906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935
Relic Ride 2026: Crystal Falls, MI. Winter Event Guide
Winter in Iron County offers more than fast trails and full throttle riding. On Valentine’s Day weekend, the Relic Ride 2026 brings antique snowmobile enthusiasts together in Crystal Falls for a relaxed group ride that celebrates classic machines, winter scenery, and small town stops along the way.
This informal ride is designed for riders who enjoy the experience as much as the destination making it an easy fit within a weekend that also includes Free Fishing Weekend and other seasonal activities across Iron County.
Planning a Trip to Iron County?
Valentine’s Day weekend in Iron County brings together several reasons to visit at once. Alongside the Relic Ride, the area is also hosting Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekend, making this a natural fit for couples, friends, and winter traveler's who want options without over planning.
Staying overnight gives you flexibility join the antique snowmobile ride, spend time on the ice, enjoy a relaxed dinner out, and still have room to explore more of the area’s winter trails and small town stops at your own pace.
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.
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Event Overview: Relic Ride at a Glance
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Date: Saturday, February 14
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Meet-up Time: 9:30 a.m.
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Departure: 10:00 a.m.
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Starting Point: Trailhead near the Chippewa Sno-Kats groomer barn at Trail 113 & US-69, downtown Crystal Falls
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Route: Crystal Falls → Alpha → Crystal Falls
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Distance: Approximately 20 miles round trip
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Return Time: Around 3:00 p.m.
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Who Can Attend: Members and non-members welcome
Trailer parking is available at the starting location.
What Makes the Relic Ride Different
This is not a high speed or competitive ride. The focus is on showcasing historic snowmobiles and enjoying a shared winter outing.
Riders will stop in Alpha, where machines will be displayed near Alpha Brewery. Lunch and beverages are available for purchase, making the stop part of the experience rather than just a break.
The event is not club sanctioned and not a Michigan DNR event it’s simply a group of enthusiasts riding together.
AI Travel Assistant: Plan Smarter, Travel Better
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.
Registration & Historic Snowmobile Rules
All Michigan snowmobile registration and licensing requirements apply to riders participating in the Relic Ride.
Owners of qualifying machines may choose to register their snowmobile as a historic snowmobile, which carries specific allowances and limitations under Michigan law:
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Eligibility: Snowmobiles 26 years or older, owned solely as collector’s items
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Cost: One-time $50 registration (non-expiring)
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Trail Permit: Not required for snowmobiles registered as historic
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Use Limitations: Limited to occasional use, including exhibitions, tours, parades, and similar group rides
The Relic Ride itself is not a club-sanctioned or Michigan DNR hosted event. It is an informal group ride organized by local enthusiasts. For ride specific details and updates, visit the Chippewa Sno-Kats website.
Where to Stay in Iron County
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.
Helpful Tips for First Time Attendees
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Arrive early to allow time for unloading and staging.
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Dress for a full winter day outdoors.
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Fuel up in advance; this is a relaxed ride, but conditions vary.
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Remember this is a casual group event, not a managed tour.
Check the Iron County Events Calendar
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.
Final Thoughts
The Relic Ride is a reminder that winter travel doesn’t have to be fast paced to be memorable. For antique snowmobile owners and winter visitors alike, it’s a chance to slow down, connect, and enjoy Iron County’s trails in a distinctly Upper Peninsula way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Events, Winter and tagged iron county michigan, Iron County Trails, relic ride, snowmobiling, upper peninsula michigan.
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Iron County Michigan Visitors Guide
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.