The Central Upper Peninsula offers some of the best snowmobiling around, with shorter drive times and incredible trails right at your doorstep. Nestled just 20 minutes outside Escanaba, The Kingfisher Lodge is your home base for exploring Michigan's winter wonderland.
Start with the Perfect Location: The Kingfisher Lodge
Why spend hours on the road when you can be cruising down snow-packed trails in no time? Our lodge is ideally located to access all the great trails the central UP has to offer. Plus, after a day of riding through the UP’s scenic winter beauty, you’ll love coming back to relax in our hot tub, cozy up in our media room, or challenge your crew to a game of shuffleboard. With space for up to 12 guests, plenty of parking for your rigs, and all the amenities you need for an awesome stay, The Kingfisher Lodge is the perfect snowmobiler's retreat.
Where To Go: Trails To Get Your Ride On
The Central UP is packed with thrilling trails that deliver everything from peaceful, scenic rides to challenging backcountry routes. Each of these trails offers a unique snowmobiling experience, from challenging terrain to peaceful rides through snow-covered forests. They are all conveniently located near The Kingfisher Lodge, making it the perfect base camp for exploring the best snowmobiling routes in the Central UP! Whether you're after long, smooth trails or some off-the-beaten-path excitement, we’ve got you covered, here's our top spots.
1. Escanaba to Hermansville Rail Trail (28 min away)
The Escanaba to Hermansville Rail Trail offers an incredible 25.5-mile ride along the historic Soo Line Railroad. This crushed-gravel trail is ideal for snowmobilers seeking both a smooth ride and scenic beauty. Heavily wooded areas, rolling hills, and bridges with panoramic winter views make it an exciting yet peaceful trail. Easily accessible from Escanaba, the trail winds its way to Hermansville, providing an excellent day-long snowmobiling experience through Michigan’s beautiful winter landscape. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, this trail delivers a fantastic blend of nature and fun.
2. Felch Grade Trail (24 min away)
Stretching 45 miles along M69 near Felch, the Felch Grade Trail is a snowmobiling hotspot that offers a more rugged riding experience. Known for its wildlife sightings and forest-lined paths, this trail gives riders a chance to enjoy the peaceful winter landscape of the UP. The trail’s challenging terrain, which includes sharp turns and elevation changes, makes it an adventurous ride for those looking to push their snowmobiling skills. It’s also a favorite among mountain bikers during the off-season, but in winter, snowmobilers dominate this scenic and exciting route.
3. Nahma Grade Trail (37 min away)
The Nahma Grade Trail is a lesser-known gem that offers 27 miles of fantastic riding through the Hiawatha National Forest. Located just east of Rapid River, this trail follows an old logging railway, winding through pine forests and snowy lowlands. It's perfect for snowmobilers looking for a mix of serene, scenic riding and occasional bursts of challenging terrain. The wide, open spaces and excellent grooming make this trail a pleasure to ride, especially for those seeking a more relaxed snowmobiling experience with fewer crowds.
4. Haywire Grade Trail (65 min away)
The Haywire Grade Trail is a 35-mile trail that runs from Manistique to Shingleton and offers one of the most scenic rides in the UP. As Michigan’s first rail-trail, it winds through six different forest ecosystems, providing a mix of towering hardwoods, frozen wetlands, and rivers. With regular grooming, the trail offers a smooth and enjoyable experience for all skill levels. However, riders should stick to the trail as the surrounding swamps can be hazardous before deep freezes. This historic route promises an exciting and beautiful snowmobiling adventure.
5. Coalwood Trail (50 min away)
The Coalwood Trail offers snowmobilers an exciting ride through a variety of terrains in the Hiawatha National Forest. This 26.4-mile trail is perfect for those seeking a challenging yet scenic experience, with winding paths that take you through dense woods and across open stretches of land. Along the way, you’ll find some of the most pristine and untouched winter landscapes, making it an adventure well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a new route to explore, the Coalwood Trail won’t disappoint
6. Little Lake to Chatham (41 min away)
The trail connecting Little Lake to Chatham is part of Trail 8 and offers one of the best snowmobiling experiences in the Upper Peninsula. This route takes you through a mix of dense forests and wide-open spaces, providing riders with spectacular views and exciting terrain. Frequent grooming ensures a smooth ride, while the heavy snowfall in this region—thanks to Lake Superior—guarantees excellent conditions throughout the season. Chatham is a friendly stop along the way, offering food, fuel, and hospitality.
7. Forest Islands ORV Trail (40 min away)
The Forest Islands ORV Trail is a quiet and remote trail located deep within the Hiawatha National Forest. Spanning 38 miles, this trail is perfect for snowmobilers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Winding through dense forests and open clearings, the trail offers a unique opportunity to experience the wild, untouched winter landscapes of the UP. Regular grooming ensures a smooth ride, while the peaceful surroundings make this trail a favorite for those looking to escape the crowds.
8. Moss Lake ORV Trail (43 min away)
The Moss Lake ORV Trail is known for its challenging terrain and technical riding, making it a perfect trail for experienced snowmobilers. This 21-mile loop, located east of Rapid River, takes riders deep into the Hiawatha National Forest, where the rugged landscape and snow-covered trees create a breathtaking winter adventure. With steep hills, narrow turns, and dense forest, the Moss Lake Trail is as thrilling as it is beautiful, offering a ride that’s both exhilarating and rewarding
9. Garden Grade ORV Trail (50 min away)
The Garden Grade ORV Trail, located in the Hiawatha National Forest, is a beautiful 18-mile trail that takes snowmobilers through some of the most scenic landscapes in the UP. With its tree-lined paths and serene atmosphere, this trail offers a peaceful escape for riders looking to enjoy the quieter side of snowmobiling. The trail is well-maintained and less crowded than others, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil ride in the heart of nature
Snowmobile Trail Resources
For detailed trail information in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, here are some useful websites:
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - This official site offers maps, trail conditions, and permits for ORV trails across the Upper Peninsula. It’s a great resource for understanding regulations and trail closures or openings.
- Michigan Trails and Recreation Alliance of Land and the Environment (MI-TRALE) - MI-TRALE maintains many trails in the western U.P. and provides trail maps, conditions, and information on ORV routes, including the Western Upper Peninsula's extensive ORV network.
- Ride the U.P. - This site focuses on ATV and ORV trails in the U.P., offering interactive maps and trip planning tools for riders. It covers the major trail systems, providing details on difficulty, trail conditions, and nearby amenities.
- AllTrails U.P. ORV Trails - AllTrails is a popular app and website for exploring outdoor trails, including off-road routes. You can find user-generated reviews, maps, and GPS-guided routes for ORV and ATV trails in the Upper Peninsula.
- Trailshead U.P. - This site offers interactive trail maps for both snowmobiles and ORVs, with information about trailheads, nearby businesses, and updated trail conditions. It focuses on tourism and exploration of the U.P.
- UP Travel ORV - UPTRA provides a comprehensive guide to the U.P., including trail maps for ORV and ATV riders, with suggestions for scenic routes, trip itineraries, and seasonal updates for trail availability.
Unwind and Have Fun at the Lodge
After a day of snowmobiling, Kingfisher Lodge is the perfect place to kick back and relax. Soothe your muscles in the hot tub, enjoy some downtime in the media room with a 75" TV and Xbox, or get competitive with a game of shuffleboard or enjoy drinks around the bar. Our spacious lodge comfortably sleeps 12 and has everything you need for an unforgettable stay, including a large kitchen and dining area for your group meals.
Ample Parking for Your Rigs
Other Fun in the Area
Ready for more than just snowmobiling? Try your hand at ice fishing in one of the nearby lakes, or head to the Island Resort and Casino for some gaming, live shows, and dining. Want to stay in? Gather your friends for a cozy night in front of the outdoor fire pit or take a leisurely soak in the hot tub under the stars.
Dining and Supplies Nearby
Fuel up before hitting the trails or grab dinner after a long day at one of these great local spots:
- Freshwater Tavern – Great food with stunning waterfront views.
- The Stone House – A local favorite for hearty, gourmet meals.
- Upper Hand Brewery – Grab a craft beer and unwind with friends.
Need to stock up? Here’s where to get everything you need:
- Elmer’s Market – Fresh produce and bakery items.
- Walmart – Convenient for all your trail essentials.
- Frapps Meat Market – Perfect for grabbing steaks or supplies for a cozy lodge dinner.
Book Now and Save 15%
Book your snowmobiling getaway at The Kingfisher Lodge today and get ready for an unforgettable snowmobile adventure in the Central UP. Whether you’re here for the snow-covered trails or just looking for a winter escape with friends and family, our lodge has everything you need for an amazing stay! Give us a call if you need help planning your winter getaway or book online and save 15% over AirBNB and VRBO.