27 km of well-maintained trails for both classic and skate skiing, as well as snowshoe trails.
The entire complex is located in the Brule River State Forest near Brule and is maintained by state forest personnel and by the Brule Valley Ski Club members.
With that number of trails, navigating the complex may appear daunting. But trail signage is thorough and all intersections are marked. Trails are groomed quite wide. Skiers can enjoy excellent skiing with a bonus view of the picturesque Bois Brule River from the River and White Pine loops.
Skiers will find plenty of parking, a heated shelter and restrooms at the trailhead, compliments of the State Forest and the local ski club. A state trail admission fee (daily or annual) is required of all skiers 16 years or older. Donations can also be sent to the ski club; see brulexcski.com for details.
From downtown Brule, go west on U.S. Hwy. 2 a short distance to Afterhours Road. For more information, call the State Forest at 715372-5678 or visit the above website of the ski club.
You are always welcome at Mt. Ashwabay! Overlooking Lake Superior in beautiful Bayfield, Wisconsin, we have over 40km of some of the best Nordic skiing in the country, downhill runs with postcard views, groomed fat bike & snowshoe trails with plenty of backcountry opportunities, training, races, special events, youth & family programs... right here in your own back yard. What are you waiting for? Come play with us!
Birkie Ski Trail to host two major events
CABLE TO HAYWARD – The 51st annual American Birkebeiner will take place on Saturday, Feb. 21, sending thousands of classic skiers (53 km) and skate skiers (50 km) racing on the storied Birkie Ski Trail. The skiers will take off in waves, the first one at 8:15 a.m., from the start line at the Cable Union Airport. They will finish on Main Street in Hayward.
It’s North America’s largest and most prestigious X-C ski marathon and third largest in the world. The organizers are expecting some 12,000 skiers of all ages and nationalities to participate in Birkie Week (Feb. 18-22) events, including the famed Birkebeiner, the 29K Kortelopet, Prince Haakon 15K, the children’s Barnebirkie, and Junior Birkie. Other fun events include the Barkie Birkie Skijor and giant ski competition.
Switching gears, literally, the Birkie Ski Trail will be the race course for the annual Fat Bike Birkie on Saturday, February 28. Riders can choose to do the Big Fat 47K, the Half Fat 21K, or the Fun Fat 10K. The 47K race starts at 9 a.m. followed by the other two in 15-minute intervals. The post-race party will include live music and food. At the Fat Bike Birkie Expo riders can check out top-of-theline fat bikes and outdoor lifestyle gear, chat with industry professionals, and collect event swag.
For details on all the above events, visit birkie.com.
Amazing sled dogs will put on a show
IRON RIVER, WI – The Northern Pines Sled Dog Races on Saturday, Feb. 7 in Iron River will feature both sprint and mid-distance races, along with weight pulls and kids’ mutt races. Mushers from across the nation will compete.
Presented by the Iron River Area Chamber of Commerce, the races start and finish at the Northern Pines Golf Course & Event Center, 69420 Airport Rd., Iron River. Spectator admission is free.
Mushers leave the start chute in two-minute intervals and race against the clock for a share of the $4,000 guaranteed purse. The mid-distance race will get underway at 8:45 a.m., followed by the Open Class at 10 a.m. The weight-pull is set for 10 a.m. The afternoon schedule begins with the 4-dog teams at 12:45 p.m. and the 6-dog teams at 2:15 p.m.
The mutt run at 12:30 p.m. is open to kids 4-12 years of age using their furry friend to pull them down a 75-foot course. There will be free snowshoeing and sled dog rides.
Spectators can catch all the action from
the Event Center grounds or from vantage points along the trail route. There is a heated viewing area and food and drinks and basket raffles. There will be clothing items for sale and vendors on site.
For more information, and a map of recommended spots to view the race, visit northernpinessdr.com. Arrive early for an opportunity to talk with mushers and see their dogs and equipment.
55,000 acres of lakes. Endless forest. Pure Northwoods adventure.
The Hayward Lakes Area is your destination for outdoor recreation in every season.
March 21-22 Ironwood – Snocross Nat’l Championships
April 25 Norway – Norway Spring Classic
Pine Mountain Ski Jump to host FIS Continental Cup’s high flyers
IRON MOUNTAIN, MICH. – There are only two sites within the United States at which you can take in the FIS Continental Cup Ski Jumping Series, and one of them is close at hand in the Northwoods. The other one is in New York.
Event organizer Kiwanis Ski Club has announced that the Continental Cup Ski Jumping Series, sanctioned by the International Ski Federation (FIS), will return to Iron Mountain on Feb. 20-22. The skiers will take to the skies on the historic Pine Mountain Ski Jump, which was rebuilt in 2020. Competition takes place Friday-Sunday with Thursday, Feb. 19 being a training day.
