Winter hikes in Michigan provide an enchanting experience, turning the state’s diverse landscapes into a serene, snow-draped wonderland. With numerous trails accommodating various skill levels, hikers can discover the tranquil beauty of Michigan’s forests, dunes, and lakeshores. Among the most popular winter hiking activities are the lantern-lit trail events held in state and community parks. These glowing trails offer a magical way to explore Michigan’s Winter Wonderland under the stars, creating an unforgettable experience for families and friends. The softly illuminated paths guide adventurers through the tranquil, snow-blanketed scenery, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature while creating lasting memories in the crisp, winter air.
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WINTER HIKING AT MICHIGAN STATE PARKS
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT
A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for motorized vehicles to enter into state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds and the many miles of trails across Michigan.
Cost:
For Residents: Vehicles $14 and Motorcycle/Mopeds $ 7 (when purchased at the time of license plate renewal. An additional $5 convenience fee is added (except at Belle Isle Park) when purchase after license plate renewal.
For Non-Residents: Annual passes $41, Daily passes $11. Recreation Passport expires on Dec 31st, of the year passport was purchased.
How to get a Michigan Recreation Passport:
Passports can be purchased at state parks, recreation areas, DNR customer service centers or at the Secretary of State outside your license plate registration renewal cycle.
Tips & Tricks:
- The Recreation Passport is valid for 1 year and/or until your license plate registration expires for residents.
- A resident Recreation Passport cannot be purchased online.
- Self-registration and payment pipes can be found at many of the state parks and state forest campgrounds.
- A FREE Recreation Passport can be obtained from your local library through the Michigan Activity Pass program. Find more information here
TIPS FOR ATTENDING LANTERN HIKES
- Check Event Details: Some hikes require advance registration or tickets; others are free with a Recreation Passport.
- Dress Warmly: Wear layered clothing, waterproof boots, and bring gloves and a hat.
- Bring Essentials: A flashlight or headlamp (if allowed), Yaktrax or microspikes for traction, and a mug for hot drinks.
- Weather Cancellations: Events may be canceled due to extreme cold or poor trail conditions—always check before heading out.
WINTER NIGHT LANTERN HIKES AT MICHIGAN STATE PARKS
SEVEN LAKES STATE PARK- HOLLY, MI
Dates: Dec 5th, Dec 6th, Dec 12th, and Dec 13th, 2025
Time slots are: 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm each day.
Location: 14390 Fish Lake Road, Holly, Michigan, 48442
Reservations: RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: Please call 248-634-7271 to make a reservation.
🌙 Take a peaceful night hike through the woods of Seven Lakes State Park, where lanterns and lights guide your way.
🔥 Warm up by the fires at the Dickinson Shelter and along the one‑mile trail, making this winter walk both cozy and memorable.
Learn more about Seven Lakes State Park here!
Island Lake Recreation Area- Brighton, MI
Dates: Dec 6th, 2025; Jan 3rd, Jan 31st, Feb 28th, 2026
Times: Hikes are open from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with lanterns being removed at 9:00 PM.
Location: 13463 State Parkway, Brighton, MI, 48116
Reservations: You do not need to register for this self-guided hike.
🌟 Island Lake Recreation Area invites you to another season of lantern‑lit hikes along the Hickory Ridge Trail. The adventure begins at the first parking lot of the Kent Lake unit.
🥾 Whether you prefer hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, follow the glowing lanterns for one mile to a cozy warming station, where a campfire and hot chocolate await—hosted by the Friends of Island Lake State Recreation Area.
🐾 Best of all, this event is dog‑friendly, so bring your four‑legged companions along for the fun!
Learn more about Island Lake Recreation Area here!
PJ Hoffmaster State Park-Muskegon, MI
Dates: Dec 6th, Dec 20th, 2025; Jan 10th, Jan 24th, Feb 7th, Feb 21st, 2026
Times: 4:30pm-6 pm
Location: Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center 6585 Lake Harbor Rd Norton Shores, MI 49441
Reservations: No reservations needed.
