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Operated by SkyWest Airlines Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 3
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Index of Advertisers
4 Seasons Lawn and Property Service page 7 906 Cafe page 23 906 Service Inc. page 39 Abelman Clothing and Footwear page 17 Angler’s page 25 AmericInn Silver City page 27 Antonio’s Restaurant page 48 Ashland Ford/Chrysler page 31 Bear’s Nine Pines page 48 Belair Motel page 9 Ben Franklin page 7 Ben’s Place page 45 page 31 Benoit Cheese Bessemer Dairy Queen page 17 Big Moose Home Inspections page 24 Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort page 22 Big Valley Ford Chrysler page 19 Black River Valley Pub page 46 Borseth Properties page 19 Burger’s Bar and Grill page 46 Burton Electronics Manufacturing page 7 C & M Oil page 17 Century 21 page 9 Char’s Cafe page 19 Chequamegon Food Co-op page 31 Cloverland Motor Sports page 7 Cobblestone Inn and Suites page 31 Copper Peak page 13 Days Inn page 22 Domitrovich Realty page 27 Downtown Art Place page 15 Earth and Sky Day Spa page 35 Ewen Building Supply page 19 First Weber Realty page 17 Fishtales page 47 Gateway Lodge page 9 Gogebic Community College page 21 Gogebic Community Mental Health Authority pages 13,15 Gogebic Range Trail Authority page 11 Gooches 2 Bar and Grill page 33 Great Northern Motel/ Wolf’s Den Restaurant page 25 Haven North Condos page 24 Headwater’s Polaris page 9 Hitt’s Fine Furniture page 11
Hoop N’ Holler Tavern HOPE Animal Shelter Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce Ironwood Area Chamber of Commerce Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus Jane Carlson-Ballone/ The Real Estate Store Joany’s Sidekicks Knitt’s Hardware Konteka Black Bear Resort and Dining Koski Collision Krupp’s Mini Mart Lac Vieux Desert Health Center Lake Gogebic Motel & Sled Rental Larry’s Fish Fry Lazy Ace Saloon Leather & Gift Legendary Waters Casino Liberty Way Tap House Maki Insurance Agency Marenisco Township Merritt’s Travel Center Michigan State Police Post 86 Mike’s Family Restaurant Nanette’s Knits and Gifts Northern Highland Sports Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church Pat’s Motor Sports Pit Stop Bar and Grill The Porkies Ski Hill
Winter Fun and Dining Guide This visitors and dining guide is published annually by the Daily Globe Inc.
Writing, photography and design: P.J. Glisson, Larry Holcombe, Megan Hughes, Jason Juno, Tom LaVenture, Zachary Marano and Charity Smith.
For more information about this guide or other products from the Daily Globe, visit yourdailyglobe.com, call 906-932-2211 or email: • Sue Mizell, Publisher, smizell@yourdailyglobe.com • Larry Holcombe, Managing Editor, lholcombe@yourdailyglobe.com • Heidi Ofstad, Advertising Manager, hofstad@yourdailyglobe.com
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Quality Inn-Ironwood Randall Bakery The Real Estate Store Remax Action North Realty Retreat Bar and Grill Rhinelander Airport Rigoni’s Bakery River’s Edge Lodge and Outfitters The Root Cellar Bar, Dining and Lodging Saari Snowplowing and Lawn Care Salem and Zion Lutheran Churches Settler’s Co-op Sharon’s Coffee Company Sisu Skifest SS Sport Store Inc. St. Mary of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church Steigers Ace Hardware Stormy Kromer Suffolk Street Eatery Superior Holistics & Boutique Tacconelli’s To Go Tastes of Wisconsin Timbers Resort Timberline Sports United Dreams Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails Yooper Delights Yooper Diner Your Place Rental Zak’s Realty
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Welcome to Winter Wonderland The Gogebic Range is full of natural beauty all year around, but its deep snow winters remain the most popular time of the year for visitors. Snowmobilers, downhill skiers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers find a myriad of winter playland opportunities. More than 400 miles of constantly groomed snowmobile trails, an array of alpine ski resorts, many kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails and an abundance of wilderness to snowshoe through await outdoor enthusiasts. A long weekend of fun in the snow won’t be enough for any family — plan a week on the Gogebic Range and visit the many shops and restaurants that dot the main streets of Ironwood, Hurley, Bessemer, Wakefield and surrounding towns. Take in a rare treat at one of Ironwood’s live theaters — many shows are performed by local talent. Discover the area’s rich history and how it turned from rugged wilderness where immigrant miners and loggers carved out a life in bustling communities in the 1880s, to the quaint smalltown America it has become by touring one or all of the
