Things to Do in Houghton Lake
A Healthier Michigan
| 3 min read
Key Takeaways
- The biggest inland lake in the state, Houghton Lake spans more than 20,000 acres with 30 miles of shoreline
- The Houghton Lake area is home to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, where you can get exercise all winter.
- Houghton Lake offers several winter festivals to get the whole family outside and enjoying the season.
Are you looking for a winter adventure in Northern Michigan? Explore the Houghton Lake area in Roscommon County, known for its outdoor recreation, festivals and scenic beauty.
Houghton Lake is Michigan’s biggest inland lake, spanning more than 20,000 acres with 30 miles of shoreline. Roscommon County is also home to nearby Higgins Lake and Lake St. Helen.
This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to make the most of the winter season in the Mitten State.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular pastimes in the Houghton Lake area.
You’ll find miles of marked and well-maintained ski trails throughout Roscommon County. Groomed trails can be found at:
- Tisdale Triangle: ½ mile from Roscommon via M-18 and Tisdale Road
- Cross Country Ski Headquarters: 9435 N. Cut Road, Roscommon
Many state forest trails in the area accommodate visitors year-round for snowshoeing and skiing adventures. Be sure to check the local regulations and trail maps for more information.
Snowmobiling
An extensive snowmobile trail system stretches 200 miles throughout Roscommon County. Various rental services offer snowmobiles to visitors.
Check online for current conditions and trail reports to stay safe in the snow.
Ice fishing
The Houghton Lake area is known for its year-round fishing opportunities. In the winter, you can ice fish for perch, crappie, small and large mouth bass, northern pike, walleye, pike and bluegill on all three county lakes.
Participate in outdoor contests such as the “Big Ice Hole Catch Contest” running from January to March 15.
Shopping
Take a break from the cold and explore local shops along M-55, which runs through Houghton Lake and Prudenville. Shops include mercantiles, bookstores and quilt shops, as well as specialty groceries and fruit markets.
Winter festivals
Celebrate winter at Tip-Up Town USA, the longest-running winter festival in Michigan. Held annually each January in the Houghton Lake area, this family-friendly event boasts loads of winter fun.
Take part in an ice fishing or Polar Bear Dip plunge competition, race on snowmobiles or snack on foods from local vendors. A grand parade caps off the festivities each year.
Another festival to take part in is Winterfest at Higgins Lake. This event offers unique activities, such as a fishing derby and a broomball competition, as well as horse drawn wagon rides and a kids' carnival.
The Saint Helen Snowpackers Snowmobile Club holds an annual Snow Run each February. Here you can enjoy lunch, check points and prizes all while exploring miles of groomed trails.
Photo credit: Getty Images
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