906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935
January is peak winter in Iron County. Snow cover is established, trails are groomed, and conditions are typically at their most reliable. Michigan’s Free Snowmobiling Weekend on January 10–11 removes the trail permit requirement statewide, making it an easy time to plan a winter trip without added barriers.
While the free weekend applies across Michigan, Iron County stands out for visitors who want connected trail systems, consistent snow, and a destination that supports snowmobiling as part of a larger winter experience.
Many visitors use weekends like this to plan a short winter getaway or test a destination before committing to a longer stay. Looking at lodging options and upcoming events early helps you choose the right location and timing for your visit.
Next step: Check the event calendar and plan your visit.
This weekend is part of a larger lineup of winter events happening throughout the season. You can explore all winter events in Iron County to see what else is happening during your visit.
Michigan’s Free Snowmobiling Weekend allows riders to use designated snowmobile trails without purchasing a state trail permit. Snowmobiles must still be legally registered, and all other trail rules remain in effect.
For official requirements and trail guidance, riders should always reference the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
This weekend is designed to:
Iron County is built for snowmobiling. Trail systems connect forests, frozen lakes, and nearby towns, making it easy to plan longer rides without constant trailering.
Visitors often choose Iron County because:
The layout of the trail network allows riders to explore at their own pace while staying close to lodging, dining, and winter events.
Planning a trip to Iron County doesn’t have to be complicated. Our AI Travel Assistant is here to help you build a personalized plan whether you’re visiting for an event, outdoor adventure, weekend escape, or seasonal getaway.
In seconds, you can get recommendations for things to do, where to stay, nearby attractions, and how to make the most of your time in Iron County. It’s like having a local guide available whenever you’re ready to plan.
First time riders
Free Snowmobiling Weekend removes one of the main planning steps, making it easier to try snowmobiling for the first time.
Couples and small groups
January conditions support longer rides during the day and relaxed evenings off the trails.
Experienced riders testing a destination
This weekend works well for scouting Iron County’s trail system before planning a longer return trip.
Make your trip easy by staying right here in Iron County. The Iron County Lodging Council represents locally owned hotels and lodging options that put you close to the area’s top attractions, events, trails, and outdoor recreation.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, attending a local event, or building a longer Upper Peninsula adventure, staying in Iron County means less driving, more time exploring, and comfortable places to unwind at the end of the day.
There’s always something happening in Iron County. From seasonal festivals and community celebrations to live music, outdoor events, and family friendly activities, our events calendar keeps you up to date on what’s going on during your visit.
Before you finalize your plans, take a moment to explore upcoming events and see what aligns with your trip dates. It’s the easiest way to turn a simple stay into a full Iron County experience.
Free Snowmobiling Weekend is a straightforward way to experience Iron County’s trail system without extra planning steps. With reliable winter conditions and nearby places to stay, it’s an easy opportunity to turn a free weekend into a memorable winter trip.
Events, Things to do and tagged iron county michigan, snowmobiling, things to do, trails, upper peninsula michigan.
906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935
906-265-9244
1700 County Road 424
Gaastra, MI 49917
906-265-3611
1257 W Ice Lake Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
800-362-7853
373 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
800-DO-BRULE
906-265-4957
397 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935
906-822-7713
1968 US 141 Highway
Amasa, MI 49903
Iron County is one of the Upper Peninsula’s best kept secrets. From camping to fishing, hunting to canoeing, mountain biking to forest bathing – no matter your interests, the great outdoors and clear crisp air await you here.