local history museums. The Iron County Historical Society’s Museum is open ‘yearround in Hurley and downtown Ironwood features a museum in Depot Park. Skiers can try one hill after another or choose the one that suits them best, including the college-run Mt. Zion on the campus of Gogebic Community College, Big Powderhorn Mountain, Indianhead, Blackjack, Whitecap or the Porcupine Mountains. Bundle up and go inside to the Pat O’Donnell Civic Center, also on the college campus. The civic center has open ice-skating hours throughout the winter. A snack bar is available. While on the GCC campus, try snow tubing down Mt. Zion. There are lodging options for any budget or taste and eateries found nowhere else. Seeing and experiencing the Gogebic Range covered with snow is proof that family vacations don’t require beaches and warm temperatures. Rather than hibernating through winter, embrace and enjoy the season and its snow at any number of events or venues across the Gogebic Range. Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 5
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Big Snow Resort Indianhead Mountain Resort & Blackjack Ski Area Big Snow Resort encompasses two adjacent ski hills that skiers can utilize with the price of one ski pass. A complimentary shuttle runs between the two resorts. Indianhead Mountain near Wake-
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field and Blackjack ski area near Bessemer, together boast 57 runs and 15 chair lifts between them including a magic carpet conveyor style lift to tow skiers and snowboards uphill while standing on their skis and boards.
Big Snow is popular with regional skiers who know they can count on snow each year with the unique Upper Peninsula weather system that proContinued on page 8
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Sales, Service, Parts & Rentals Located 1 Mile East of Hurley, WI
Snowmobiles • ATVs • PWC
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300 E. Cloverland Dr. • Ironwood, MI 49938
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Warning: Polaris® off-road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protective clothing.Always use seat belts and cab nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. All riders should take a safety training course. Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2019 Polaris Industries Inc.
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duces an average annual snowfall of more than 17 feet. Even a low snow year will often mean there is still more snow at Big Snow resort than in nearby states. Big Snow Resort has 400 acres of skiable area along with terrain parks. There is something for everyone to make the resorts an ideal family destination vacation.
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There are also lessons available for skiers and snowboarders with a terrain based learning area and enhanced snow features to place the resort among the best places for the beginner skier. The experienced skiers will enjoy the enhancements to the tree skiing runs. Snowmobilers will also enjoy Big Snow Resort with motorized trails that run through both resorts. There are snowmobile rentals at Blackjack.
Indianhead features a swimming pool, hot tub and sauna and weekend bonfires in the courtyard. Many families plan their skiing trips to coincide with the annual events at Big Snow Resort. The New Year’s Eve party and fireworks are always popular and include the torchlight parade of resort staff. The party includes a buffet dinner, kids events, a teen dance and an adult party with live music from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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Welcome To Land O’ Lakes/Watersmeet www.belair-motel.com bob@belair-motel.com
Your Hosts: Bob & Cheri Hughes 4163 Country Rd. B Land O’Lakes, WI 54540
715-547-3347
Come Back to Tradition
• Open year ‘round • Adjacent to airport, golf course, ATV, bicycle trails & snowmobile trails • Indoor heated pool, hot tub and redwood sauna • Lounge & Restaurant on site
We offer clean comfortable 100% non-smoking rooms at very affordable prices. All of our rooms have self-controlled heating, Dish TV, tub/shower, fridge, microwave, clock & FREE WIFI.
