This Great Lakes beach town has a reason for every season.
Nestled between 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and three state parks, Muskegon, Michigan, is a visitor’s dream for wintertime fun and recreation. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or serene winter escapes, Muskegon has something for you.
Here are ten ideas to warm up your winter adventure:
1. Skate Your Way Through a Winter Wonderland
At the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, visitors can skate through a ¼-mile trail in the white pine forest. The five-foot-wide trail allows you the room you need to glide or teach the little ones with the park’s skate trainers. Check out the trail during the day while the sun peaks through the pines, or wait till the sun goes down and watch the trail light up against the darkness of the winter night.
In addition to the wooded trail, the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park has a natural ice rink located right next to the lodge. The rink provides space for family free skate as well as hockey. Rentals and trainers are available. You can also check the schedules for indoor open ice skating at Trinity Health Arena and Lakeshore Sports Centre.
2. Snow-Covered Trails and Scenic Beauty
Put on your snowshoes, cross-country skis, or ice stabilizers and get out on the snow-covered trails. With well over 60 miles of natural and paved pathways, you can go from groomed to rustic on Muskegon County’s expansive trail systems. Explore our three state parks, seven county parks, and four nature preserves during the calm of winter. You can even ride your fat tire bike at Mosquito Creek Trails.
3. Experience the Non-Stop Thrills of Hockey
Hockey’s fast-paced action and skilled players make it a thrilling sport to watch. In Muskegon, you can cheer for two hockey teams! The Muskegon Lumberjacks, part of the United States Hockey League (USHL), play at Trinity Health Arena. The Muskegon Voyagers, part of the Michigan Independence Hockey League (MIHL), host home games at Lakeshore Sports Centre. Check their schedules on our event calendar.
4. Winter Thrills at Muskegon Luge Sports Park
Nestled in scenic Muskegon State Park, the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park features one of only four public luge tracks in the U.S., designed by an Olympian. Experience the thrill of speeding down the 650-ft. track, reaching up to 30 mph through banked curves and the "Furnace" straightaway. Sessions include coaching, free-sliding, and a fun race with Olympic-style medals. All equipment is provided. For a more relaxed pace, explore snowshoe or cross-country ski trails with beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Lost Lake. On Friday and Saturday nights, warm up at Bonfires and Brews in the Fire Garden, with craft beer, wine, s'mores, hot dogs, and more from the Snowshoe Café.
5. Fresh Finds at Muskegon Winter Farmers Market
Did you know the Muskegon Farmers Market is the second-largest in Michigan? You can still enjoy the market during the winter months! The Indoor Winter Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., where you'll find a cozy, welcoming atmosphere inside “The Barn.” Shop for fresh, seasonal produce, baked goods, handmade gifts, and enjoy a hot meal from local vendors. It’s the perfect way to support the community while enjoying fresh finds and friendly faces.
6. Hit the Hills
Muskegon County boasts 27 miles of dune-dotted Lake Michigan shoreline, along with three state parks, seven county parks, and several city locations—all offering great spots for winter fun. Whether you're into sledding, snowboarding, or tubing, there’s no shortage of hills to explore. Some areas, like Beachwood Park, even feature "Sledding Libraries," where you can borrow sleds during your visit. Whether you're after thrilling descents or a family-friendly experience, Muskegon’s hills have something for everyone. Slide into our "Five Favorite Sledding Hills" HERE!
7. Experience Muskegon’s Frozen Shores
When the Lake Michigan shoreline freezes, it transforms into a stunning, otherworldly landscape. A walk along the frosted coast will leave you in awe. Just be sure to follow safety rules! You might even spot unique formations like “ice pancakes” or “ice volcanoes.”
With 22 inland lakes, Muskegon County also offers plenty of opportunities to watch ice boating. On clear days, when the ice is free of snow, head to the shoreline of Muskegon, Mona, or White Lakes to catch this exciting sport in action. The sound of the boats “singing” as they glide across the ice is an unforgettable experience.
8. Fish the Frozen Waters
Muskegon County, with its abundance of inland lakes, rivers, and streams, is a top destination for ice fishing. With over 9,600 acres of surface water, the area offers endless opportunities to cast a line in the winter months. Popular species like northern pike, walleye, perch, and bluegill are waiting to be reeled in.
Whether you're a pro or new to the sport, Muskegon’s frozen waters offer a thrilling fishing experience. For tips, safety info, and fishing reports, visit the Michigan DNR website. No gear? Local rentals are available to help you get started. Reel in some tips in our Ice and Winter Fishing blog!
9. Snap a Selfie at a Snowboarding Landmark
Did you know the snowboard was invented in Muskegon? "The Turning Point" is a 14 foot sculpture in Downtown Muskegon (located in front of Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque and Vintage Redefined) that honors the invention of the "Snurfer."
At the top, a young woman dressed in 1960s attire (in tribute to Sherm Poppen’s daughter) stands, while a modern snowboarder cruises at the bottom, symbolizing the evolution of snowboarding. For any snowboarder, this is a must-see landmark—an iconic tribute to where it all began. Be sure to snap a selfie in front of this snowboarding mecca! Read more about the Birth of the Snowboard/Snurfer HERE.
10. Warm Up in a Social District
Muskegon County features four designated Social Districts: Downtown Muskegon, Lakeside, Whitehall, and Montague. Each area has its own unique vibe—whether you're enjoying a lively scene in Downtown Muskegon, a relaxed atmosphere by the lake in Lakeside, or the charming small-town feel of Whitehall and Montague. In these well-marked zones, you can sip your adult beverage outdoors while exploring local shops, restaurants, public art, and entertainment. Warm up with a drink and experience the distinct personality of each district. Read more about our social districts HERE.
