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November 2024 | Industry Newsletter
The Keweenaw’s visitor economy plays a vital role in our region’s quality of life and future prosperity. To keep local leaders and stakeholders current on issues impacting the industry, Visit Keweenaw created this monthly newsletter to share information on topics such as economic trends, destination and community investments, and other pertinent news.
We hope you find this a valuable resource to stay up to date on the Keweenaw’s visitor economy and encourage you to share it with parties you think would benefit from the information. As always, we look forward to sharing what makes the Keweenaw a special community to both live in and visit.
Within this newsletter, you'll find:
November Gale Industry Update
The leaves are gone, and we’re waiting on snow. But that doesn’t mean tourism and travel stop in the Keweenaw. While leisure travelers often get the headlines, group sports is an important component of our visitor economy. And there’s no time like the shoulder season where that group is more important to local businesses than early winter when most forms of recreation travel come to a screeching halt.
That’s why Visit Keweenaw was excited to sponsor the recent November Gale 10U Hockey Tournament hosted by the Copper Country Junior Hockey Association (CCJA). Over one long weekend, CCJHA coordinated an eight-team tourney which brought children (and their families) from across the U.P. and Northern Wisconsin to experience the Birthplace of Professional Hockey. Action took place at Michigan’s MacInnes Arena, The Dee and the HoCo Arena. This was a fantastic experience for out-of-town players and our own local talent, but it also generated meaningful funds to support local youth hockey in the Copper Country.
We’re proud the Keweenaw business community came out in a big way to support this event and thankful to the volunteers whose time and energy made it happen.
Mount Bohemia USA Today Results
Snowboard, ski and spa lovers across North America have spoken. Mount Bohemia just finished the USA Today 10Best Ski Resorts in North America contest in second place. The USA Today competition put Bohemia up against other extreme skiing destinations like Banff, California and South Lake Tahoe. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy an impressive and expanded 620 skiable acres and 111 runs this winter at Mount Bohemia. Its longest, Ghost Trail, spans nearly two miles – making it the longest ski run in Michigan.
The hill is known for getting up to 270 annual inches of snow and opened in 2000. Mount Bohemia holds Michigan’s tallest vertical drop at 900 feet. Its Nordic spa continues to expand, with plans to open a new, fourth sauna and different spa experiences like an exfoliation room. Pair a day on the hill with an evening at the spa to recuperate your body and mind.
Ready to ski one of North America’s top ski hills? Mount Bohemia’s famous $99 season pass sale starts on Wednesday, Nov. 27 and goes through Dec. 7. Season pass holders can enjoy free skiing at about 29 other resorts in the USA with their season pass from Mount Bohemia.
Explore the Future of Heritage Tourism in the Keweenaw
Join Michigan Tech students from Dr. Mark Rhodes’ Introduction to Sustainable Tourism course as they present an engaging exploration of global heritage tourism and its potential intersections with the Keweenaw. The Keweenaw Sustainable Tourism Series is on Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 2-3 p.m. at the Advanced Technology Development Complex on MTU’s Campus. This special program dives into the region’s deep-rooted history, examining how the Keweenaw might fit into UNESCO’s prestigious designations as either a World Heritage Site or a Global Geopark. Through their research, students will explore:
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The connections between sustainable tourism and Visit Keweenaw’s mission
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The benefits and challenges of pursuing a UNESCO designation
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Actionable recommendations for preserving and celebrating the Keweenaw’s rich heritage
The discussion promises to illuminate exciting possibilities for leveraging the Keweenaw’s unique story on a global stage while addressing how to balance cultural heritage with sustainable growth.
Keweenaw Peninsula Snowfall Guessing Contest Launches
It’s time to make your best guess at how many inches of snow will blanket the Keweenaw Peninsula this winter and win free swag. Visit Keweenaw is inviting the public (Yoopers, Trolls and beyond) to take a stab at how much snow we will get. You can submit a guess via Google Forms, and see how yours stacks up at the end of the season. This year, Visit Keweenaw will publicly announce a winner this year, giving you braggin rights and free Visit Keweenaw swag if your guess is correct.
To participate, simply enter your prediction on the Google Form before Dec. 13, 2024 at 5 p.m. At the end of the season, the Visit Keweenaw team will announce a winner. The winner will be able to pick up their swag from the Visit Keweenaw office or make mailing arrangements. So, snow lovers and skeptics alike, gear up and take your shot at Michigan’s most epic snow forecast. Visit Keweenaw uses Keweenaw County’s snowfall reporting to run its contest. Sometimes, it snows as late as May – so stay tuned until the season concludes.
If any one spot in Michigan is belted in winter, it’s typically the Keweenaw. With high elevation across the rugged Peninsula, strong winds off Lake Superior and its northern latitude, the Keweenaw is no stranger to 300-inch winters. In fact, the highest record was 390.4 inches (32.5 feet) during the winter of 1978-79. The lowest ever was in 1930-31, where only 80 inches of snow fell over winter.
