Experience Michigan's Paradise: Winter in

Yes, you are right; Paradise brings to mind for many, a secluded sandy shoreline, waves cascading with the rhythm of the surf and tall palm trees gently moving in the breeze. It is winter, summer has passed; fall colors have given way to pristine shimmering crystals of snow.

We need you to change your mental image of Paradise to crisp cool mornings, picturesque snowshoe hikes, and 120+ miles of groomed snowmobile trails inviting you to immerse yourself in the natural winter world of generations past.

Paradise is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan along the shores of Lake Superior. The Tahquamenon Scenic Byway, M-123 is the primary route, only automotive/truck route to Paradise.

Visit the Tahquamenon Upper Falls! The Tahquamenon Upper Falls is one of the most photographed falls in Michigan. With a 50 foot drop and 250 foot span, the volume of water cascading over the falls validates the Tahquamenon Upper Falls as the 2nd largest falls east of the Mississippi. It is breathtaking in spring, summer, and fall, but in the winter; it is a phenomenon. Continually changing and different from year to year it is truly a sculpture of nature.

Ride the Trails! Snowmobiling has long been a very popular activity in Michigan. 120 + Miles of pristine groomed trails, maintained and groomed by local volunteers, Paradise Area Night Riders. Check their website or Facebook page for trail conditions. Snowmobiling is a busy time in the region. Many folks will ride to Sault Ste Marie Michigan from Paradise. Then the next day connect with trails leading west and Pine Stump. That's a fabulous ride along the southern shoreline of Lake Superior.

Snowshoe the Trails! The Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers snowshoes that you can borrow and test your muster. You'll be amazed with the ease of walking on 18 inches of snow, not sinking, and enjoying the sights and sounds that abound. In February, the park often offers lantern lit trails at dusk.

But there are trails just west of Paradise along the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway (M-123) at Paradise Pathways. A local team of volunteers, Tahquamenon Country Pathway Association grooms this trail for snowshoe enthusiasts and cross country ski enjoyment.

Mush the Trails! Sled dogs get very excited to pull a sled. Nature's Kennel offers you an opportunity to mush (guide the sled dogs) or to ride in the sled. Amazingly, the sled dogs are barking and jumping with excitement but once they get a chance to pull; they are so quiet as you glide through the incredible terrain of the eastern Upper Peninsula. Nature's Kennel offers overnight packages and many opportunities to work with the sled dogs.

Embrace the Fireplace! Stay warm and snuggled next to the fireplace with a glass of wine, a good book, or conversation with family or friends. Stop in at Camp 33 and enjoy a Black Bear Stout after a walk to the Tahquamenon Upper Falls.

Take in the Lake Superior View! Whitefish Point is 14 miles north of Paradise. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is closed in the winter months. Whitefish Bird Observatory's Owl's Roost is closed in the winter months, but the Lake Superior shoreline is open and visible.

Places to Stay! This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members: Curley's Paradise Motel, Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise, Paradise Inn (Hotel), Paradise Shores Cabins, and Vagabond Motel. Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.