Whether you’re all about cozy days by the fire or gearing up to brave the chilly outdoors, we’ve got two ways to experience winter in Manistee County: inside and outside! Manistee County is your go-to winter destination, packed with fun ideas to make the most of the season. From indoor dining with warm drinks to thrilling outdoor adventures and frosty activities, we’ll keep the winter blues at bay and help you make memories to last all year.
So grab your gear (or your snow boots!) and let’s dive into winter!

FISHING: Winter fishing is an absolute blast! Picture this: The world around you is quiet, wrapped in a blanket of snow, and you’re out on the frozen lake, bundled up and ready for the catch of the season. The crisp air keeps you on your toes, and there’s something magical about watching the sunrise over a frosty horizon.

Ice fishing on Bear Lake has its own special thrill as you drill into the ice, set up your line and wait in peaceful anticipation. The camaraderie is unbeatable — whether you’re out with friends or chatting with fellow anglers nearby, there’s a sense of shared adventure that makes every catch feel like a victory.

Winter fishing isn’t just about the fish; it’s about embracing the cold and finding fun in the beauty of the season. And you can do that from a frozen lake or from the river.

SKIING: Cross-country and alpine skiing in Michigan is winter fun at its finest. Manistee County’s snow-covered landscapes offer stunning trails for cross-country skiing that wind through peaceful forests and glistening fields, making every glide feel like an escape into nature.

You’ll find a mix of gentle paths for beginners and more challenging routes for seasoned skiers at the Big M, so there’s something for everyone.

On the alpine side, two nearby ski resorts — Caberfae Peaks and Crystal Mountain — have cozy yet thrilling vibes, with runs that vary from easy-going to adrenaline-pumping. And after a day on the snow, there’s nothing better than kicking back at a rustic lodge with hot cocoa or a local brew, chatting with fellow skiers and swapping stories.

Manistee County winter skiing has it all: adventure, beauty and plenty of fun!

HIKING/SNOWSHOEING: Winter hiking and snowshoeing in Manistee County are pure magic. As you step onto a snowy trail, it feels like you’ve entered a serene winter wonderland, with towering pines blanketed in snow and frosty lakes peeking through the trees.

Manistee County’s trails range from easy strolls to more intense hikes, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to snowshoeing. Snowshoeing is especially fun because it lets you go off the beaten path, exploring the quieter parts of the Manistee Forest where only a few tracks can be seen. Every step has a quiet crunch that adds to the peaceful atmosphere, and you may even spot winter wildlife like deer or foxes along the way. With the crisp air and the snow glistening around you, winter hiking in Michigan is an invigorating adventure that lets you see nature in a whole new light.

Check out the Big M or Manistee National for the best tracks and hikes.

FANTASTIC FOODS: Finding a cozy Manistee County restaurant in winter is one of the season’s best treats! There’s something comforting about stepping inside from the cold, the warm air wrapping around you as you shed your coat and settle into a snug, inviting atmosphere.

Winter menus are often packed with comfort food classics, like creamy soups, slow-cooked stews and rich desserts (and cocktails!) that warm you from the inside out.

Whether you’re meeting friends, sharing a romantic evening, or just enjoying a quiet meal alone, these cozy winter restaurants make you feel like you’re part of a little winter retreat. Pair it with a hot drink or a glass of wine, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for unwinding on a chilly day!

Current favorites in Manistee County and surrounding areas for good food and cool drinks are TJ’s Pub (Manistee), The Golden Stag (Manistee), Bluefish Kitchen+Bar (Manistee), Grille 44 (Bear Lake), Rosie’s (Bear Lake), The Painted Lady Saloon (Manistee), Bungalow (Manistee), The Jailhouse (Manistee), Geno’s (Thompsonville), Iron Fish Distillery (Thompsonville).

SLEIGHBELL PARADE: The Victorian Sleighbell Parade every first Saturday in December is like stepping back in time to a wintery wonderland! Imagine the joyful sound of jingling bells as horses pull decorated sleighs down historic River Street, lined with charming buildings all lit up for the holidays. Everyone’s bundled up in cozy scarves and mittens, sipping hot cocoa or cider as they watch parade entries and shop clerks in period costumes, bringing the 1800s to life.

There’s caroling, festive music, chestnuts and sometimes even a little snowfall to add to the magic. The air is filled with laughter, nostalgia and a special holiday warmth that makes you feel like you’re part of a classic Christmas story.

FAT BIKING: Fat tire biking in winter is an exhilarating way to take on the snow. With oversized tires that grip even the most slippery trails, fat biking lets you experience the thrill of mountain biking even when the world is covered in snow. Imagine pedaling through snow-dusted Big M in the Manistee National Forest, feeling the cold air on your face as you tackle hills and twisty trails. It’s a great workout, too — keeping you warm and energized as you navigate the unique challenges of winter terrain.

Fat tire biking is both peaceful and adventurous, perfect for solo riders seeking solitude or friends looking for a memorable day out. Plus, there’s something extra rewarding about completing a snowy ride and warming up afterward with a hot drink, knowing you conquered the cold!

HISTORY AND ARTS: Catching a movie, a play or visiting a museum in winter is the perfect cozy escape from the cold. When it’s chilly outside, there’s nothing better than settling into a theater with buttery popcorn to enjoy a film, or wandering through the warm, art-filled rooms of a museum. Check out The Vogue Theatre for that.

Checking out art or a play, on the other hand, allows you to explore history or art while staying snug indoors. Plus, they’re usually quieter in the winter, which gives you a chance to truly soak up the exhibits. The Ramsdell Theatre and the Manistee County Historical Museum will lift your soul on a winter day.

DARK SKY VIEWS: Experiencing a dark sky in winter is pure magic! With the crisp, clear air, winter nights offer some of the best stargazing you’ll ever find — stars shine brighter, constellations appear sharper and the entire sky feels more alive.

Bundle up in warm layers, grab a thermos of hot cocoa and step outside to see a sky dotted with countless stars and maybe even a planet or two! If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Milky Way stretching over Lake Michigan or the Big Manistee River, or the elusive Northern Lights dancing in vibrant colors over Portage Lake in Onekama.

The quiet of winter enhances the experience, adding a peaceful, almost surreal quality to the night. Being under a vast, starry sky in winter reminds you of the beauty and mystery of the universe, and it’s an unforgettable way to appreciate the season.

LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT: Little River Casino Resort offers a variety of activities and amenities year-round, including during the winter months. In winter, it can be a great place to visit, whether you’re looking for gaming excitement, delicious dining options, or live events!

The resort features a spa, offering services like massages and facials, which can be especially relaxing after a winter day of activities. It’s a perfect way to unwind in a cozy atmosphere.