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next to Snowmobile & ATV/UTV trails
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(800) 848-8058 or (715) 547-3321 www.gateway-lodge.com
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Big Powderhorn Mountain
Advertised as the “ski capital of the Midwest,” Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers 253 acres for skiing. The trails have three difficulty levels, ranging from novice, more difficult to most difficult. The ski runs can be accessed through nine double chairlifts and a beginner handle tow. The day skier departments are in the Gun Barrel Lodge next to the ski lifts. An 11-yearold building occupying 20,000 square feet, the main lodge also has a bar and restaurant on its third floor. Ski lessons are available at the Gun Barrel Lodge. An introductory package includes lessons, rentals and lift tickets. Lessons can span from one to two hours or more. There is also a beginner’s area near the ski lifts at the base of the mountain. During the 2020-2021 winter season, the outdoor patio between the Gun Barrel and Caribou Lodge was expanded to accommodate more outdoor events.
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The resort also moved their sun decks to more accessible locations so they would see more use. The first sun deck is now located next to the finish line on the race hill and is expected to become quite popular when there are races. The other sun deck
was moved to the top of lift 8 and now offers a much better view of the mountains. The resort features more than 40 Continued on page 12
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We would like to give thanks to all of our
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ski homes available for rental, ranging from one to six bedrooms. Many of them are located trailside for easy access. Big Powderhorn also has three wine huts that can be rented for the day with wood stoves, fireplaces and decks. The mountain resort will be open this year and will follow recommendations from the State of Michigan and the Western U.P. Health Department regarding COVID-19. Depending on the circumstances, Big Powderhorn may bring back its food takeout service app that will allow visitors to order food from the Caribou Lodge, Hideout Bar and Grill and the Gun Barrel Cafeteria. Big Powderhorn produces artificial snow and was still able to offer a 100day ski season last winter despite low snowfall, so the mountain resort will be able to offer much entertainment for skiers and snowmobilers regardless of the weather. For more information, call 800-501SNOW.
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Whitecap Mountains
Whitecap Mountain Ski Resort in Upson, Wis., features 43 ski runs across three different mountains, four chairlifts and two tow ropes. Spanning 400 acres, the resort offers ski runs for skiers of all ages and experience levels. Whitecap Mountain gives the resort its name and is the only one of the three mountains visible from the chalet and hotel. Great for anyone looking for an introductory ski run, Whitecap provides an opportunity for visitors to get an idea of what the resort has to offer. Thunderhead Mountain is another introductory-level hill that is perfect for families. Several intertwining runs allow skiers to move from run to run depending on the angle of sun, direction of the wind and the weather. On the other hand, Eagle’s Nest Mountain has a double black diamond expert-level trail which some would argue is one of the toughest ski runs in all of Wisconsin. Its wooded trails Page 14 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
also provide a great e introduction to glade skiing. The resort’s Wine Hut is located between the Midway and North Pole life stations and is an all-time favorite gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Food, wine and hot drinks are offered at the hut, as well as a wood
stove. The resort hotel has more than 100 rooms with plenty of options, including lofts, attached kitchens and jacuzzi suites. Most base packages include Continued on page 15
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two queen-sized beds, but more than a dozen rooms were recently upgraded to have a king-sized and a queen-sized bed. The hotel also includes a bar, restaurant, pool and hot tub. Trailside condominiums with ski-in and -out lodging are also an option. The Glades of Glory race debuted at the ski resort in the 2020-2021 winter season and will be held again in Feb. 2022. Expert glade skiers will face one another in a headto-head race down steep, wooded terrain in the “Gouge” across from the Wine Hut, and the winners will advance to the next race in a single-elimination bracket. The event will be open to spectators. Visit whitecapresort.com for more details.
