We all know that Michigan is especially beautiful during and after a peaceful snow. No matter how many times you experience it, there’s something undeniably majestic about watching flurries fall from the sky as they coat everything in sight. Michigan is also home to plenty of natural wonders that transform into pure icy magic during the wintertime. Come along as we explore these 10 gorgeous, frozen natural wonders in Michigan that you simply have to see to believe!

1. Grand Island Ice Caves

Grand Island Ice Caves, Munising, MI 49862, USA
TripAdvisor/mmrtks
The Grand Island Ice Caves just off the coast of Munising will completely astound you this winter. Marvel at the blue and white hues of massive icicles and venture into the caves for an unforgettable experience.

2. Holland State Park

Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground, 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA
Rachel Kramer/Flickr
There’s something simply magical about experiencing Lake Michigan in all its frozen splendor, and Holland State Park is the perfect place to do so. Walk along the icy tundra and (carefully) admire the snowy pier.

3. Tahquamenon Falls

Tahquamenon Falls, McMillan Township, MI 49768, USA
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
No matter when you visit, the Tahquamenon Falls are one of Michigan’s most beloved natural wonders. But the falls are uniquely gorgeous during the winter months, when their waters freeze mid-flow.

4. Eben Ice Caves

Eben Ice Caves Trailhead, Frey Rd, Deerton, MI 49822, USA
Facebook/Eben Ice Caves
The Eben Ice Caves in the Hiawatha National Forest are formed by massive icicles, some of which reach lengths of 60 feet. Take the beautiful hike to the caves and don't forget your camera — this is an incredibly unique experience.

5. South Haven Pier

South Haven South Pier Lighthouse, 355 Hubbard St, South Haven, MI 49090, USA
Flickr/Tom Gill
Make sure to bundle up and invest in some non-slip boots before you explore the lovely South Haven Pier frozen wonderland on Lake Michigan. Icicles and snow piles give this walkway a truly otherworldly feel.

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6. St. Clair River

River Road, River Rd, St Clair, MI, USA
Flickr/kristy
Stop in Port Huron and watch as chunks of frozen ice float peacefully under the Blue Water Bridge. There’s something undeniably calming about admiring the icy freshwater of the St. Clair River as it freezes over.

7. St. Joseph Lighthouse

Lighthouse Point, 320 Lake St, St Joseph, MI 49085, USA
Flickr/Tom Gill
This landmark on the shores of Lake Michigan transforms during the snowy season, when it’s dressed from head to toe in icicles and piles of snow. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think you were exploring a sci-fi landscape. Its truly one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan.

8. Detroit River

Detroit Riverwalk, Detroit, MI, USA
Flickr/Duško Pilić
Take a stroll along the Detroit Riverfront and look at the frigid waters that surround you. Make sure to bundle up as you venture out for this walk — it certainly does get cold in "the D!"

9. Straits of Mackinac

Straits of Mackinac, Michigan, USA
Flickr/Charles Dawley
Before making your trip north for some stunning Upper Peninsula winter beauty, make sure to stop and admire the frozen Straits of Mackinac. With the Mackinac Bridge in the distance and a seemingly endless tundra before you, you’ll feel as though you’re living in a fairy tale.

10. Memorial Falls

Memorial Falls, Munising, MI 49862, USA
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
If you’re a fan of winter hiking, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising is the place to be. While you’re in town, stop by Memorial Falls for a charming walk to this one-of-a-kind natural wonder.

So, if someone were to ask you, “What is winter in Michigan like?” you could just send them to see these natural wonders in Michigan!

Have you had a chance to explore any of Michigan’s frozen natural wonders? What other ideas do you have for some of the best things to do outside in Michigan during the winter? Share photos from your icy expeditions in the comment section below!

A lot of outdoor enthusiasts love to go camping. If you’d like to try it in an RV but don’t have one, visit RVShare. And whether you are new to RVing or are a seasoned pro, here are some great RV tips for your next adventure.

If you’re still in the mood for more Michigan adventures, take a look at this video about the Haunted Felt Mansion:

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More to Explore

More Michigan Adventures

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | December 06, 2023

Where can we find the best restaurants in Michigan?

  • The Whitney in Detroit is set within a former lumber baron’s house and is one of the most romantic restaurants in the state.
  • The Curragh Irish Pub in Holland serves up traditional Irish fare with a contemporary twist.
  • The White Horse Inn located in Metamora dates back to the mid-1800s and serves up some of the best comfort foods.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful restaurants in Michigan.

Where can we go for a weekend getaway in Michigan?

  • Holland has beaches, is the home of beautiful Veldheer Tulip Gardens, and boutique shopping, in addition to other attractions.
  • Alpena is a popular spot for visiting sites like the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Rockport State Park, and the Maritime Heritage Center.
  • Ann Arbor offers some great museums, artistic venues, a variety of shopping, and vibrant events.

Read on to learn about the many other enchanting places to go for a weekend getaway in Michigan.

What are some day trip ideas near Detroit?

  • The Bavarian-style town of Frankenmuth is a popular place for its European feel, great restaurants, and wealth of things to do.
  • Kensington Metropark in the town of Milford spans more than 4,500 acres, offering ample opportunities to hike, boat, swim, cross-country ski, and more.
  • Ann Arbor is a favorite day trip spot with lots to explore from beautiful museums to art galleries, loads of shopping fantastic restaurants, and catching a game or taking a tour of the Big House at the University of Michigan.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other day trip ideas near Detroit..

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