This Glowing Winter Walk Takes You to a Cozy Snack Yurt – All About Michigan’s Enchanted Trail
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S’mores, Snow, and Sparkling Lights: The Enchanted Trail
There’s winter in Michigan, and then there’s winter at The Highlands in Harbor Springs.
If you’re near the tip of the mitten between January and February, you must carve out time for The Enchanted Trail—a two-mile trek through a softly lit, snow-covered forest that has become a tradition for many, and is probably straight out of a storybook. It totally makes budling up worth it.
A Walk Through the Lights
We hit the trail on a crisp, clear night in late January. The moment you start walking, you’re surrounded by lights that are honestly pretty amazing—color-shifting tunnels that sparkle overhead like they’re alive.
Along the way, there are interactive surprises, fun archways to walk under, and even these snow drums you can play – hit them and watch light ripple.
Another cool part cool part: if you start singing (even very off-key like me) the lights actually dance to the sound of your voice!
There are lots of spots to stop and take pictures or just hang out and enjoy how pretty everything is. Definitely find time to you congratulate yourself on choosing such a cool winter adventure.
The trail itself is easy to walk on – they groom it really well, so you won’t be tripping over hidden snow piles or anything. It’s mostly flat too, which means you can just walk it in your regular snow boots, or if you’re feeling extra outdoorsy, strap on some snowshoes.
Destination: Cozy Yurt & Campfire Snacks
Just when your cheeks are rosy and your fingers are starting to feel it, a yurt appears through the trees, glowing like a lantern in the snow, practically shouting, get in here.
A wooden door swings open, and inside, it’s toasty, bright. Hot cocoa is waiting and marshmallows are ready for roasting.
Then, the bartender catches your eye. Want a little something extra in that cocoa? Wink, wink. Suddenly, the cash bar is looking like the best idea you’ve had all night.
Warm drinks in hand, it’s time to tackle those marshmallows at one of those flickering bonfires dotting the snow. This was honestly one of my favorite parts and so magical.
Really! Roasting marshmallows under the twinkle lights to the perfect level of brown, putting together that ooey-gooey goodness with graham crackers and chocolate. Not sure why s’mores are so much fun in the thick of winter, but they are.
Dates, Families & Paws Welcome!
While the trail is perfect for couples trying to be romantic, this isn’t just a date-night thing—it’s actually super fun for the whole family.
Got little kids? If they’re under 5, they get in free! And here’s something cool – you can bring your dog too, as long as they’re on a leash.
The groomed trail makes for an easy walk (or snowshoe trek), and timed entries keep it from feeling too crowded.
If You Go
📍 Where: The Highlands at Harbor Springs, 600 Highlands Dr, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
📅 When: January 3 – February 22, 2025
💰 Cost: Starts at $15 per person (kids 5 and under free)
🔥 Includes: Hot cocoa & s’mores (adult drinks available for purchase)
If winter usually has you hibernating, this might be the one thing that gets you out in the snow in Michigan—and loving it.
PS – Make it a Winter Weekend
Want to turn your enchanted evening into a full winter adventure? The Highlands isn’t just about glowing forests!
Beyond the Enchanted Trail, you can ski some of Michigan’s best slopes, go on a horse trail ride through the woods, take a sleigh ride to a candlelit cabin dinner, or brave the winter zipline course. And Definitely look into their midweek specials – you might score a sweet deal that lets you try it all for less than you’d think! Details.