Keweenaw Boat Capt. Jason Swain launches Northern Lights Tours on Land
As November’s gales drive Keweenaw boat captains off the icy waters of Lake Superior, many are trading their time on the lake for quieter pursuits on land. Captain Jason Swain of Keweenaw Boat Tours, known for his summer lighthouse tours and scenic Portage Canal cruises, is no exception. With the seasons shifting, Captain Jason Swain is bringing his sense of adventure and photography skills ashore, now offering guided Northern Lights Tours this winter. The Earth is also in the middle of an eleven-year solar maximum cycle, making it the perfect year to get into chasing the Aurora.
“My Boat tour guests asked about the northern lights all the time,” said Jason Swain, Owner of Keweenaw Boat Tours. “I figured since I’m most likely going to be out chasing anyway that I’d take a few people with me. My summer options offer unique perspectives of the Keweenaw only seen by boat, limited to six people. The trolley accommodates larger groups of 13 while socializing along the waterfront. My northern lights tours are land-based tours focusing on people who are new to the aurora, want a quick and easy lesson on predicting, and hopefully catch them later that evening.”
Capt. Swain’s tours will go on his social media when he’s accepting bookings. You’ll have to keep a close watch and book just a day or two in advance when he posts online about aurora potential. Happy hunting this winter!
USA Today Snow Competition Upper Peninsula MI
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has been nominated for Best Destination for Snow on USA Today’s 10Best List. Help our vast region’s small businesses and attractions gain recognition by casting your vote and securing first place! As Michigan’s premier winter wonderland, the Keweenaw is renowned for its incredible snowfall, spectacular landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures like snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing. This is our shared opportunity for Upper Michigan to show the nation why it’s the best place to experience winter.
Voting is open and continues through Monday, Dec. 9 at noon and you can cast once a day. The winners will be announced on Friday, Dec. 13. Unique in the contest – most other competitors are lone towns like Anchorage, Alaska and Caribou, Maine. Let’s band together to show the U.P. is the top destination for snow in 2024!
9 Winter Festivities to Enjoy through March
Winter in the Keweenaw is a celebration of snow-dusted landscapes, vibrant traditions and the thrill of the cold. Here – the snow energizes and unites our communities. With a packed lineup of unique winter events that keep the community buzzing and visitors exploring, the Keweenaw transforms into a playground for anyone seeking the magic of winter. Find a true taste of the Keweenaw’s spirit at one of these nine winter events taking place now through March.
Hancock Christmas Walk (Nov. 29, 2024): The City of Hancock turns into “Twas the Night Before Christmas” on Quincy Street on Friday, Nov. 29 from 6-8 p.m. The evening begins with a Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. and follows with dog sled rides, cookie decorating and food trucks. Santa Claus will lead the lighting of Hancock’s Christmas Tree at Memorial Park after the parade. Quincy Street will close down for the event, creating a fun holiday environment in Hancock. Bring your sleds (snow dependent) to the Quincy Green: a prime location for sledding in town.
Winter Wonderland (Dec. 6, 2024): Hear sleigh bells ring and the clickety-clack of hooves as you ride a horse-drawn carriage under Houghton’s holiday lights. Grab a piping cup of hot chocolate and hear Christmas music on the Houghton Pier. Santa and Mrs. Claus plan on attending and will take letters from kids and hear your Christmas wishes. Kids can get photos with popular kids Christmas cartoon characters. Bundle up and spend time at Winter Wonderland and check out Houghton’s shops and restaurants downtown.
Copper Harbor Christmas Tree Lighting (Dec. 14, 2024): Copper Harbor welcomes all to its winter festivities taking place Dec. 14, 2024. Things kick off with an Art Show at the Mariner North from 12-5 p.m. Santa will be hanging around later in the evening to meet and greet with families and young ones. Head on over to the Donny Kilpela Memorial Park across US-41 from the Mariner to see Copper Harbor’s Christmas tree lighting and fireworks at 6 p.m.
NYE Chook Drop (Dec. 31, 2024 ): Ring in the New Year at the Gateway to the Keweenaw! Houghton’s NYE Chook Drop gives you two chances to celebrate 2025. On Tuesday, Dec. 31 – bring your kiddos to the Little Chook Drop from 6:30-7 p.m. on the Houghton Waterfront Pier. The City of Houghton and Visit Keweenaw will play clean jams leading up to the Little Chook Drop at 7 p.m., creating a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy New Year’s excitement before bedtime. Then, for the night owls, come back to the pier for the classic Midnight Chook Drop! Enjoy live music from Mr. Cesar and the Lucha Tones, rocking the stage until the final countdown and Chook Drop at midnight. Don’t miss out on ringing in 2025 in Houghton’s unique style this New Year’s Eve!
