Looking for a snowmobiling adventure? Come to Michigan’s Copper Country Trail National Scenic Byway when the snow falls and enjoy the serene beauty of the state’s Upper Peninsula region. The byway’s 233 miles of groomed trails pass through thick forests, isolated lakes, historic mines, and logging camps. Copper Country on the Keweenaw Peninsula is surrounded on three sides by Lake Superior and receives over 250 inches of lake effect snow each year. Storms bring inches of fresh powder to the region’s snowmobiling trails, which are always well-groomed from December to April.
The Bill Nichols Trail runs north and south through majestic forests and over three old railroad trestles that rise more than 100 feet above the Firesteel River. Ride your snowmobile through towns like Twin Lakes, Toivola, and South Range as it continues on on the trail toward the panoramic twin cities of Houghton and Hancock.
Snowmobiling along the Copper Country Trail on the Freda Trail Loop, and see a spectacular view of Lake Superior. On a clear day you can see Isle Royale National Park to the north. Riders who travel the Brockway Mountain Trail will feel as if they are riding on top of the world because of its panoramic views of Copper Harbor and Lake Superior. Stop in the cozy little town of Copper Harbor near the tip of the peninsula, which is an excellent place to enjoy a good meal and a toasty, comfortable bed near the historic Copper Harbor lighthouse.
The Stevens and Keweenaw trails, which run from Houghton and Hancock in the south to Laurium in the north, will guide you through historic copper mining settlements and entice you to learn more about the area's rich copper mining history. Magnificent rides through Ripley, Dollar Bay, and Hubbell grace the Keweenaw Trail as you make your way past Torch Lake to the historic towns of Laurium and Calumet. In Laurium, visit or stay overnight at the historic Laurium Manor Inn, established at the height of the peninsula’s copper mining prosperity. Snowmobiling is allowed along the streets of Laurium, so you will not have to trailer your sled. Take advantage of delicious dining and comfortable lodging in this winter wonderland.
The Copper Country Trail in Keweenaw Peninsula is an adventure every snowmobiler should experience. With over 200 miles of nicely groomed trails, welcoming hotels, delicious cuisine, and a variety of scenic and historic sites, this byway is one of the best snowmobiling and winter sport destinations in the United States.
Migratory Birds Year-Round on the Copper Country Trail
Copper Country Trail Scenic Byway Overview