Cross Country Skiing in Northern Michigan

There’s truly something magical about winter in Northern Michigan and the glistening wonderland it transforms into. As the green hills get covered in frosty white snow, it can feel like you’re in your snow globe when the flakes fly. It’s even more exciting for outdoor adventurers who want to immerse themselves in the winter wonderland scene. 

The best way to do so is none other than cross-county skiing, Northern Michigan visitors! At OTIS, we've watched countless guests discover the newfound joy of gliding through snow-covered trails and taking in all Mother Nature has to offer—even in the cold winter months! 

Want to be the next to enjoy this frosty-fun, outdoor recreational activity? Keep reading for our comprehensive guide to cross-country skiing in our beautiful corner of Michigan.

What is Cross-Country Skiing?

Cross country skiing Northern Michigan wise or not, is one of winter’s best-kept secrets. While downhill skiing is more popular, it’s much more physical and intimidating for the everyday person. However, cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, offers an enchanting experience through winter landscapes that can be taken at your own pace. 

Even better? The activity can be a low-impact workout with cardiovascular benefits and even mental health benefits for the practice of “forest bathing” with the peaceful solitude of winter exploration.

The beauty of cross-country skiing lies in its versatility. You can choose between two main techniques: classic and skate skiing. Classic skiing feels most natural to beginners, involving a straightforward striding motion in parallel tracks set into the snow. Like walking or running, your skis stay parallel as you glide forward. 

Skate skiing, on the other hand, employs a motion similar to ice skating, pushing off at an angle on groomed trails. Both styles offer their own rewards, but for those just starting their Nordic journey, we typically recommend classic skiing for its gentler learning curve. However, as your skills improve, you may grow into a love for skate skiing too. 

Top Cross-Country Skiing Northern Michigan Destinations 

With its vast landscape and consistent winter weather, Northern Michigan is a top destination for cross country enthusiasts and beginners. The Harbor Springs area boasts some of the finest trails in the Midwest, inviting skiers from near and far to enjoy. Ready to strap up and take off on your next Nordic skiing adventure? Here are some top trails to visit, all with unique charm and challenges, and all an easy drive from OTIS.

Nub's Nob Nordic Trails

Just ten minutes from your doorstep at OTIS, Nub's Nob has earned its reputation as a local favorite. The 21-kilometer network of groomed trails winds through pristine hardwood forests, offering a variety of terrain to suit any skill level. 

On crisp winter mornings, you'll often find local skiing enthusiasts getting in their daily exercise alongside visitors discovering the trails for the first time. The trail system is meticulously maintained, and the higher elevation typically ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the season.

Boyne Highlands Cross Country Center

A mere fifteen-minute drive brings you to Boyne Highlands, where 35 kilometers of scenic trails await. The diversity of terrain here is remarkable – you can start your day on gentle, rolling paths perfect for building confidence, then progress to more challenging routes as your skills improve. 

The grooming team at Boyne Highlands takes pride in maintaining both classic and skate skiing tracks, and their ski center offers comprehensive rentals and lessons. The trails here offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, particularly beautiful during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.

Wildwood Hills Pathway

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Wildwood Hills Pathway in the Mackinaw State Forest provides 11 kilometers of ungroomed trails. This hidden gem, situated approximately 30 minutes from Harbor Springs, provides a more intimate connection with nature. 

The ungroomed nature of these trails means you'll experience cross-country skiing in its most authentic form. Wildlife sightings are common here—don't be surprised if you spot deer, fox, or various winter birds during your expedition.

Petoskey State Park

The winter transformation of Petoskey State Park creates a unique skiing experience along the shores of Lake Michigan. Located just 20 minutes from OTIS, the park's winter trails offer an interesting mix of lakeside and forest skiing. 

The relatively flat terrain makes this an excellent choice for beginners, while the spectacular views of Little Traverse Bay provide a stunning backdrop for more experienced skiers looking for a peaceful adventure.

Essential Gear and Preparing for Your Adventure

Now that you know where to go, it’s time to consider what you need to bring for your cross country skiing adventure. The right equipment and gear can distinguish between a challenging day and a magical winter experience. Luckily, if you need more support, the ski shops in the area will be more than happy to steer you in the right direction. 

To start, you’ll need the basic equipment: skis, boots, and poles. Even though these can be rented from local outfitters (we're happy to arrange this for you), it's essential to understand how these pieces work together and how they may differ from the downhill skis you’re used to. 

