Winter Sports

The Hiawatha National Forest's winter landscape is beautiful. Snowmobilers will find over 3000 miles of road, abandoned railroad grades, and trails through hardwood stands, pine forest and frozen swampland awaiting them. Enjoy the cross country skiing and snow shoeing trails on the forest.

Cross-country Ski and Snowshoe Maps

McNearney Ski

McKeever Hills Ski

Rapid River National Ski

Valley Spur Ski

Valley Spur Snowshoe

Snowmobiling

Several hundred miles of snowmobiling trails are managed in a partnership between the Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan DNR, and local snowmobiling clubs. For rules and regulations, maps, and current snowmobiling information, visit the Michigan DNR snowmobiling website.

The Forest Service and DNR remind you to always think "Safety First" when snowmobiling. Please follow these safety tips:

Slow Down - speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal accidents.
Always keep your machine in top mechanical condition.
Don't drink. Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction time.
Always wear insulated boots and protective clothing, including a helmet, gloves and eye protection.
Check the weather conditions before you depart.
Never ride alone.
When possible, avoid crossing frozen bodies of water. Never operate in a single file when crossing frozen bodies of water.
Always be alert to avoid fences and low-strung wires.
Always look for depressions in the snow.
Keep headlights and tail lights on at all times.
When approaching an intersection, come to a complete stop, raise off the seat and look both ways for traffic.

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Whether you're a beginner or an expert, a traditional skier, skater, or enjoy snow shoeing, exciting ski trails await you on the Hiawatha National Forest.