TRAILS & PATHWAYS

SNOWMOBILING

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has a vast network of snowmobile trails that crisscross the peninsula through state, federal, and private lands and offer scenic views of the Great Lakes, inland lakes, waterfalls, and even lighthouses! State-designated snowmobile trails are open December 1 through March 31, weather permitting.

04/30/2024 12:00 AM

Trail permits

Some of the trails are shared-use trails and/or have easements across private property. Trails that cross private property revert to private property after March 31 and are not open to ORV use. When there is enough snow, grooming is performed on the trails with many local snowmobile clubs helping to maintain them. Snowmobile trail permits are required and may be purchased online from Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) License Agents and dealers. Visit www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/snowmobiling for more information and to purchase permits. Interactive and PDF snowmobile trail maps are also available on the website, and you may also download data files in KLM or GPX format.

Several snowmobile-related events are held in the St. Ignace area for snowmobile enthusiasts. The Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum Annual Swap Meet September 21 in Naubinway and the Antique Snowmobiles Across the Mac parade December 7. At this event, antique snowmobiles cross the Mackinac Bridge. The Michigan DNR also hosts a Free Snowmobiling Weekend every February when the public can ride their snowmobiles without the requirement of a snowmobile registration or trail permit.

Where to Park in St. Ignace for Off-road Enthusiasts and Snowmobilers

Overnight parking is available for off-road enthusiasts and snowmobilers at the trail head in downtown St. Ignace across the street from Little Bear East Arena and Community Center on Marquette Street. Cost is $10 per day for overnight use. Users of the lot will find a parking pay station on site.

From the St. Ignace trail head, you can quickly connect to the EB Route (St. Ignace to Trout Lake). This route takes you north where you can connect with a series of other trails, including those to Brevort Lake and Newberry/Rexton.