Explore Our Winter Wonderland

The winters here in the Art Coast of Michigan are simply magical and worthy of a getaway where the goal is to experience some peace and tranquility. Outdoor enthusiasts will especially appreciate all the seasonal activities that can be enjoyed in the immediate area or within a short drive.

Bundle up and get ready to feel the crunch of snow beneath your feet. There’s simply nothing as invigorating as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where you’ll get to explore miles of spectacular scenic trails that are incredibly stunning this time of year. Or make your way over to the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area to breathe in the fresh cool air and marvel at the stark beauty of the wooded dunes and shoreline. And don’t worry if you don’t own any gear. Stop by Landsharks in Saugatuck to rent skis, boots, poles, or snowshoes.

To encounter the extraordinary, head over to Oval Beach, where you could bear witness—if the weather conditions are just right—to some unusual phenomena like ice volcanoes and ice balls along the shoreline. Ice balls are formed when cold temperatures in the teens and single digits cause a layer of floating slush on the lake to be sculpted into ice spheres by the waves. “Erupting” ice volcanoes happen where waves hit accumulated ice on the shoreline with enough force to spout water upwards, resembling volcanic activity. Should you be fortunate enough to catch these weather-related occurrences, we ask that you please enjoy the beauty of the ice from the safety of the shore.

For those looking for a bit of thrill and nostalgia, bring your sled to Schultz Park in Douglas or to Clearbrook Golf Course (Hole 5 accessed from 64th Street) for some frosty downhill fun for the whole family. You can also go sledding at Oval Beach on the dune. For a more relaxing yet equally spectacular outdoor adventure, let Wild West Ranch take you on a private horse-drawn sleigh ride through magical snow-covered woods. You can also arrange for a winter carriage ride or winter horseback riding (weather permitting) through Rise and Ride Ranch.

For skiing and tubing enthusiasts, enjoy the charming and relaxing atmosphere of Saugatuck/Douglas as your home base and take the short hour drive or less to the following ski resorts and ski areas: