What You Need to Know About a Mackinac Island Winter

Mackinac Island may be well known for its vibrant summer season, but there’s something undeniably magical about experiencing it in the winter. When the crowds disappear, a serene quiet blankets the island, transforming it into a peaceful winter wonderland. With snow-covered trails, cozy accommodations, and a pace that encourages relaxation, Mackinac Island in winter offers a unique escape. For those willing to embrace the snow and cold, this season brings an entirely new way to experience the island’s beauty and charm.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. This compensation is used to support our website so we can continue to bring you great content. Thank you! 

Things to do on Mackinac Island in the Winter

In winter, Mackinac Island’s small town charm really shines with plenty of unique activities to enjoy. The Christmas season kicks off the first weekend of December with a magical tree lighting ceremony in the heart of Main Street, complete with caroling, copious amounts of hot chocolate, and a cheerful crowd. The weekend celebrations continue with the annual Christmas Bazaar, holiday hay rides, and even a community-wide theater performance. To ring in the New Year, the island hosts a “Great Turtle Drop,” a fun twist on the classic ball drop.

Throughout the winter season, visitors can also hike, cross-country ski, do some night sky gazing, or sit by the fireplace in the library with a good book. One of the winter’s standout experiences is the Twilight Turtle Treks—free treks through lantern-lit trails in Mackinac Island State Park for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These unique events are a fantastic way to enjoy the island’s winter beauty!

Mackinac Island Winter

When does Mackinac Island close for the winter?

Mackinac Island is actually open year-round for visitors, but the “closing weekend” for peak season travel is the last weekend of October. After that, the island transitions into a much quieter winter season, with limited businesses and attractions open, making it a peaceful escape for those seeking a winter getaway.

Is Mackinac Island worth visiting in the winter?

Absolutely! Visitors are welcome on the island in the winter off-season. A winter visit to Mackinac Island allows you to enjoy a slower pace, perfect for exploring the quiet, snow-covered trails and cozying up in your hotel room without the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds.

Is Mackinac Island accessible in winter?

Yes, Mackinac Island remains accessible in winter thanks to the winter ferry service and private charter flights, so visitors and residents can still reach the island during the colder months.

Can I go to Mackinac Island in December?

Yes, you can! December is a beautiful time to visit, and if you’re there on the first weekend of December, you’ll catch the annual Christmas tree lighting on Main Street followed by the Christmas Bazaar excitement!

Is anything open on Mackinac Island in the winter?

Although the attractions are closed, a handful of restaurants, accommodations, and stores stay open. (Here is a list of what is open for the current winter season.) Some places open specifically for the Christmas Tree Lighting & Bazaar weekend and for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Does Mackinac Island close for the winter?

No, Mackinac Island remains open and accessible to visitors looking for a peaceful winter getaway.

Mackinac Island Winter Ferry

How to get to Mackinac Island in the winter?

In the winter, Mackinac Island is accessible via a winter ferry that operates daily out of St. Ignace (Arnold St. Ignace Dock #1) on a limited schedule Alternatively, visitors can also charter a private plane in St. Ignace for a scenic departure.

Does the Mackinac Island ferry run in the winter?

Yes, the winter ferry operates daily unless the lake ice becomes too thick or freezes over.

How long is the ferry ride to Mackinac Island in the winter?

The ferry ride to Mackinac Island typically takes about 45 minutes in winter, depending on weather conditions and ice cover.

If you are visiting during peak season, here is a post that will answer all of your ferry questions!

Mackinac Island Winter Lodging

Are there any hotels open in the winter on Mackinac Island?

Yes, a handful of accommodations remain open, offering visitors a warm and cozy stay during the quiet winter months. (Here is a complete list.)

Mackinac Island Winter Restaurants

What restaurants are open on Mackinac Island in the winter?

For the most up today winter business info, the Mackinac Island Tourism Board has a Winter Season list of places on the island that operate during the Christmas season as well as throughout winter (November to April). The island does have a grocery store, Doud’s Market & Deli, that is open year round.

Mackinac Island Winter Weather

Does Mackinac Island get snow?

Yes, Mackinac Island gets a significant amount of snow, transforming the island into a picturesque winter wonderland. On average, the island receives just under 100″ of snow a year.

What are winters like on Mackinac Island?

Winters on Mackinac Island are serene and chilly, with heavy snowfall creating a quiet, snowy retreat perfect for exploring and unwinding.

Does the Mackinac Bridge closed in the winter?

No, it remains open year-round as it connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. However, the Mackinac Bridge can close temporarily because of the weather, such as strong winds or falling ice.

Mackinac Island Winter Population

How many people stay on Mackinac Island in the winter?

Between 500 and 600 full-time residents live on the island year-round, creating a close-knit winter community.

Where do the horses on Mackinac Island go in the winter?

The horses spend the winter at a farm in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where they can rest and get spoiled until the busy summer season returns.

Make sure to check out some of these other Mackinac Island posts to help you plan your ideal vacation:

• DISCOVER WHAT TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND IF IT RAINS
• UNFORGETTABLE SOMEWHERE IN TIME MOVIE LOCATIONS EVERY FAN MUST SEE
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MACKINAC ISLAND FERRY
• 22 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND WITH YOUR TODDLER
• GRAB YOUR ESSENTIAL MACKINAC ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE EBOOK TODAY!
• HOW TO BE A PART OF FORT MACKINAC HISTORY
• 12 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE STAYING AT MISSION POINT RESORT