How2Day: Snowmobile Trails in Southern Michigan

Visit Michigan's extensive network of snowmobiling trails. snowmobile image by Kelly Kane from Fotolia.com
Visit southern Michigan for a winter getaway. The state has numerous interconnected snowmobile trails and abundant and dependable snow. Michigan is one of only three states that maintain an extensive system of interconnected snowmobile trails in the U.S. Pack your gear and head to the snow trails to experience the thrill of soaring through powder in the lower peninsula of Michigan.

Take your snowmobile to the scenic multipurpose Musketawa Trail in Muskegon County. This four-season trail is located at the southwestern lower peninsula of the state and travels through Muskegon and Ottawa counties, with its east end situated near the Grand Rapids. Enjoy about 25 miles of snowy terrain that passes through Conklin and Ravenna with a width of 12 feet and a gravel shoulder of 4 to 8 feet. The Musketawa Trail runs through various small towns, woodlands and farmlands. As this is a multipurpose trail, watch out for other users such as cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

Visit this trail in Wexford County and ride snow trails through the cities of Cadillac and Wellston. Snowmobile riders can access the parking lot at the trailhead and use facilities along the way for water and restrooms. If going on multiple-day excursions, stop by nearby recreation areas like the Hemlock Campground and Caberfae Overlook. The trail is open from December to March, depending on weather conditions. To get to the west trailhead, travel west on M-55 and make a left on 33 Mile Road. After 2 miles, the site will be on the right. The Cadillac West Trail head has parking for 20 vehicles and can accommodate vehicles with trailers.

Island Lake State Recreation Area is located in Brighton, in the southeastern part of Michigan. The area spans almost 4,000 acres with terrains of open brushland, hardwood forest and open meadow. Snowmobiling trails are maintained during winter, including the 9-mile Island Lake West blue loop and the 5-mile Island Lake East yellow loop trails. Other activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.

How2Day