Winter in the Great Lakes region transforms the landscape into a vast, snowy playground. For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, this means one thing: it's time to fire up the snowmobiles. With thousands of miles of groomed trails winding through stunning forests and alongside frozen lakes, the area is a premier destination for winter adventure.
Of course, before you can explore these incredible spots, you need a reliable way to get your gear there. Our recommendation: a SnoCaps Trailer Enclosure that protects your snowmobile from the elements, ensuring it arrives ready for the trails. More on these useful trailer enclosures later.
Once you’re packed and ready, where will you go? We've compiled a list of the best places for snowmobiling around the Great Lakes.
Get ready to discover your next winter getaway!
Michigan's Upper Peninsula: A Winter Gem
Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is a true paradise for snowmobilers. With over 3,000 miles of groomed trails, it offers some of the most iconic winter experiences in the Upper Midwest. You'll find everything from thrilling rides and beautiful snowscapes to dense, silent forests.
Marquette
Marquette is a fantastic hub for any U.P. snowmobiling trip. The city is circled by six well-maintained trail systems that offer endless exploration. You can ride for hours and easily find lodging, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities right off the trails. This convenience makes it simple to plan a multi-day adventure without straying far from the action.
Munising
Often called the "Snowmobile Capital of the Midwest," Munising lives up to its name. Located in Alger County, the area boasts 10 trail systems totaling over 300 miles of scenic, wooded paths. It seems like there's always a fresh blanket of snow covering the trails, creating perfect riding conditions.
With numerous lodging options available at various points, Munising is ideal for an extended winter escape!
Paradise
Head to the far eastern side of the U.P. to find a snowmobiler's dream in a town fittingly named Paradise. Hundreds of miles of groomed trails surround the area near the shores of Lake Superior. Beyond the trails, you can enjoy a wide range of winter activities.
Don't miss the chance to visit some of the North's most famous wonders, like Tahquamenon Falls State Park and the historic Whitefish Point Lighthouse.
Wisconsin: The Snowmobile Capital of the World
Wisconsin gives Michigan a run for its money with over 25,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails open from December 1st to March 31st. The state is home to Eagle River, which proudly holds the title of "The Snowmobile Capital of the World."
For a dose of history, you can even visit the St. Germain Snowmobilers Hall of Fame to learn about the sport's legends.
Eagle River Area Trails
The Eagle River trail system is truly impressive, with 600 miles of expertly groomed paths weaving through Vilas and Oneida Counties. These trails take you through the breathtaking Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and past some of the area's 2,400 lakes.
The network extends into the neighboring towns of Three Lakes and St. Germain, where you can experience festive downtowns with unique shops and eateries. Many towns also host exciting weekend snowmobile events throughout the season.
Minocqua Snowmobile Trails
Located west of Eagle River, the Minocqua area offers a stunning winter getaway. Here, you'll find 1,600 miles of snowmobile trails that cross 1,200 glacial lakes and 233,000 acres of public forestland.
One of the most popular routes is the Hiawatha and Bearskin State Trail. This 18-mile trail takes you deep into the picturesque forests of Oneida County for a ride you won't soon forget.
Hurley Snowmobile Trails
For the experienced and adventurous rider, Hurley is a must-visit destination. Situated near the Wisconsin-Michigan border, Hurley is known as the snow capital of Wisconsin, receiving an average of 200 inches of snow each year. While there are groomed trails, the area is famous for its off-trail riding across 175,000 acres of public land.
You can even snowmobile right up to the site of the world's deepest iron mine. A word of caution: cell service is nonexistent, and a GPS is required. Be sure to travel with a group and grab a trail map from the Hurley City Chamber.
Minnesota: The North Shore & Beyond
For generations, Minnesota's North Shore has been a magnet for winter enthusiasts. The combination of frozen lakes, first-class trails, and deep forests along the Boundary Waters area creates an invigorating and inspiring setting for any snowmobiler.
North Shore State Trail
This 146-mile corridor connects Duluth to Grand Marais, but its reach extends much further. The main trail carves a path through the backwoods and cliffs along Lake Superior. Numerous local trails connect to it, allowing riders to customize their journey. You can explore riverbanks, discover frozen waterfalls, stop at scenic overlooks, and ride through wilderness loops.
With lodging, warming huts, and dining along the way, your adventure can be as rustic or as comfortable as you wish.
Tomahawk Trail
If you're looking for a more remote experience, the Tomahawk Trail offers 72 miles of pure bliss in the Superior National Forest. This trail is perfect for nature lovers, as it's common to spot moose and rare birds. The trail starts just outside of Ely and connects to the North Shore State Trail near the community of Cramer, giving you options to extend your ride.
Choose SnoCaps Trailer Enclosures for Your Winter Adventures
Before you hit the trails, your snowmobile deserves the best protection possible — and that's where SnoCaps Trailer Enclosures from Canvasworks truly shine. Created and patented by our founder, Duane Smith, these innovative enclosures have been road-tested since 1993 and have become the gold standard for open bed trailer protection.
SnoCaps are custom-fitted, soft-sided trailer enclosures built on heavy-walled aluminum tube frames for unmatched durability. Their protective skin is made from Shelter Rite fabric — a tough, waterproof, vinyl-coated polyester that offers a matte finish and boasts an average lifespan of 12-15 years.
The result? A cover that's lightweight yet incredibly heavy-duty, safeguarding your sled from harsh weather and road debris.
One of the key advantages of SnoCaps is their versatility. They're easy to install, removable for off-season storage, and can be custom fit to almost any open bed trailer. Whether you're hauling your snowmobile across town or across state lines, you can trust your gear will arrive safe, dry, and ready for adventure.
Check Out More SnoCaps Info
For an even more detailed look at how our SnoCaps Trailer Enclosures work and how to take care of them, take a look at our SnoCaps articles:
Get Ready for Your Great Lakes Adventure!
The Great Lakes region offers some of the best snowmobiling on the planet. From the deep snows of the U.P. to the endless trails of Wisconsin and the rugged beauty of Minnesota's North Shore, there's an adventure waiting for every type of rider.
The first step to any great trip is getting there. With a SnoCaps Trailer Enclosure, you can transport your snowmobile safely and securely, no matter the distance. It’s the perfect way to begin your journey to the ultimate winter playground. So, load up your sled, pick a destination, and hit the snow!
Contact Canvasworks about ordering a custom SnoCaps Trailer Enclosure!