There's plenty to do during the winter months in the Houghton Lake area. Whether you enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country or downhill skiing, snowshoeing or ice fishing, ice skating or winter festivals, the Houghton Lake area is a winter wonderland.

  • Snowmobiling

    Snowmobiles

    With roughly 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in Roscommon County, Houghton Lake is the perfect stop for the snowmobile enthusiast. It is clear to see why Houghton Lake attracts thousands of snowmobile enthusiasts each winter. With northern Michigan's extensive trail system, abundant snow and exciting terrain, it is the perfect setting for a snowmobiling adventure for all ages.

  • Cross-Country Skiing

    Cross-Country Skiing

    Cross-country skiing is one Northern Michigan’s most popular sports. There are hundreds of miles of marked and well-maintained ski trails in Roscommon County. These include family-friendly trails and more demanding routes for experienced skiers. These ski trails are free for all to enjoy.

  • Downhill Skiing

    Downhill Skiing

    Downhill skiing is a mainstay for winter fun. The Houghton Lake area has two nearby downhill ski venues.

  • Snowshoeing

    Snowshoeing

    Snowshoeing is fast becoming one of winter's most popular activities. Just minutes from your hotel room you will find a wide variety of state forest trails on which to experience the best that winter has to offer.

  • Ice Fishing

    Ice Fishing

    Experience the excitement of winter fishing on Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake and Lake St. Helen. Here you will find perch, crappie, small and large mouth bass, northern pike, walleye, pike, bluegill and more. Shanties MUST be removed by March 15 from all bodies of water.

  • Frozen Lake

    Ice Skating / Hockey

    All of the lakes will afford you the opportunity to skate on the lakes when they are completely frozen. Markey Township (Truman Gardens Park) has a maintained natural ice rink, which is cleared of snow and watered regularly.

Winter Kayaking on the AuSable

Great Getaways TV - The South Branch of the AuSable River is world renowned for canoeing, kayaking and tubing. Only about 1 percent of the summer kayakers will take the trip in the winter. When the wind blows puffs of powdery white snow are sent off of the trees and turns the river into a magical place. So much has been written on this river that pertains to the warmer months but very little is said about the winter time. It is truly a great experience. We advise recreational kayakers that if you would like to try some winter kayaking to get ready for chill paddling by getting: a spray skirt, a change of clothes and a paddling partner.


Annual Winter Events