Winter Sports
Silent sports focus on quiet ways to enjoy the season, with cross-country skiing, hiking, snowshoeing and fat tire biking standing out as prime examples. These activities let you move at your own pace, explore serene forested trails and spend time outdoors enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding & Snow Tubing
John and Melissa Besse Sports Park
Located in Gladstone, this park is home to the Gladstone Ski Hill. The facility offers downhill skiing, snowboarding and tubing, along with a terrain park that includes a halfpipe and snowmaking. Rope tows provide access to slopes suited for learning and intermediate challenges. Snow tubing is available on a dedicated run with a return lift, allowing for repeated runs without climbing. Group tubing outings are welcome by reservation. A ski chalet provides a warm place to take a break between runs, with food and beverages available.
Popular Winter Trail Systems
The trails listed below are maintained by federal, state or local agencies and do not require a trail permit. Donation boxes may be available at some trailheads for those who wish to support ongoing trail maintenance.
Days River Trail
Maintained by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, this trail system is a local favorite. Located off U.S. 2 on Days River Road, it offers multiple loops ranging from short routes to longer outings. A groomed skate skiing track is available. Some longer loops include challenging hills. Snowshoeing is possible along certain sections, though many trails are narrow and can be damaged by foot traffic.
Escanaba West Side Recreation Area
This area offers multiple groomed loops for skiing and snowshoeing. The trailhead includes information about the trail system, and skiers may also use the pathway that loops around the outer perimeter of Ludington Park. Free snowshoe rentals and additional trail information are available through the Civic Center.
Escanaba to Hermansville Rail Trail
Beginning near the U.P. State Fairgrounds, this trail follows a former railroad corridor through heavily wooded areas and extends north into the forested interior. The route includes bridge overlooks and gradual grades that work well for winter travel. In addition to skiing and snowshoeing, fat tire biking is a popular option here.
Fayette Historic State Park
This park combines winter recreation with a preserved historic townsite. Snowshoes make it easier to move through the former iron-smelting community, including historic buildings and kilns. A cross-country ski trail system includes a bluff-top route overlooking Lake Michigan and the cliffs above Snail Harbor. A Recreation Passport or day pass is required for entry.
Bay de Noc Grand Island National Recreation Trail
Portions of this long-distance trail are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The route parallels the White Fish River and extends north toward Alger County, offering a quiet backcountry-style winter experience.
Rapid River Ski Trail
Part of the Hiawatha National Forest, this trail system is known for its length and variety. While one loop is intended for advanced skiers, additional loops range from beginner to intermediate and include some of the most scenic skiing in the area. Skate skiing loops are also available. Snowshoeing is permitted in designated areas. Trail condition updates are available through the Rapid River Ski Trail Facebook page.
Trail Guidelines
Everyone: Check current conditions to confirm trail access before heading out. Yield to faster skiers, snowshoers and hikers. Pack out all trash. Stop well off the trail to avoid blocking others.
Cross-country skiers: If you fall, smooth out dents left in the ski tracks.
Snowshoers and hikers: Snowshoeing and hiking are allowed on public federal, state and local lands. When using groomed ski trails, travel next to the ski tracks.
Where to Get Equipment
Local shops can assist with rentals, replacements and purchases for cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and fat tire biking. They are also helpful resources for trail conditions and route advice.
Brampton Bike & Ski, Gladstone
Cycle City Outdoors, Escanaba
Mr. Bike, Ski & Fitness, Escanaba
Book Your Stay
Plan ahead to make the most of a winter getaway built around silent sports and time outdoors. Book a hotel in advance, map out places to eat and set aside time to visit wineries and breweries after a day on the trails. Check the events page before you arrive and leave room in your schedule to shop at unique stores in Delta County.