#1. Sky Bridge at Boyne Mountain Resort

Have you heard about Michigan’s “second bridge”? Of course, the first one is the Mackinac Bridge that connects our two peninsulas, but now we have a second one. It is actually the world’s longest timbered-towered suspension bridge! This bridge is located at our favorite ski resort, Boyne Mountain. This pedestrian bridge offers panoramic valley views with light displays. Since it is open year round, every beautiful Michigan season will be on full display from the bridge. To get to the bridge, you have to take a ski lift up to the destination of the bridge which is constructed between the peaks of McLouth to Disciples Ridge. The bridge is 1,200 feet long and 118 feet high.

Northwest Michigan is a destination like no other, and we are right in the center of it all! Boyne Mountain is only 19 minutes from us, and we are thrilled to have this bridge and the ski resort so close to The House on the Hill B & B. You have to check this bridge out! Here is how you can plan your day. Enjoy our three course breakfast, head out to the mountain, take the chair lift, walk the bridge, take a million pictures, and finally, dine at Forty Acres Tavern right at the foot of the mountain. Sounds like the perfect day.

#2. Snowshoe Hike on the Jordan Valley Pathway

The Jordan Valley River Pathway is an excellent place to wander the woods and snowshoe. Snowmobiles have a separate path, so you can really enjoy this silent sport and take in the wonder of the winter in Northwest Michigan. 

You can access the trail at Deadman’s Hill in Elmira. This trail takes you up on a 300 foot scenic hill that allows you to admire the scenery below. This scenic hill alone is worth the hike. The trails are well-marked with blue blazes painted on the trees.

#3. Skiing at Boyne Mountain Resorts

We’ve already mentioned this resort for the Sky Bridge, but, of course, this resort is known for its skiing. With many hills available, both easy or challenging, Boyne Mountain Resort is well worth the visit if you are a skier. Not a skier? The Solace Spa is available to you for massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. 

#4. Frostbite Trail

From Charlevoix to Elk Rapids, there is a new event that offers a winter cask, flask, and fork experience. This experience gives you a drink tasting and a small bite for $10 per person one Saturday a month starting January 14, February 11th and March 11th from 1-6 p.m. The local wineries participating are Lost Cellars, Biers Inwood Brewery, Cellar 1914, Torch Lake Cellars, Waterfire Vineyards (our favorite), Short’s Brewery, BOS Wine and Townline Ciderworks. This is worth checking out!

#5. Candlelight Hike on Mt. McSauba (Charlevoix)

On Friday nights in the winter, you can go to our local ski hill, Mt. McSauba and follow lit bags with candles that meander down through the dunes to Lake Michigan and then along the lake. There is nothing like hearing the waves crash onto the shoreline in the winter. There is a fire pit set up at the top of the hike for you to warm up and drink hot cocoa. So magical!

As you can see, Northwest Michigan has something for everyone in the winter. Come see for yourself and be an explorer!