We have been wanting to visit Eben Ice Caves in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for quite some time now. This winter we were finally able to set aside a perfect weekend to go explore them & more. It was the perfect winter family getaway.
How much did this weekend getaway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula cost?
Country Inn & Suites $220
Gas- $110
Food- $100
Entertainment- FREE
Weather in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
If you are heading to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the winter, keep your eye on the weather. On our way home there was a storm coming in from the north and south. Thankfully we were able to beat most of it.
More Michigan Fun
Yooperlite Rocks – How to Find Michigan’s Glowing Rocks
What to Pack for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Here is a list of our recommended items to pack for this winter getaway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Warm winter jacket- Men’s, Women’s, Youth
Snow pants or warm water-repellent pants- Men’s, Women’s, Youth
Warm winter boots- Men’s, Women’s, Youth
Winter hat- Men’s, Women’s, Youth
Winter gloves- Men’s, Women’s, Youth
Ice cleats- Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats
Hydration backpack- Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack (We love these hydration backpacks!)
Waterproof headlamp(if planning on being out after dark)– Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight
Warm moisture-wicking base layer
Warm moisture-wicking socks
Snacks
Bridge View Park
The drive to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can be quite boring. Whenever we head that way, we always opt for extra stops along the way. One stop we ALWAYS make is Bridge View Park. This park is free, offers incredible views of the Mackinac Bridge, and has clean restrooms. My kids could play at that shoreline all day.
Note: This park was closed. We do not know if it was closed for winter or due to the government shutdown. That meant that there was no access to the bathrooms or parking lot, but we were able to park on the side of the road and walk in.
Bridge View Park- FREE
Kitch-iti-kipi
Kitch-iti-kipi was absolutely beautiful when we visited it in the summer. It instantly sparked my curiosity about what it was like during the other seasons. So when I knew we were headed for the UP this winter, I had to add it as a stop. I must admit- I was really hoping for a winter wonderland scene covered with snow. That wasn’t the case. However, it was stunning. The water was a different blue than it was during the summer (still beautiful) and the animals… there were so many. We watched hundreds of ducks and large fish play in the water. Something you rarely see in Michigan’s frigid winter temperatures. I imagine that you see so much wildlife during the winter because Kitch-iti-kipi never freezes and stays a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
*Kitch-iti-kipi is only about 50 steps from the parking lot and the trail is flat and easy. This makes it a perfect stop for all ages and abilities. They close their bathrooms and gift shop in the winter.
Kitch-iti-Kipi- FREE
Eben Ice Caves
Eben Ice Caves (aka Rock River Canyon Ice Caves) are so much fun! We arrived around 10 am on a Sunday. The small parking lot was empty and we couldn’t have been more excited to beat the crowds. We had the Ice Caves to ourselves for a few hours and it was amazing. I couldn’t imagine having to share it with a huge crowd as the area isn’t large.
Eben Ice Caves- FREE (unless you are kind and chose to leave a donation)
Pictured Rocks
After Eben Ice Caves we decided to head to Munising, MI to check out Pictured Rocks and waterfalls. Once there, my kids decided that they didn’t want to hike again. Hiking Eben Ice Caves was more grueling than we had planned, so we decided to drive to lookout spots instead. In the end, we were happy with the lookout spots.
Pictured Rocks lookouts- FREE
Miners Castle Rock
This lookout is a must. They offer an upper and lower viewing spot. I recommend both if the steps down aren’t too icy.
Sand Point Beach
Have you ever walked on completely frozen sand? There was hardly any snow, making the frozen sand visible. It looks like normal sand, but your feet don’t sink in and it’s really hard- not soft. It was a crazy experience. Every fallen branch/tree was completely covered in ice. It was the coolest thing.
Marquette
Scotts Falls
This was right on the side of the road. Due to the way it partially froze, it was one of the most interesting waterfalls we have ever seen. (Scotts Falls is located between Marquette and Munising/Pictured Rocks in Alger County)
Scotts Falls- FREE
Abandoned Ore Dock
This was pretty neat to see. It is located in a very cute area. I would have loved to explore the area more but we didn’t have extra time.
Abandoned Ore Dock- FREE
Presque Isle Park
This park is absolutely beautiful. Many of the park roads were closed when we were there. Someday we hope to make it back so we can see the entire park. Presque Isle Park offers a wildlife viewing area which is pretty cool. We must have seen 20 deer there!
Presque Isle Park- FREE
If you are looking for other winter weekend getaways, you might enjoy this post.
Have you braved the cold and explored Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the winter? If not, I highly recommend it.
Pin for later: Exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Winter | A Fun Weekend Getaway
