This Incredible Charlevoix Winter Weekend Getaway is IT!
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Wow, What a Winter Getaway in Charlevoix MI!
Looking for a fabulous winter weekend getaway?
Do yourself a favor and consider a Charlevoix winter weekend!
This little Lake Michigan harbor town is charming in the winter. Even though Charlevoix has a bite-sized population (under 2,500), it offers a king-sized amount of fun.
From winter river rafting to candlelit hikes, mushroom houses to downtown shopping and dining – “Charlevoix the Beautiful” is a Michigan destination you don’t want to overlook for a winter weekend getaway.
Go on the Candlelight Hike to Lake Michigan
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Wintertime Friday evenings are magical in Charlevoix.
Bundle up and do what it takes to get yourself to Mt. McSauba by 7 PM on a Friday evening this winter.
You’ll want at least an hour to tromp through the snow out to the roaring bonfire beside the frozen lake.
Snowshoe, hike, or cross-country ski on candle-lit trails on this self-guided journey. The hike begins at the sledding hill parking lot. The event takes place between 5 – 8 PM. If you start at 5, you might just catch the sunset.
The trail is about a mile long. Plan on an hour for this experience.
There’s no cost to participate. Volunteers go all out to make this community event special, providing hot cocoa at the bonfire stop, as well as putting out the candles and handling all of the small details that make this event a success. Donations are appreciated.
If you have any questions, please call the Recreation Department. 231-547-7183 or 231-547-3253.
Winter Raft the Jordan River
East Jordan, MI 49727
Sign up for a guided river rafting time slot with Jordan Valley Outfitters and get ready for a good time.
You won’t fall in – your raft comes with a guide who is in charge of making sure you have a safe, fun, dry time.
The trip is about 1.5 hours long. The midpoint of the trip serves as a hot cocoa stop.
If you like leisurely floating down a river under breathtaking scenery, this trip is for you.
$50/person. *Reservations required.
Stay at the Earl
Charlevoix, MI 49720
There’s a reason The Earl is featured on the Most Romantics Getaways in Michigan list: they take care of the details.
The contemporary vibe and thoughtful experiences will make you want to stay at this boutique hotel again and again.
The hotel bar, heated pool, and outdoor hot tub are just some of the things you need to experience at Hotel Earl.
In the winter, take advantage of the outdoor heated igloos.
Grab Coffee & Crepes from That French Place
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Grab to-die-for French pastries, crepes, and coffee at That French Place.
Go early; it’s worth the wait. Or, order online.
Hunt for Mushroom Houses
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Mushroom Houses are whimsical artisan homes featuring wavy rooflines and stonework that were designed by architect Earl Young between 1919 and the 1970s.
Young built 26 houses and several commercial properties using mostly stone (limestone, fieldstone, and boulders) found throughout Northern Michigan.
Each structure is unique but you can easily tell that Earl Young was the architect behind the building. If you’re in Charlevoix and you see a house with wavy eaves, a cedar shake roof, or something that resembles a gnome home, you’re looking at Young’s work.
Self-guided or guided Mushroom House tours are available. Most houses are located in the Boulder Park Area or the Park Avenue Area.
Don’t forget to look for Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant and Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites on Pine River Lane, and Hotel Earl on Michigan Avenue – they’re also his creations.
Stop at Castle Farms for Wine Tasting & a Tour
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Noted as one of Michigan’s premier historical attractions and wedding venues, visitors to Castle Farms will be met by a variety of cool things to see and do, including:
– guided or self-guided tours through the historic grounds
– wine tasting and gourmet food in the 1918 Tasting Room
Ski or Ice Skate at Mt McSauba
Charlevoix, MI 49720
Downhill Skiing
Mt. McSauba is a fantastic community winter park. Known as one of the oldest downhill areas in Michigan, “Michigan’s Best Little Ski Hill” has 10 runs, four tow ropes, and a snowboard park.
Open in the evenings Monday, Thursday & Friday and during the day on Saturday & Sunday.
Ice Skating
The skating rink is lit up at night and has a warming cabin.
Open in the evenings Monday, Thursday & Friday and Saturday & Sunday afternoons.
A pass for the ice rink is $3 and skate rental is $2.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Use of the 2K Lighted and Groomed Cross Country Trails is free. Half-day rentals are $11.
Visit the Frozen Lighthouse
Charlevoix, MI 49720
The ice formations on and around the lighthouse are impressive and worth a stop!
Charlevoix Winter Weekend Places to Stay
Of course, you’ll need a place to stay for your Charlevoix winter weekend. Here’s a few of our favs:
AmericInn by Wyndham Charlevoix
Bridge Street Inn
FAQs
Where is Charlevoix, Michigan located?
Charlevoix is located in northern Michigan, about 3 hours north of Grand Rapids or 4 hours NW of Detroit.
What is Charlevoix like in the winter?
Charlevoix is small in size but mighty in spirit. While there is tourism, the town’s blanket of snow keeps the sunseekers away and draws in the skiers. Some downtown shops and restaurants remain open through the winter, and the hotels are open, too.
Average temperatures are in the 20-30s and the area sees about 120 inches of snow each year.
January and February are usually great months to head to Charlevoix for winter snow fun.
Make Charlevoix Your Next Winter Adventure
With all these activities, amenities, and beautiful surroundings, Charlevoix has got to be on your list of top places to visit in Michigan this winter. Don’t be the one to miss out on the fun before the snow melts!