✨ Celebrate the season at Hoffmaster State Park with a lantern‑lit hike and a hands‑on craft activity. Stop by anytime between 4:30 PM and 6 PM to meet an interpreter at the Gillette Visitor Center trailhead, where you can create your own simple lantern. Then, enjoy a self‑guided walk along the glowing path that leads toward the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Learn more about PJ Hoffmaster State Park here!
Ionia State Recreation area- Ionia, MI
Dates: Dec 11th, Dec 12th, Dec 13th, 2025
Times: 5:30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: 2880 W David Hwy Ionia, MI, 48846
Reservations: Reservations Required
✨ Explore the Enchanted Borealis Trail at Ionia State Park—a magical night hike with a festive holiday atmosphere. Wander along a lantern‑lit path and take in the glow of colorful holiday lights that brighten the winter evening.
Learn more about Ionia State Recreation Area here!
Ludington State Park- Ludington, MI
Dates: Dec 13th, 2025; Jan 10th, Jan 24th, Feb 7th, Feb 21st, Mar 7th, 2026
Times: 6 pm-8 pm
Location: 8800 M 116, Ludington, MI 49431
Meet at Ludington State Park Skyline Trail / Amphitheater
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Take a magical evening stroll along a lantern‑lit trail in Ludington State Park. The one‑mile route begins at the Warming Shelter near the park entrance and includes a stop at the amphitheater, where you can gather around a bonfire, sip hot chocolate, and roast marshmallows.
🥾 Participation is free, and if snow conditions allow, snowshoes will be available to borrow.
Learn more about Ludington State Park here!
Mitchell State Park- Cadillac, MI
Dates: Jan 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th, Feb 6th, 13th, 2026
Times: 6 pm-9 pm
Location: 6087 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601
Reservations: No reservations required
🌌 Discover the beauty of the Heritage Nature Trail after dark at the Carl T. Johnson Center, where more than 100 lanterns will light your way.
🥾 Snowshoes are available to borrow on a first‑come, first‑served basis, so you can enjoy the trail no matter the conditions.
🔥 After your walk, gather around the bonfire and sip hot chocolate with friends and family.
✨ This free event takes place as weather permits—don’t miss this magical winter experience!
Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center- Mattawan, MI
Dates: Jan 3rd, Feb 7th, 2026
Times: 6 pm-8 pm
Location: 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan, MI 49071
Reservations: No reservations required
🌙 Experience the magic of winter on Wolf Lake’s nature trails! A one‑mile loop will be illuminated with lanterns and candles, creating the perfect setting for an evening walk.
🔥 After your stroll, warm up by the bonfire and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa.
Learn more about Wolf Lake State Park here!
Van Riper State Park- Champion, MI
Dates: Jan 9th, 2026 ***Special Lantern-Lit Snowshoe Hike
Times: 7pm- 9 pm
Location: 73 Forge Road, Negaunee, MI, 49866
Reservations: No reservation required
The lanterns are on the move! For the very special hike, join the staff of Van Riper State Park and the Michigan Iron Industry Museum for a lantern‑lit snowshoe trail winding through the museum grounds. Stroll beneath the glow of lanterns in the snow‑covered woods, then warm up inside the Museum, which will stay open late—until **9 PM—for this one‑night‑only experience.
Please bring your own snowshoes if possible. A limited supply will be available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Learn more about Van Riper State Park here!
Dates: Jan 23rd & Feb 6th, 2026
Times: 7 pm- 9 pm
Location: 851 Co Rd AKE, Champion, MI 49814
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Plan a winter adventure at Van Riper State Park with a lantern‑lit hike through the snowy woods! Follow the glow of kerosene lanterns along a 1.5‑mile self‑guided loop that begins at the Peshekee River Rustic Cabin, where a warm fire will be waiting inside.
🥾 The trail will be packed, but please bring your own snowshoes. A limited supply will be available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Learn more about Van Riper State Park here!
Metamora-hadley Recreation area- Metamora, mi
Candle- Lit Cross Country Ski/Hikes
Dates: Jan 17th & Feb 14th, 2026
Times: 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: 3871 Herd Rd, Metamora, MI 48445
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Glide through the park on a groomed, candlelit trail for a magical winter evening. After your ski, warm up by the fire and enjoy a refreshment.
🥾 Snowshoes are welcome alongside the ski track, and if snow is limited, the event will transition into a guided winter walk.
Open to all ages! Please bring your own skis or snowshoes, as equipment will not be available to borrow or rent. Dress warmly for the weather.
📍 Meeting Location: North Campground. Follow directional signs upon entering the park.
Learn more about Metamora- Hadley Recreation Area here!
Sleeper State Park- caseville, MI
Dates: Jan 24th, 2026
Times: 5:30pm-8 pm
Location: 6573 State Road, Caseville, MI 48725
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Discover the beauty of Sleeper State Park by candlelight as you follow a glowing path through the campground, Candlestick Trail, and Old Dunes Nature Trail.
🔥 After your walk, stop by the campground office to warm up by the campfire and enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and popcorn.
⚠️ Please note: skis and snowshoes are not provided. Rentals are available at Port Austin Hardware if needed.
Learn more about Sleeper State Park here!
Fayette State Park- Garden, MI
Dates: End of January (Date for 2026 has not been released yet)
Times: 6 pm- 8pm
Location: 4785 II Road, Garden, MI 49835
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Spend a winter evening exploring the 1.5‑mile bluff trail, glowing with the light of kerosene lanterns. Whether on snowshoes, boots, or cross‑country skis, enjoy the peaceful beauty of the trail at your own pace.
🔥 After completing a lap—or more—warm up by the campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows.
🚗 Visitors are asked to park at the Visitor Center lot, where the fire will mark the starting point of your adventure.
Learn more about Fayette State Park here!
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness STate Park- Ontonagon, MI
Dates: Every Saturday End of January-February (Dates for 2026 have not been released yet)
Times: 6 pm- 8 pm
Location: Porkies Winter Sport Complex at 36672 M-107
Ontonagon MI, 49953
Reservations: No reservations required
❄️ The one‑mile loop begins at the ski hill entrance of the Porcupine Mountains Winter Sports Complex. After your walk, step inside White Birch Cabin to warm up by the fire.
🌲 Please note: this route is separate from the 17‑mile Lake Superior Trail.
🥾 All are welcome—whether you’re hiking, snowshoeing, or cross‑country skiing!
Learn more about Porcupine Mountains State Park here!
Tahquamenon Falls State Park- Paradise, MI
Dates: Every Saturday in February (Dates for 2026 have not been released yet)
Times: 6 pm-8 pm
Location: Upper Falls
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Experience the magic of winter on the 1‑mile lantern‑lit trail, open every Saturday in February. Begin at the Upper Falls restroom building trailhead and enjoy the glow of kerosene lanterns guiding your way through the snowy woods.
🎿 Cross‑country skiers are welcome, though no track will be set.
🔥 Between laps, warm up by the bonfire with complimentary refreshments.
🥾 A limited number of snowshoes will be available to borrow on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
🐕 Well‑behaved dogs are welcome, provided they remain on a leash.
Learn more about Tahquamenon Falls State Park here!
Hartwick Pines State Park- Grayling, MI
Dates: Feb 14th, 2026
Times: 5:30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: 3612 State Park Dr, Grayling MI, 49738
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Stroll along the lantern-lit Old Growth Trail and cozy up by the bonfire at the Logging Museum. Parking is available at the Visitor Center, which will be open throughout the evening.
🥾 Don’t have snowshoes? No problem—they have several pairs available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. Depending on weather and trail conditions, hikers may prefer boots or crampons instead.
🕠 Lanterns will glow from 5:30 to 8:30 PM, creating a magical atmosphere for your winter hike.
Learn more about Hartwick Pines State Park here!
OTHER WINTER HIKES AND EVENTS AT MICHIGAN STATE PARKS
PJ Hoffmaster State Park-Muskegon, MI
Winter Walks
Dates: Dec 6th, Dec 20th, 2025; Jan 10th, Jan 24th, Feb 7th, Feb 21st, 2026
Times: 10 am-11am
Location: Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center 6585 Lake Harbor Rd Norton Shores, MI 49441
Reservations: No reservations needed.
🌲 Join an interpreter at the Gillette Visitor Center trail for a guided winter walk through the woods.
☕ Bring along a warm drink and discover how local wildlife adapts and thrives during the season.
Learn more about PJ Hoffmaster State Park here!
Ludington State Park- Ludington, MI
Guided Winter Snowshoe Walks
Dates: Dec 13th, 2025
Times: 2 pm-3:30 pm
Location: 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431
Reservations: No reservations required
🌲 Embark on a guided walk showcasing some of the most stunning scenery in the State Park, winding through snowy forests and sand dunes. The trail is about 1.5 miles long and features gentle hills through the woods.
🥾 A limited supply of 60 pairs of snowshoes will be available to rent on a first‑come, first‑served basis. This program is open to ages 8 and up.
❄️ If snow conditions aren’t suitable for snowshoeing, the adventure will shift to a guided winter adaptation walk, offering a fascinating look at how nature thrives in the colder months.
Learn more about Ludington State Park here!
Maybury state park- northville, MI
New Year’s Day Hike
Dates: Jan 1st, 2026
Times: 10 am- 11:30 am
Location: 49601 Eight Mile W, Northville, MI 48167
Reservations: No reservations required
Start the New Year with a refreshing hike! Meet at the Trailhead Building (8 Mile Entrance) for the 10 AM guided hikes.
Choose your adventure:
A 1.5‑mile hike, perfect for families and those seeking a shorter route.
A 2–3 mile hike, ideal for those wanting a longer trek.
All ages are welcome! 
Dogs may join too, but must remain on a 6‑foot leash.
Bundle up and arrive 15 minutes early to get ready for the fun.
Travelin’ Tom’s beverage truck will be on site with warm drinks available for purchase.
Learn more about Maybury State Park here!
Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center- Mattawan, MI
Monthly Beginner Bird Walks
Dates: Jan 3rd, Feb 7th, Mar 7th, 2026
Times: 9 am-11 am
Location: 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan, MI 49071
Reservations: No reservations required
🐦 Join experienced birders from the Audubon Society of Kalamazoo for a guided outing focused on birding fundamentals.
🔭 Extra binoculars will be available, so everyone can take part.
⏱ The program typically lasts about two hours, but you’re welcome to stay as long—or as little—as you’d like.
Learn more about Wolf Lake State Park here!
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness STate Park- Ontonagon, MI
Guided Snowshoe Hikes
Dates: Every Saturday End of January-February (Dates for 2026 have not been released yet)
Times: 1 pm- 3:30 pm
Location: Porkies Winter Sport Complex at 36672 M-107
Ontonagon MI, 49953
Reservations: No reservations required
❄️ The Winter Sports Complex provides snowshoes on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Join the Porcupine Mountains guided snowshoe hike, offered Saturdays in January and February from 1:00 to 3:30 PM.
🚡 Your adventure begins with a scenic chairlift ride, followed by a two‑mile trek downhill through deep snow. The full experience lasts about two and a half hours—a perfect winter outing!
Learn more about Porcupine Mountains State Park here!
Maybury state park- northville, MI
Full Moon Hikes
Dates: Jan 31st & Feb 28th 2026
Times: 7 pm- 9 pm
Location: 49601 Eight Mile W, Northville, MI 48167
Reservations: No reservations required
🌕 Experience the park under the glow of the full moon! Choose between two guided hikes:
🌟 A Family Hike (less than 2 miles), perfect for kids and those seeking a shorter walk.