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Mt. Zion Ski Area Gogebic Community College
The Mt. Zion Ski Area is located on Gogebic Community College’s Ironwood campus, and will open in mid-December for the 2021-2022 season. It is the oldest recreational complex in Big Snow Country, dating back to 1937. It is known for skiing for all ages and family fun. Many locals learned to ski here. The hill is the home of the college’s ski area management program, which is one of only two such programs in the nation. Student’s in the SAM program run all aspects of the ski area from the renting skis, lift operations, grooming, snow making to ski instruction. This gives the students valuable skills and experience for future employment in the field. The college recently spent $130,000 on renovations to upgrade the computer system for the hill and build a new pump house, and purchase new snow making guns. The new computer system allows the students to know how much water is being pumped onto the hill and how much returns. It is also able to calculate how many cubic feet of snow is produced. They are now able to program it for dry or wet snow and the snow guns adjust themselves for the correct amount of water. The system allows for the snow guns to turn themselves on and off at certain temperatures and times. Prior to the new system workers had to adjust everything manually. Ski lessons at affordable rates are a very large part of the Mt. Zion ski area. The hill attracts around 8,000 students each year. Mt. Zion will bring back elementary in-
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struction programs for fourth, fifth and sixth graders at Ironwood Area Schools this season, as well as a tiny tot course Thursday and Friday afternoons children 5 to 8 years old. Tiny tot class enrollment is limited. Along with the slopes, Mt. Zion features a tubing hill and a terrain park for tricks. Ski racing is also popular on Mt. Zion, especially with young skiers. Races and programming with start in January. GCC students are able to ski and snowboard for free, as are those 62 and older. The facility will have expanded hours during the Christmas break. Mt. Zion will be open seven days a week during that period, but will close on Christmas Day. The SAM Program also manages the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park ski hill. Through the SAM program students receive technical and academic study and internships at major ski resorts throughout the country. SAM students earn credits through onsite training classes such as ski are layout, snow making fundamentals, emergency response, slope grooming, and classroom courses such as business. Graduates of the program may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in ski area business management through an agreement with Northern Michigan University in Marquette. For more information visit gogebic.edu.
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Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Gogebic County
Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails in Ironwood offers 24K of ski trails, including several loops, for classic striding and skate skiing. There are five marked snowshoe trails and 7K of snow bike trails. Lake-effect snow provides the area with snow that tends to arrive earlier, pile deeper, and last longer than anywhere else in the Midwest. The rolling terrain offers trails for all levels of skiing, snowshoeing and snow biking. Ski and snowshoe trails can be accessed at the chalet trailhead at 5851 Sunset Road. There is also a trailhead behind Aspirus Ironwood Hospital. The Snow Summit Road trailhead provides access to snow bike trails, as well as ski and snowshoe trails. The warming chalet offers a view of the historic wooden ski jump structure that was part of the club’s original activities. Wolverine will abide by Michigan State COVID-19 protocol when the warming chalet is open. Wolverine Nordic Ski Club volunteers maintain and groom the trail system. This nonprofit group promotes Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking and lifelong physical fitness. The club also supports youth ski and other programs in area schools and community organizations, including a women’s learn-to-ski event. Wolverine will again hold the Individual Snowshoe Challenge for 2 weeks from Feb. 5-Feb. 26. The annual Yooperbeiner Snowshoe Race-Walk has been canceled again this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Donations and membership fees help to maintain and groom trails, to service equipment and facilities, and to provide operating funds. For more information, visit wolveri-
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nenordic.com, call 906-932-0509, or email wolverinenordic@gmail.com.
