Choosing Winter: A Day on Marquette Mountain

Rest area on the slope

The wind is in your hair, the snow firm beneath your skis, and as you glide down Marquette Mountain—weaving back and forth—a peculiar thought enters your mind. They call Michigan’s Upper Peninsula a winter wonderland for a reason. Within an hour and forty minutes of Escanaba, there are five ski hills, countless miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails winding through the woods, and plenty of opportunities for winter rabbit hunting. 

Today happens to be a ski day, but if it weren’t, it would be something else—because winter up here invites you to participate rather than stay inside.

It is hard to ski with a latte
in your hand.

The lifts were spinning, and people flocked to the resort to get their time on the snow. Families, friends, and solo skiers filled the mountain, each carving their own lines down the slope. 

You can complain about winter, or you can embrace it—and that choice is entirely yours. Personally, I believe you should make the best of whatever season you’re in.

Along the hill, I noticed a few cozy spots tucked away for people to stop and take a break. Sometimes they have fire pits crackling, offering warmth and a natural place for conversation with complete strangers.

Opening weekend was half off, which gave everyone something to talk about. The money saved might even be enough for a well-earned latte (or other beverage) afterward—a small bonus that somehow makes the day feel even better.

Ski patrol perched at top of hill.

In moments like these, winter doesn’t feel harsh or isolating. It feels social, active, and alive—a season meant to be experienced, not endured. 14 degrees is like an extreme sport!

UP Downhill Ski Report

Marquette Mountain