Cross-country skis are longer and narrower than their downhill counterparts, designed for gliding efficiency rather than speed control. The boots connect to the skis via a binding system at the toe, leaving the heel free to lift—this allows for the natural striding motion that defines Nordic skiing.

Dressing for cross-country skiing is an art in itself. Unlike downhill skiing, where you spend time sitting on lifts between runs, Nordic skiing keeps you constantly moving. This continuous activity means you'll generate significant body heat, even on the coldest days. 

Like any winter activity, the key is layering to stay comfortable throughout the day and activity. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add an insulating mid-layer of wool or fleece, and top it off with a breathable, waterproof outer layer to protect against snow and wind.

Of course, that’s not all—your limbs deserve special attention to keep you going and to stay accessible when you need them the most. The first thing you’ll want to bring your attention to is a good pair of gloves. The best should be warm, yet not bulky, allowing for optimal pole grip control. 

A hat or headband will retain crucial body heat, while sunglasses or goggles protect your eyes from snow glare and wind. Don't forget about your feet—proper skiing socks made of wool or synthetic materials will keep your feet warm and dry.

Beyond clothing and equipment, successful cross-country skiing requires proper fueling and hydration. Pack a small backpack with water or a thermos of hot tea, along with energy-dense snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruit. Even in winter, sunscreen is essential—the reflection of snow can intensify UV exposure. 

Lastly, a basic first aid kit, trail map, and fully charged phone are safety essentials you should have on hand, no matter the type of adventure. 

Beginner's Best Practices for Cross-Country Skiing Northern Michgian

If you’re a beginner cross-country skier, have no fear…our best practices are here to help! Fortunately, cross-country skiing is exceptionally approachable with the right information and introduction. The key is to be appropriately prepared (like you’re doing now!) and keep realistic expectations for your skills or the activity in general. 

First and foremost, while it may seem intuitive, we highly recommend starting with a lesson from a qualified instructor. Most local ski lodges, or groups, will offer group and private instruction classes, which can significantly improve your comfort and confidence on skis before you head out into the great outdoors. 

An instructor can help you master the fundamental movements and techniques to make skiing more enjoyable and efficient. If this is your first time on skis, ever, you should start by focusing on getting comfortable with basic movements. Finding an open, flat area to practice balance is the best way. 

From there, you can begin making small forward movements and learning how to turn and stop safely. Don't rush this process—building a solid foundation will make more advanced techniques easier to master later.

As you build confidence, gradually progress to gentle trails marked for beginners. These trails typically feature wider paths and minimal elevation changes, allowing you to focus on your technique rather than navigating challenging terrain. Remember that even experienced skiers return to easier trails to refine their form and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Where to Stay: Your Home Base at OTIS

After a day of skiing through Northern Michigan's winter wonderland, there's nothing quite like returning to the warmth and comfort of OTIS. Our boutique hotel in Harbor Springs combines modern luxury with thoughtful amenities designed specifically for winter sports enthusiasts. Our dedicated ski storage room features boot warmers to ensure your gear is ready for the next day's adventure, while our cozy fireplace lounge provides the perfect setting for sharing stories of the day's experiences.

Our expert concierge team stands ready to enhance your winter experience, from arranging equipment rentals and lessons to recommending the perfect trails for your skill level. Start your day with locally sourced breakfast from our in-house café, and return in the afternoon to enjoy après-ski refreshments by the fire.

Harbor Springs itself adds another layer of charm to your winter getaway. This historic town, with its picturesque downtown, just steps from OTIS, offers a perfect blend of small-town warmth and sophisticated amenities. Local restaurants serve up hearty comfort food perfect for refueling after a day on the trails, while unique shops and galleries provide delightful diversions on rest days.

The Bottom Line: Cross Country Skiing Northern Michigan Edition 

All in all, cross country skiing Northern Michigan style makes for an unforgettable trip. So does, staying at OTIS, Harbor Spring’s premier boutique hotel with peek-a-boo views of the renowned Lake Michigan. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family adventure, our team can help create the perfect itinerary for your stay. 

Learn more by browsing our rooms, exploring winter packages and special offers, eating and drinking recommendations, and beyond. Join us at OTIS this winter, where the adventure of Nordic skiing meets the comfort of boutique hospitality. Discover why Harbor Springs has become a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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