ABR Trails Active Backwoods Retreats Trails are located in Erwin Township south of Ironwood at E. 5299 W. Pioneer Road. Operated by Eric Anderson and Angela Santini, ABR offers 94K of trails groomed for classic and skating styles. The trails run through woods and along the Montreal River in the area of Ironwood’s Norrie Park. Dogs are welcome on dog trails, which are designated on ABR’s map. Snowshoe trails totaling 10K also exist, along with opportunities for skijoring with dogs. A range of fee options are available, along with lodging accommodations, ranging from rustic cabins to luxury houses. Trails open at 9 a.m. seven days a week during the ski season. Trails close between 4 to 6 p.m., depending upon when it gets dark. Due to COVID-19 protocols, visitors will be welcome to buy tickets from the driveway ticket booth on busy days or from a walk-up window at the chalet. Ski equipment can be rented or purchased at ABR’s ski shop, which will re-
quire masks and social distancing. The chalet’s back room and indoor restroom will not be open. Concessions will not be available. The chalet also will not offer bag storage or warming or change areas. The wax barn will be closed. An outdoor water faucet will be available to fill water bottles, but day skiers and campers must bring their own bottles. A small, unheated building to the south will offer two open changing areas — one for men and one for women. An unheated warehouse will offer six portable potties, including two larger units for persons with disabilities. Three warming cabins along the trail will be open for emergency use. ABR Trails typically is part of the annual SISU Ski Fest. See sisuskifest.com for details. See abrski.com for details, continuing news, and possible changing conditions. Iron Belle Trail The continued growth of the Iron Belle Trail gives winter silent sport enthusiasts one more option when explorcontinued on page 20
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ing the western Upper Peninsula. So far, the trail runs more than nine miles from the Montreal River, bordering Hurley and Ironwood, to Ramsay Road in Ramsay. Open to snowshoeing and backcountry cross-country skiing, this trail will be difficult for traditional cross-country skiers due to much of it being ungroomed. The trail, which follows the old Soo Line Railroad right-of-way, runs mostly through wooded areas, but it crosses numerous intersections that offer multiple access points, so as to tailor the length of the excursion. The trail experience is enhanced by crossings over historic, old railroad bridges. The Depot Park Trailhead is at 150 N. Lowell St. in downtown Ironwood. The Moore Street Trailhead is just south of the stop light on U.S. 2 in Bessemer, and the Ramsay Trailhead is across Ramsay Road from Memorial Park and the Keystone Bridge. A volunteer groomer does plan to groom the section from Bessemer to approximately Country Club Road. This section has been described as a flat tract that will be ideal for entry-level cross-country skiers. It also should be good for experts who wish to practice their double-poling technique on a flat, fast course. Sometimes referred to locally as the Western Gateway Trail, it is the western end of a more grandly schemed Iron Belle Trail, which promoters hope eventually will link Ironwood to Belle Isle Park in Detroit. Friends of the Iron Belle Trail, composed of local trail enthusiasts, help to maintain the trail and also coordinate occasional trail activities. They also have a Facebook page. The trail is also part of what organizers hope becomes a regional trail system that is planned to run between ski trails in Montreal, Wisconsin, and Sunday Lake in Wakefield, with spurs connecting to other trails and points of interest locally and in northern Wisconsin. Miners Memorial Heritage Park The Miners Memorial Heritage Park Page 20 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
offers quick and easy access to crosscountry skiing and snowshoe trails in the center of Ironwood. The main trail entry is located at the Ironwood K-12 School’s baseball field at 775 E. Ayer St. Skiers can choose from two connected skiing loops for a quick ski on one of the loops or a combined 3-mile (5K) trail at any time of day or night. Headlamps are recommended for night skiing. The Red Devil and Pabst Blue Ribbon Snowshoe Trails cover 2.8 miles (4.5K). The park includes former iron ore mining sites. For more information, visit fmmhp.com. Watch the site and local media for information regarding the park’s annual Candlelight Snowshoe & Ski.
Wakefield Trails The Split Rock Trails Association has a trail system available for snowshoeing in Wakefield. Depending on volunteer help, the trails are tracked, but not formally groomed. For this year’s trail access point, call the city of Wakefield at 906-229-5131. Although there are no groomed trails at the city’s Eddy Park, on Sunday Lake, some local residents also snowshoe in that area.
Watersmeet On the eastern end of Gogebic County, Watersmeet offers rolling hills and what it promises is “some of the best cross-country skiing in the Midwest.” Snowshoeing is allowed on some of the trails. Call 906-358-4766 for more information. The Ottawa National Forest Visitor Center in Watersmeet has a small selection of free snowshoes, with which to explore an “interpretive trail” within the forest on that property. Call the Ottawa Interpretive Association at 906-3584724 for more information about the trail, which is four-tenths of a mile and described as easy to intermediate. The center also offer ski conditions.