🌲 A Longer Hike (about 3 miles) for those looking for more adventure.
All ages are welcome, but children must remain with an accompanying adult for the entire hike.
🐕 Dogs are welcome too, provided they are on a 6‑foot leash.
🔦 Flashlights are recommended and be sure to dress for the weather.
📍 Meet at the Trailhead Building (8 Mile entrance) 15 minutes before the hike begins.
☕ Travelin’ Tom’s beverage truck will be on site with warm drinks available for purchase.
Learn more about Maybury State Park here!
Tahquamenon falls state park-paradise, mi
Guided Snowshoe Hikes
Dates: Every Saturday in February (Dates for 2026 have not been released yet)
Times: 2 pm-3 pm
Location: Upper Falls
Reservations: No reservations required
❄️ Join park rangers at the Fact Shack for a guided journey along a scenic 1‑mile trail. As you step into the crisp winter air, rangers will share insights about Michigan’s second‑largest state park while leading the way.
🥾 Whether you bring snowshoes, skis, or sturdy boots, choose your path and enjoy the beauty of the season!
Learn more about Tahquamenon Falls State Park here!
WINTER HIKING AT COMMUNITY PARKS ACROSS MICHIGAN
Outdoor Discover Center-Holland, MI
Winter Walks (Lantern-Lit)
Dates: Dec 1st, Dec 8th, Dec 15th, Dec 22nd, Dec 29th, 2025
Times: 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
Location: 4214 56th St, Holland, MI 49423
Reservations: No reservations required- FREE EVENT
✨Enjoy a peaceful evening on our glowing sensory trail, illuminated by lanterns beneath the winter sky. Bring friends and family for a self-guided stroll and take in the quiet beauty of the season.
☕ Warm beverages will be available near the Visitor Center to keep you cozy.
🔦 Flashlights are welcome and be sure to dress for the weather.
Learn more about the Outdoor Activity Center here!
Mt. McSauba- Charlevoix, MI
Candlelight Hikes at Mt. McSauba
Dates: Fridays starting Dec 12th, 2025- February 13th, 2026
Times: 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
Enjoy a magical evening on a self‑guided one‑mile trail, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. Even without snow, the trek through the woods is sure to enchant.
This event is family‑friendly and pet‑friendly (dogs must be on a leash).
Warm up by the fire with complimentary hot chocolate after your hike.
Learn more about hiking at Mt. McSauba here!
Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center- Shelby Twp MI
Guided Winter Hikes
Dates: Dec 14th, 2025; Jan 4th, Feb 1st, 2026
Times: 12:30 pm-1:30 pm
Location: 4101 River Bends Drive Shelby Township, Michigan 48316
Reservations: No reservations required. FREE EVENT
Join one of the knowledgeable naturalists for a walk along our scenic trails. Along the way, you’ll explore seasonal changes, discover native plants and wildlife, practice mindfulness in nature, and learn how to spot signs of animals in the woods.
Please dress for the weather.
Event may be canceled in the case of inclement conditions.
Winter Solstice Hike
Dates: Dec 20th, 2025
Times: 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: 4101 River Bends Drive Shelby Township, Michigan 48316
Reservations: Reservations are required. Open to ages 12 & up.
$3 for residents, $5 for non-residents
Celebrate the Winter Solstice—the longest and darkest night of the year! Begin the evening with a presentation on the rich cultural history of the solstice and the many traditions surrounding this natural event.
Afterward, craft your own mini yule wreaths, then join a luminary‑lit night hike designed to encourage reflection and mindfulness.
The night concludes by gathering around the fire with hot chocolate, as they burn the yule log and bid farewell to the old year.
