Winter in Tawas: FIVE Top Things to Do in East Tawas and Tawas City What is There to Do in East Tawas in the Winter?
Located on Michigan’s “Sunrise Side,” the towns of East Tawas and the city of Tawas City, MI make up the Tawas area. Set on the shores of Tawas Bay, the spot draws visitors in the summer who flock to the area for the soft sand beaches and fun beach town vibe.
In the winter, the town quiets down a bit, but the opportunity for outdoor activity seems to multiply, thanks to the surrounding forests and trail networks for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Ice fishing is big here, too, and for those who prefer quieter activities, there’s a charming downtown shopping area to explore.
Located just over to hours from the metro Detroit area, the Tawas area makes a perfect romantic getaway or winter family getaway.
Read on to discover the Top FIVE things to do in East Tawas and Tawas City in the Winter.
Take a Hike through Tawas Point State Park
It’s known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” mainly because of Tawas Point, a picturesque spit of land that juts out into Lake Huron.
In the winter, the snow covers the sandy beach along Tawas Point and it’s hard to tell where the land stops and the lake starts. The lake freezes over, and the snow-swept landscape is calm and quiet, with an ethereal feel.
Tawas Point is part of Tawas Point State Park, known for its iconic lighthouse. At almost 70 feet high, the lighthouse is one of the prettiest in Michigan, and its bright red roof looks brighter against the white snow. You’ll find hiking trails here near the lighthouse parking lot.
Try some Cross-country Skiing or Snow Shoeing along the Corsair Trail
The Corsair Trail is one of the Midwest’s finest cross-country ski trail systems with 26 miles of groomed trails.
You’ll have an opportunity to observe the beauty of Michigan in winter as you pass sunny open vistas, hushed stands of sweet-smelling fir and towering hardwoods, and along the edge of winding ice-locked streams.
If you don’t have your own skis, you can rent some at Nordic Sports Adventure Outfitters in downtown East Tawas. Noric Sports is located at 218 W Bay St, East Tawas, MI 48730; Phone (989) 362-2001.
Explore Downtown East Tawas
East Tawas, a popular resort town in the summer months, has a charming little downtown shopping area to explore, too.
Don’t miss the Village Chocolatier, with their hand-dipped chocolates and other sweet treats. It’s a good spot to duck in to take the chill off if you’re wandering about on a chilly day.
Take a peek into the Ben Franklin store, and old-fashioned five-and-dime that is a lot of fun to explore. be sure and duck into Brew Krew and check out their amazing assortment of fun goodies for the kitchen and bath.
Ride the Trails on a Snowmobile
If you like your winter activity fast and furious, you’ll find more than 90 miles of snowmobile trails in the Tawas area. The Huron Snowmobile Trail, which you can ride for miles through state forests, can be accessed via two points in the Tawas area.
The two trailheads closest to town are the Tawas Area Trailhead (off Monument Road on the left before Camel Road) and the Sand Lake Area Trailhead (off Esmond Road and Indian Lake Road).
Attend the Tawas Winter Festival Perchville USA
Michigan’s oldest winter carnival offers a huge variety of activities for the whole family. Take a dip in icy Lake Huron, taste homemade chili, take the kids down to the Family Tent for games, food, and a magic show.
There is a parade down US-23, food vendors, and a Hospitality Tent with great music. This is a one-of-a-kind Michigan experience you just can’t miss!
If you’re looking for more complete guides of things to do in Michigan in the winter, please check out Michigan Winter: Michigan Winter: 29 TOP Things to Do (Snow Much FUN!) and Winter Weekend Getaways Michigan (12 Top Spots).