Sylvania Wilderness As a unique portion of the Ottawa Forest, the Sylvania Wilderness includes more than 18,000 acres of property that is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The Sylvania Wilderness provides 26 miles of ungroomed trails that feature old growth forests along a myriad of lakes. Many of the trails connect with two groomed trails outside the wilderness (the Sylvania Wilderness Outfitcontinued on page 22
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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 21
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ters Ski Trails in Michigan and the Land O’Lakes Ski Trails in Wisconsin). The Sylvania Wilderness website warns that cell phones rarely work in the wilderness. It recommends that all persons exploring the trails take with them the following survival equipment: a good topographical map and compass, water and high-energy trail food, appropriate cold weather clothing, a first aid kit, whistle, flashlight, pocketknife, waterproof matches, lighter, and a candle for use as an emergency fire starter. For more information, visit the Sylvania Wilderness website. Lake Gogebic According to the Lake Gogebic Chamber of Commerce, the Lake Gogebic State Park also has cross-country ski trails on the west side of the lake, off of M-64. For more information, call the park at 906-842-3341.
Ontonagon County, Michigan
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park On the shore of Lake Superior, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers 42K of cross-country ski trails, as well as snowshoeing throughout the park. Skis and snowshoes are available for rent at the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area chalet, which also includes fireplaces and
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a café during open hours on long weekends. Describing the region as “wild and gorgeous,” the park website notes the following three major options: —Ski Area Trails: These trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, but snowshoers may use the same paths as long as they stay to the side of the groomed portion. A variety of loop lengths are available via Nonesuch Trail, Log Camp Trail, Deer Yard Trail, etc. Big Hemlock Trail offers views of Lake Superior, and Union Spring Trail includes Michigan’s secondlargest natural spring. —Lake of the Clouds: M-107, also known as 107th Engineers Memorial Highway, leads to Lake of the Clouds, a mustsee viewing area for many tourists. Its access road is not open in winter, but a snowmobile trail leads to the lookout, and snowshoers may walk next to that trail, which park officials warn includes a “serious climb.” —Backcountry Trekking: The overall park includes 60,000 acres of forest and waterfalls. Park officials, however, warn snowshoers to be mindful of the dangers in exploring the forest without the benefit of a groomed path. Persons wishing guidance in their adventures may register for free two-hour snowshoe hikes that start with a chairlift up the Porkies Ski Hill by calling 906-885-5206. The park also offers candlelit snowshoe hikes with bonfire breaks. For general trail information, call 906-885-5272 or 906-8855209, or see the Porkies website. continued on page 23
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Bergland The 3.2-mile Bergland Ski Trail is one mile north of Bergland, off M-64. According to the Ottawa National Forest website, the trail promises “scenic hardwoods and pockets of hemlock,” along with the possibility of seeing white-tailed deer, other winter mammals and songbirds. An auxiliary trail loop of 3.4 miles includes hills and short slopes of medium difficulty. The trail is groomed on a weatherpermitting basis, and skiers are encouraged to call the Ontonagon Ranger District at 906-884-2085 for grooming conditions. The Bergland Ski Trail includes no warming hut.
Welcome To Wakefield
Mass City Located in Greenland Township, Mass City lies in the foothills of the Porcupine Mountains and offers a cross-country ski trail that includes parts of the Ottawa National Forest. According to the ONF, the Old Grade Ski Trail — considered easy to intermediate — is located at Courtney Lake, eight miles east of Mass City on M-38. This 4.2-mile long trail includes mild slopes and parts of a historic, wooded railroad grade that was used for logging during the turn of the century. The trail is groomed and tracked on a weekly basis and provides a shorter two-mile loop as well. Before using this trail, which has no warming hut, call the Ontonagon Ranger District at 906-884-2085 for a status report.
