Winter Recreation in the Porcupines Mountains Wilderness State Park
Winter activities at the park include downhill and cross country skiing, snowshoeing, camping, backpacking and snowmobiling in the Porkies.
The large amount of snow the western Upper Peninsula receives is regarded by many as both a blessing and a curse, but it is perfect for winter fun. Lake-effect snow and warmer temperatures bring many to this all-natural-snow area. Warmer air passing over the lake picks up moisture, depositing up to 20 feet of powder snow per season. The winter temperatures are often 10 to 20 degrees
warmer than in inland ski areas. The winds coming off the
water are picking up warmth along with the moisture from the
unfrozen part of the lake. Uncrowded slopes and a
spectacular view of Lake Superior make skiing the "Porkies"
a memorable experience. This 60,000 acre wilderness park contains the largest virgin hardwood-hemlock forest in the united States. The Porcupine Mountains consist of a series of undulating, irregular ranges whose slopes are covered with stands of virgin forest of the hardwood-hemlock type, with maple, birch, and basswood on the upper slopes. The Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park Ski Area offers power-tilled runs through the magnificent old-growth forests and spectacular views of Lake Superior. Alpine skiers will find 15 runs, ranging from beginner to expert, accessible by four lifts. Nordic skiing through incomparable forests and a variety of terrain can be enjoyed along the 23 miles of groomed trails. There are three ski-in cabins, located on cross country ski trails, to give visitors a taste of roughing it. These cabins are booked solid about a year in advance but park rangers advise anyone interested in renting a cabin to call in case of a cancellation (906 885-5275). Cross Country Skiing Cross-country skiers get a free lift ticket in their package to access Alpine trails. Two warming shelters are on the trails, which park employees stock with wood. Skiers can build a fire in the stove, if one is not already going. Deer and other wildlife are in abundance. There are trails for all levels of experience from novice to advanced. The East and West Vistas overlook spectacular Lake Superior from the tip of the Porkies. Fresh powder snow off the Lake insures the best of conditions. Dowhnill Skiing and
Snowboarding The Porcupine Mountains now offers Snowcat skiing on Everest where you will find 100 acres of back country terrain that is accessible only by snowcat. Everest Mountain, located west of the present ski hill area, offers new trails and fresh powder skiing. Ride the snowcat to the top and enjoy the fun of back country skiing at the Porkies on these exciting new trails. Tows Snowshoeing Snowmobiling Gas, food, refreshments and lodging are found right on the trail. The snowmobile trail system interconnects with the Upper Peninsula's 2,500 miles of trails as well as Northern Wisconsin's trail system.
An A-frame ski chalet is located at the foot of Hiawatha. This attractive building has three fireplaces, food service, ski shop, rental service and National Ski Patrol first aid. The chalet can be rented by groups for evening use during the ski season. The Porcupine Mountains Ski Hill is now under private management by the owners of Mt. Bohemia near Lac La Belle. Please call 906-885-5275 for information on rates for the lift, the cross country ski trails, and equipment rentals. Season passes available.
Skiing begins as soon as snow conditions permit, usually in mid-December, sometimes earlier. Because it only uses natural snow, when the park opens, it is 100 percent open. For more information contact Big Snow Country at (906 932-4850) or write P.O. Box 706, Ironwood, MI, 49938. Call the Porkies directly at (906 885-5275); fax correspondence to (906 885-5798) For TDD call (906 885-5278), Toll-free 24-hour snow reports can be heard by calling (1-800-272-7000). Phone: 906-885-5275 Lodging near the Porcupine Mountains State Park Porcupines/Ontonagon County map
Snowmobiling in the Upper Peninsula Snowmobiling in the Keweenaw Peninsula
Summer in the Porcupine Mountains Lodging in the Upper Peninsula Recreation in the Upper Peninsula Back to the Upper Peninsula Traveler
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tracks
that wrap around the ski-slope area: Superior Loop is one
and one half miles long; Deer Yard Trail is three miles,
River Trail is seven miles and Union Spring Trail is 12
miles. 