Owl Prowls
Dates: Adults Only ( Ages 18 & up) ***Fridays Jan 23rd & 30th, 2026/ Family Nights on Saturdays Jan 24th & 31st, 2026
Times: 6;30 pm-8:30 pm
Location: 4101 River Bends Drive
Shelby Township, Michigan 48316
Reservations: Reservations are required
$3 for residents, $5 for non-residents
Step into the winter woods with our naturalists as they call out to wild owls—will one answer back?
This special evening features:
- An educational owl presentation
- Cookies and hot chocolate by the fire
- A chance to meet a live owl up close
- A guided night hike under the winter sky
*** Adults Only Nights: Create a quieter, more mindful experience (and increase our chances of hearing owls), this program is reserved for adults ages 18 and older.
Learn more about Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center here!
Chippewa Nature Center- Midland, MI
Winter Solstice Celebration
Dates: Dec 20th, 2025
Times:6 PM-8 PM
Location: 400 S. Badour Road Midland, MI 48640
Reservations: No reservations required
🌙✨ Celebrate the longest night of the year! Roll candles, craft Yule wreaths, stroll the glowing Arbury Trail, and gather by the fire with hot chocolate as we welcome brighter days ahead. 🌲🔥☕
Evening Snowshoe Hikes
Dates: Jan 8th,** Jan 14th**, Jan 20th**, Feb 4th, Feb 17th, Feb 27th, 2026
Times:** 5 PM-6:30 PM; 5:30 PM-7 PM
Location: 400 S. Badour Road Midland, MI 48640
Reservations: Reservations required
FREE | Ages 15+, under 18 w/adult
✨ Discover the quiet beauty of a winter evening as we search for signs of wildlife, admire tree silhouettes, and take in the night sky. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight to light your way.
🥾 Pre‑register and reserve snowshoes online or by calling 989-631-0830.
📍 Meet at the Nature Education Center.
⚠️ If snow conditions are unfavorable, the hike may be canceled at the discretion of CNC.
Learn more about Chippewa Nature Center here!
Greany Grove, Mackinac Island, MI
Twilight Turtle Trek
Dates: Jan 10th, Feb 7th, Mar 7th, 2026
Times: 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
Location: Greany Grove (Behind historic Fort Mackinac)
Reservations: No reservations required
✨ Each winter, Mackinac State Historic Parks—together with the Mackinac Island Community Foundation and Ski Club—creates a two‑mile lantern‑lit trail through the state park. Held one night each month from January through March, this magical trek has become a cherished tradition.
🌲 The journey begins at Greany Grove, a gathering place behind historic Fort Mackinac. Named in honor of William C. Greany, a Detroit‑area scoutmaster who led the Mackinac Island Scout Service Camp for decades, the grove was created by Eagle Scouts who cleared an area among towering eastern White Pines and built a seating area with a fire pit.
🥾 From Greany Grove, the route winds along the Arch Rock Botanical Trail, through the woods on the east side of Mackinac Island, past Sugar Loaf, and back to the starting point.
🎿 The trail is groomed for both skate skiing and classic skiing, with snowshoers welcome along the outer edge. Participants can join each evening, exploring by ski, snowshoe, or hiking boots.
🔥 The trek concludes with a bonfire and hot cocoa, a cozy reward for the adventure.
❄️ If snow is scarce, the lanterns will still glow, guiding hikers through the Twilight Turtle Trek.
Learn more about Twilight Turtle trek here!
Have a winter hiking event we missed? Share it with us and we’ll add it to the guide! And don’t forget to save and pin this post so you can easily find it later.
The soft flicker of lanterns paired with snow‑covered trails creates a truly unforgettable winter experience. Their gentle glow lights the path, revealing the quiet beauty of Michigan’s landscape and inspiring a sense of peace and wonder.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this enchanting journey promises lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for nature’s quiet elegance.
So bundle up, take a lantern in hand, and let the magic of a winter hike guide your way. Until we meet again—keep exploring, and stay warm!