The annual competition draws well over 20,000 fans to the venue. All classes of records have been set on Pine Mountain, including the U.S. record for the longest jump in World Cup competition at 459 feet, as well as the overall distance record at 472.44 feet set by Clemens Aigner of Austria. The site hosted the World Cup in 1996 and again in 2000.
Food and refreshments will be available on the grounds. Spectators can bring portable grills and tailgate with others. The facility is located at N3330 Pine Mountain Road. Buses are available at Bay College, 2801 US Hwy 2, Iron Mountain to shuttle spectators to and from the Jump.
Whether it’s your first time going to the ski jumps or your 20th, you will not regret reserving a tailgating site. Tailgating sites offer some of the best views of the event. Private porta potties are also available for an additional fee. (Public standard and handicap- accessible porta potties are available at the Popple Palace).
Since the first competitions, buttons have been used as pass for admission to the competition. To help minimize gate traffic and for the convenience of attendees, they now sell admission buttons online. Button sales on-site are higher in price. Learn more about the Pine Mountain event and purchase your admission button online at kiwanisskiclub.com/buttons. Buttons are also available locally at various businesses.
The Pine Mountain Ski Jump is the largest in the United States that is solely used for ski jumping and not ski flying. The 176-foot slide sits on top of a 632-foot hill (a.k.a. Giant Pine Mountain) with a total ride length of 1,032 feet. Jumpers achieve speeds of 55 to 65 mph off the scaffold.
The Kiwanis Ski Club has been presenting world-class ski jumping tournaments at the Pine Mountain Ski Jump since 1939, entering its 87th year now. Spectators will see more than 40 worldclass jumpers, both men and women, from powerhouses such as Germany, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Poland and Austria, as well as the USA. The Iron Mountain event is considered by many as the best such tournament in the United States.
Visit the Porkies for winter fun
ONTONAGON – Take the edge off winter blahs with either an afternoon guided snowshoe hike or a lantern-lit evening trail outing, or better yet, both, when you visit the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park this season. There are multiple opportunities for both of these free outings.
The snowshoe hikes will take place on Saturday, Feb. 6 and Feb. 20, from 1-3:30 p.m. ET at the winter sports complex. The starting point will be the Presque Isle entrance (Corner of South Boundary Road and County Road 519 – use County Road 519 to reach park). You will join the park’s naturalist for a 2-mile
backcountry hike to view hidden waterfalls and old-growth trees.
Hikers and cross-country skiers are welcome to join snowshoers on the Lake Superior Trail every Saturday, Jan. 31 to Feb. 28, from 6-8 p.m. ET. The 1-mile snow trail will be lit by the flickering light of kerosene lanterns. The stars will shine brightly through the crisp clear air (if no clouds of course). You can warm up by the fire at the White Birch cabin during the event. The starting point for participants will be across from the winter sports complex entrance.
For more information, visit Michigan.gov/Porkies or call 906885-5206. While the above programs are free, a Michigan state recreation passport is required for entry within the park.
Winter Fun Takes Center Stage at Young’s Winterfest
Winter in the Upper Peninsula is meant to be celebrated, and Young’s Winterfest in Crystal Falls will do just that with a full day of cold-weather fun, community spirit, and outdoor adventure. Set at the popular Young’s Golf, Recreation & Dining complex on February 21, this annual winter favorite will once again invite locals and visitors to bundle up and embrace the season.
From the moment the festival gets underway at 10am, guests will be able to hit the snow-covered trails with free cross-country ski and snowshoe use, making it easy for beginners and seasoned winter enthusiasts alike to explore the scenic landscape. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere will encourage everyone to move at their own pace—whether that means gliding through the woods or simply soaking up the crisp northern air.
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the day, with a kids’ activity area offering creative winter fun and hands-on entertainment. Young festivalgoers will stay busy while parents warm up nearby and take in the festivities. Adding to the classic winter charm, dog sled and sleigh rides will be featured, providing memorable rides and picture-perfect moments that feel straight out of a storybook.
Inside, the competition will heat up with a lively Smear Tournament, a beloved
Upper Peninsula card game that always draws laughs, friendly rivalry, and enthusiastic spectators. Meanwhile, adults will have the chance to relax and recharge during a craft beer tap takeover, showcasing local brews that pair perfectly with a day spent outdoors.
More than just an event, Young’s Winterfest will be a celebration of everything that makes winter in Iron County special—fresh snow, good company, and a strong sense of community. Whether visitors come for the trails, the rides, the games, or simply the chance to gather with friends, the festival promises to deliver a full dose of classic U.P. winter magic.
Hooked on Winter: Two UP Ice Fishing Traditions
When winter settles in across the western Upper Peninsula, the fishing action heats up. From community fundraisers to big-lake bragging rights, these ice fishing contests offer a perfect excuse to grab your auger and join the fun.
Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department Ice Fishing Contest
The Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department Ice Fishing Contest returns to Sunday Lake in Wakefield, Michigan, on Saturday, February 14, offering a full day of winter fun for anglers and spectators alike. Activities get underway with registration beginning at 9 a.m. at the Wakefield VFW Post 9084, followed by fishing from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as contestants compete for prizes in multiple categories. The ice fills with shanties and friendly competition, while off the lake the VFW hosts warm food and drinks, raffles, and family-friendly activities that make the event just as enjoyable for non-anglers. Proceeds benefit the Wakefield Volunteer Fire Department, making this annual contest a favorite February tradition that combines outdoor adventure, community spirit, and a great cause.
Hog-a-Thon Fishing Tournament
On Saturday, March 14, the 21st annual Hog-a-Thon Fishing Tournament is expected to see a few hundred anglers. Fishing hours are from daybreak to 5 p.m. EST. Entry fee is $35, which includes a raffle entry and dinner buffet at The Root Cellar. This is an open contest with no age categories, says the sponsor, Bergland Outfitters Bait Shop & Motel. The open payouts include $1,500 for first place in the perch category. The sponsor also added a women’s and youth division for the heaviest perch. Cash prizes will be awarded for top entries in other fish categories. For more information, call 906-235-8288 or visit berglandoutfitters.com.
Snow, Speed, and Spectacle: Ironwood Hosts XC Snowmobile Nationals
IRONWOOD, MI — Get ready for high-octane winter action!
The Gogebic Community College Ironwood XC Snowmobile National Championship hits Mt. Zion on March 21–22, bringing top snowmobile racers from across the country to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Riders will tackle challenging trails and snowy hills, showcasing speed, skill, and endurance in a thrilling battle for national glory. The event isn’t just about racing— fans can enjoy the winter festival atmosphere, local food, and the stunning snow-covered landscape of Big Snow Country.
Hosted in partnership with Gogebic Community College, the championship also highlights the college’s winter sports and ski area management programs, blending competition with hands-on learn-
ing. Whether you’re a snowmobile enthusiast or just seeking a winter getaway, this championship promises excitement, community spirit, and unforgettable snowy thrills.
Spectators won’t want to miss the action up close—plenty of viewing areas along the trails offer heart-pounding sights of sleds flying through turns and snow sprays. After the races, visitors can explore nearby Ironwood shops, grab a warm drink at a local café, or cozy up by a fire, making it a full winter weekend experience for the whole family.
Wolverine Winter Challenge: A Snow-Filled Celebration in Ironwood
Ironwood comes alive each winter with the 2026 Wolverine Winter Challenge, running February 1–28 at the scenic Wolverine Nordic Trails. This month-long fundraiser invites outdoor lovers to snowshoe up to six trails, ski a 10K, or snow bike — all at your own pace. Complete trails between February 1–28 and record your progress online; each finished route earns you entries into drawings for door prizes. There is a $30 registration fee. Teams of five or more get $5 off each registration and a shot at a team trophy too.
One of the season’s highlights is the Yooperbeiner, a 5K snowshoe race/walk included with your Winter Challenge registration. Run or walk on groomed ski trails through rolling woods — and if competition’s your thing, the first three men and women finishers take home Yooperbeiner medals. Afterward, enjoy post-race food, giveaways, and community warmth back at the chalet.
When the snow settles and the trails are logged, everyone gathers for a wrap-up celebration. Here, awards, door prizes, and team trophies are handed out, capping off the month of snowy adventure with laughter, stories, and well-earned cheers.
Whether you’re chasing trails for prizes, pounding snow for personal goals, or just soaking up crisp winter air with friends, the Wolverine Winter Challenge turns Ironwood into winter’s warmest party.
FEBRUARY 1-28: Ironwood - Wolverine Showshoe Challenge
FEB 1,7,8,14,15: Ironwood - Theatre North Play “Love Letters”
FEBRUARY 6-7: Ironwood - Historic Ironwood Theatre “Dragons & Drama Immersive”
FEBRUARY 7: Lake Gogebic - Hooks & Ladders Ice Fishing Classic
FEBRUARY 20-22: Iron Mountain - FIS Continental Cup Ski Jumping
FEBRUARY 21: Ontonagon - Porkies Winter Snowburst Carnival
MARCH 13-14: Bergland - Lake Gogebic Yooper Poker Run
MARCH 14: Bergland - Hog A Thon Perch Fishing Contest
MARCH 21-22: Ironwood - Gogebic Community College XC Cor Powersports Race
648 W Cloverland Dr. Ironwood, MIchigan 49938 1-906-932-4850 explorewesternup.com
