9 Majestic Ice Formations That Prove Winter Is The Most Beautiful Season In Michigan
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Sophie Boudreau
Author
Michigan is stunning throughout the year. During summer and spring months, we boast some of the most breathtaking beaches and shorelines imaginable. In the fall, our state comes to life with colorful foliage. Winter, however, is sometimes overlooked in terms of outdoor beauty — but these fascinating icy areas in the Great Lakes State will quickly convince you that cold weather doesn’t detract from natural splendor.
Let’s start with the obvious: Lake Michigan. Our "big lake" is a point of pride for Michiganders of all ages, and it gains a new sort of beauty each winter. Marvel at waves that seem frozen in midair, gaze at otherworldly icy shapes that have formed on lighthouses and piers, and tread carefully as you walk along the slippery shoreline. You’ll wonder if you’ve landed on another planet.
If you’re searching for a magical view, the Eben Ice Caves certainly deliver. Located within the Rock River Wilderness area of the Hiawatha National Forest, these striking formations are a must-visit spot for adventurous Michiganders in the Upper Peninsula this winter. Lace up your warmest hiking boots and head out to explore this majestic attraction… or just admire a few photographs!
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It’s no secret that Tahquamenon Falls is a beautiful destination during warmer months, but there’s also plenty to admire here when winter rolls around. After all, the beauty of a frozen waterfall is truly unforgettable, and Tahquamenon certainly delivers. Be sure to bring your camera: you’ll want to remember your time at this one-of-a-kind ice formation.
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As with Lake Michigan, Lake Superior turns into a frozen wonderland when winter arrives. No matter which access point you choose to visit, you’re in for some stunning views of the icy waterfront. Massive ice boulders, rocky shorelines dotted with snow, and everything in between: what’s not to love?
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If you’ve ventured to one of our Great Lakes when it’s not completely frozen, perhaps you’ve noticed an interesting series of floating ice pieces throughout the water. Most commonly found in Lake Michigan, these circular ice formations resemble frozen lily pads, and they’re nothing short of mesmerizing. Be sure to look and not touch, though: the frozen waters of our Great Lakes can be dangerous.
Each year, countless brave souls venture to Munising for a chance to climb the "Dryer Hose," a frozen waterfall that creates a towering scene for wintertime adventurers. For those with experience in ice climbing, the Dryer Hose is something of a rite of passage here in the Great Lakes State. Even if you can’t visit this spot in person, though, its unique appearance in photos is something to marvel at.
We couldn’t list Lake Michigan and Superior without also including our beloved Lake Huron. After all, the frozen shorelines of this Great Lake are just as mesmerizing during the winter months, and you’ll find plenty of showy lakeshores to stroll along. Just be sure to bundle up: those lower temperatures near the water are certainly no joke!
These beautiful ice formations on Grand Island in Lake Superior are challenging to access, but if you have the time, resources, and knowledge, they’re well worth a visit. For the rest of us, though, photos help capture the beauty of the Grand Island Ice Caves, which seem to glow with a turquoise hue throughout the cold months. It’s impossible not to be wowed by these unique formations.
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Motor City residents are well-aware that the Detroit River is a lovely spot to stroll alongside, but other Michiganders might not have discovered its beauty just yet. During the cold season, the river freezes over, resulting in large ice chunks and fantastic scenery that will make you feel as though you’re walking in a winter wonderland. You’ll certainly want to see for yourself.
Tell us, Michiganders: have you visited these or any other ice formations here in the Great Lakes State? Do you have any pretty photos to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below, and please remember to exercise caution when venturing to any icy spots throughout our state.
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