Heikinpäivä (Jan. 27, 2025): Celebrate Finnish heritage at Heikinpäivä 2025 in Hancock where tradition and winter fun collide! Participate in the Wife Carrying Contest, watch the Hobby Horse Hoedown, Winter Parade and catch the traditional Spiral Bear Dance on the Quincy Green. You’ll find outdoor games like vipukelkka (kick sled races), and opportunities to participate in other Finnish-themed dinners and activities. Try out Takka Portage for an authentic Finnish sauna during Heikinpäivä down on the Portage Canal.
MTU Winter Carnival (Feb. 5-8, 2025): Experience the magic of Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival 2025! MTU’s Winter Carnival is one of the most iconic winter celebrations in the Midwest, featuring extraordinary snow statues, activities on MTU Campus and a torchlit ski parade down Mont Ripley. This year’s theme is “Dragons, Knights & Legendary Sights” which will add some fun medieval flair to carnival’s snow statues. Stay tuned for more announcements about activities and more snow sculptures in Downtown Houghton.
Jibba Jabba (Feb. 15, 2025): Houghton’s Red Bull-sponsored snowboard event is shredding Huron Street on Saturday, Feb. 15. Jibba Jabba brings in professional snowboard riders from across the nation who put on a show for the crowd. Snowboarders compete for a cash purse – pushing them to perform impressive tricks and shred with their best foot forward. The crowd will line the sides of the course, keeping you close to the action. Pair Jibba Jabba with a day at Mont Ripley Ski Area or Mount Bohemia Ski Resort for the ultimate Valentine’s Day weekend escape.
CopperDog 150 (Feb. 28, March 1 & 2): Michigan’s most northern dogsled races are slated to take place Feb. 28-March 2, 2025. Hear the howl of the wild and see large groups of sled dogs race to victory. The CopperDog 150 packs a fast weekend of dog sled races across the Keweenaw, spanning from Calumet to Copper Harbor. Community watch parties light the night, keeping the fans hot on the trail of the CopperDogs. Dress warm and watch the different legs of the races, from the high-energy kickoff in Calumet to the quieter last legs further north.
Great Bear Chase (March 8, 2025): U.P. Health System’s Great Bear Chase skis through the Swedetown Trails in Calumet on March 8, 2025. The Great Bear Chase celebrates snow in the Keweenaw and how unique it is compared to other destinations only a few hours away. Skiers will navigate either a 25k or 50k course and enjoy quality XC ski trails. Compete in one of the Midwest’s last ski races of the season in Calumet this coming March.
Michigan Snowmobile Trails to Open Dec. 1
Snowmobile season is just around the corner, and the Keweenaw’s 230+ miles of scenic, adventure-packed trails are ready to welcome riders as soon as the snow piles up. Starting Dec. 1, Michigan’s state-designated snowmobile trails will open for the season, running through March 31. While grooming only starts when snow reaches optimal depths, the countdown to the first ride is officially on!
Last year, riders had to wait until Mid-January to hit fully groomed trails under the iconic Portage Lake Lift Bridge, but this season is shaping up to be a snowier one according to sources. With wetter-than-average conditions predicted and the Keweenaw’s reputation for delivering up to 300 inches of snow annually, we’re optimistic about a stellar snowmobile season ahead.
From wide-open stretches through pristine wilderness to the thrill of twists and turns in spots like Dreamland, the Keweenaw offers every snowmobiler a perfect ride. The Keweenaw Snowmobile Club maintains 230+ miles of trail around the peninsula from Copper Harbor to Toivola. The Groomers run regularly to help settle fresh snow and reset the tracks to keep up with snowmobile traffic.
Michigan’s Free Snowmobiling Weekend will take place Jan 17-19, 2025. This special weekend allows both Michigan residents and out-of-state folk to ride their snowmobile on the trails without a current ORV sticker or registration. Whether it’s your first time or if you’re looking for a free adventure – try snowmobiling on the state’s free weekend.
As we eagerly await the first flakes to stick, you can stay connected with Keweenaw snow conditions by tracking totals online with the Keweenaw County Road Commission. If you haven’t guessed how many inches we’ll get – enter our contest on Visit Keweenaw to win free Keweenaw Swag for guessing spot on!
In the Headlines
- Date Set for Michigan’s Urban Snowboard Competition (SNOWBOARDER/Yahoo! Life)
- These 14 Towns in Michigan Were Ranked Among US Favorites in 2024 (WorldAtlas)
- Crimson trail lights the way at this U.P. dark sky path (MLive)
- One of the best ski resorts in the country is in Michigan. Here’s why you should go (Detroit Free Press)
- Lake Superior boat captain offering Northern Lights tours in the off-season (MLive)
- Take your best guess: What will be the snow total for Michigan’s northernmost peninsula? (MLive)
- Freestyle snowboarding event to shred through U.P. downtown (MLive)