One of the area's that is a paradise found for snowshoeing is in the far northwest of the UP in an area called the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, or as they are referred to by locals, the Porkies. Bear, bobcats, coyotes, wolves and deer are natures children who share the magnificence of Mother Natures winter beauty with the hearty outdoors person. Snowshoeing in this rustic region is a true Zen-like experience of solitude and contemplation and challenge. Civilization is reduced to a four letter word, and is left far behind as you penetrate deep into the woods and mountains.
The 92 square miles (60,000 acres) of the wilderness state park gets on average of 200 inches of snow per year, and the season generally gets an early fuel injected jump start in mid-November. The park itself adjoins thousands of acres of national forest lands forming one of Michigan's largest wilderness areas for exploration. Hundreds of miles of trails for snowshoeing and cross country skiing create a labyrinth of natural beauty that meanders past giant stands of trees, sparkling waterfalls, and vistas of Lake Superior,the lake that sank the Edmund Fitzgerald., and the largest of the five Great Lakes.
Snowshoes and nighttime romance? You betcha! as we say in the language of the Yoopers. In December - February you can snowshoe the trails at night by lantern light to guide you while a full rich sky of stars sparkle overhead. You may even get a glimpse of natures own lava lamp full tilt boogie when the Northern Lights make an appearance. The trail is lit with lanterns and the trail is shared by cross country skiers and snowshoers. According to Bob Wild, Park Interpreter, “Participants hike around a 1.3 mile loop that is illuminated by 80 old-fashion kerosene lanterns. Half way around the loop we have a warming shelter, where I have hot refreshments and a bonfire going. It is a great way to spend the evening.” The trail itself is rated "easy" but anyone who has snowshoed at night knows it's always a challenge.
The lantern trek can be a real rustic knotty pine aphrodisiac, so follow the trail of your own romantic instincts afterwards where you can retreat to your rustic cabin with your loved one after an exhilarating evening of fun in the snow, and uncork a bottle of wine as you sit before your fireplace in contemplative silence. Who knows where soft lights and vino will lead, just remember to remove your snowshoes before getting under the bedsheets if that is your destination.
Lodging in the Great White Yooper north is diversified. You can mom and pop it at a motel, or luxuriate in a plaid shirt paradise at rustic lodges with a wine list and the camaraderie of other guests, or you choose a quaint quiet cabin nestled in the pines for seclusion and privacy. There's that romance thing again!
For a real change of pace from the city, you can opt to stay in a yurt! I've stayed in yurts in California at Big Sur and these circular abodes without 90 degree angles to fence you in are a pure joy.
Another option, and this is an acquired taste, is to camp it up outdoors to bring out the mountain man or mountain woman within. I did a lot a winter snowshoeing with backpack and would spend the night in the tranquility of the forest. Tent? Forgettabout...this is snow country and if you want to be an extension of nature itself dig in and build a snow shelter.
It's easy to construct, and they are effective. The easiest snow shelter is the snow cave. If snow is sufficiently deep, just burrow into it so there is enough room for you. You want the outer protective layer to be at least a foot thick to combat the elements. If there is not a deep layer of snow, simply pile snow on the existing snowfall to make it deep enough to proceed and wait for about a half an hour for the snow to settle and harden.
Now you can begin the finishing touches by hollowing it out. You want the hollowed mound to be at least five feet tall and large enough for the number of persons who you will be sharing it with, and don't forget to make a ventilation hole in the top of the mound. Sweet snow dreams!
The nearby towns of Ontonagon and Silver City have lodging, shopping, restaurants, pubs, and a vibrant nightlife to kick up your heels after kicking up the snow. You can enjoy a thick steak and brew with friends as you recall the adventures of the day challenging the Porkies. Believe me, the snowshoe workout will work up one hell of an appetite as well. One of my favorite places to unwind with mulled wine or a cold brew is the Whoop and Holler Tavern. Need I say more? The name says it all!
For more information on the Porcupine Mountains and various activities and trails visit their website at http://porcupinemountains.com
If you're looking for a touch of Zen adventure and winter romance, put on a pair of snowshoes and hit the trails in the UP of Michigan. It's a romantic winter wonderland adventure...Yooper Style!! You betcha!!