Iron County, Wisconsin
MECCA The MECCA Ski Club (Mercer Cross-Country Association) in Mercer, Wis., maintains 21K of cross-country skiing trails groomed regularly for classic and freestyle techniques. Terrain is suitable for those of all abilities. The trails also include three miles of looped, ungroomed snowshoe trails through forest and wetlands. The two-mile Mercer Springs Trail connects with the one-mile Klondike Trail. The MECCA Cabin Trailhead, at 4686N Fierick Road, is a full log chalet that is heated by a wood stove and includes benches, tables, a wax bench, changing room and vault toilets. The chalet is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the winter season. The Flowage Trailhead, off Joe’s Shack Road, is at Little Turtle Flowage and Waterfowl Management area, maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. There is a porta potty in the parking lot. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, policies will include social distancing, wearing a mask/face covering in the chalet, and limiting occupancy to six people at a time. No coffee or hot chocolate will be offered. The vault toilet will be cleaned once daily. Policies will be updated and posted in the chalet and at www.meccatrails.com. The virtual MECCA Trails Winterfest will be on Feb. 5, 2022 with virtual options. The Winterfest will offer three skiing races
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and the Mercer Springs Snowshoe Tour. The ski races will include the Flowage 15K Freestyle, the Turtle River Pursuit (11K Classic and 11K skate legs), and the Claire de Loon 5K. The annual MECCA Candlelight Ski, Shoe, Hike event will be on Jan. 29 at 5 p.m. There will be a bonfire at this outdoor event. Dogs are allowed on trails as long as they are accompanied by well-behaved companions trained to pick up after them. MECCA trails are on 500 acres owned by the town of Mercer, Mercer Sanitary District, Iron County Forestry and Parks, the state of Wisconsin. MECCA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that is community-focused and volunteer-driven. For more information regarding trail conditions and events go to MECCATrails.com.
Uller Trail Uller Trail runs through the Penokee Range in northern Iron County and is billed as the most isolated ski trail in Wisconsin. Skiing with a companion is recommended along this 19K trail system described as “hilly and remote.” There is a trailhead and parking area in Upson at Weber Lake at the base of Whitecap Mountains downhill ski resort, just off County E. Heading east from that trailhead are a series of three loops. These loops, constructed in 2017 and 2018,
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provide 6.8K of groomed trails in the beautiful Penokee Range. A log cabin warming house was added to this part of the Uller Trail in 2019. True back-country skiing is available, extending east from the loops. The main stem of the Uller trail runs west to east, terminating at the Hoyt Road Trailhead, located north of Wisconsin 77, between Pence and Iron Belt. The Krankkala Spur begins at the Lagoon Trailhead, located just north of Iron Belt, and runs north 3.5K to the main stem. Snowshoers are welcome on the Uller, but are asked to respect the set track by staying to the sides of the trail. Maintenance and grooming are done by the Iron County Forestry Department and the Penokee Rangers, a volunteer organization. Donations are accepted for trail upkeep. For more information, visit norwiski.com or skinnyski.com. Montreal Nordic Ski Trails Montreal Nordic Ski Trails, in the former mining company town of Montreal, Wis., range from easy to quite difficult. Interpretive signs along the trail explain many mining infrastructure developments that still exist. Trails will be extensively groomed during the 2021-22 season to provide quality winter outdoor recreation opportunities. Easiest access to this 15K trail system is from the old city hall parking lot on Wisconsin 77, along the west branch of the Montreal River. The Penokee Rangers groom these trails. Donation boxes are located throughout the trail system. For more information, visit norwiski.com or skinnyski.com.
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Snowmobiling
The Gogebic Range Trail Authority exits the pandemic era having used the time to make tremendous gains and improvements to their inventory of groomers, trails and a clubhouse as part of managing more than 100 miles of snowmobile trails and 16 miles of ORV trails. The western Upper Peninsula and northeast Wisconsin offer scenic and well maintained snowmobiling trails. There are literally hundreds of miles of groomed and rustic trails that run along former rail grade, wooded settings, frozen lakes and streams and scenic mountain vistas. Despite a rare winter with the lowest amount of snow in decades in 2020-21, riders from around the region still flocked to the GRTA trail system where volunteers were still able Page 26 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
to groom more than 7,000 miles of trails to keep the county a snowmobile destination location. Trail users can follow the club’s daily and sometimes hourly communications on social media for up to the minute trail reports. By far the biggest news for winter 2021-22 is the opening of a brand new 7.5-mile section of Snowmobile Trail 2, which is also home to the Stateline ORV route. This newly opened former rail grade trail adds a new 10-mile loop into the system and brings Snowmobile Trail 2 directly into Wakefield from the east to save riders a tremendous amounts of time. Trail 2 is being renumbered to Trail 11 from Korpela Road to the Old M-28 intersection with Trail 8. Trail 2 will now come into the city of Wakefield
Gogebic County from the south before crossing back north to Sunday Lake via the trail’s historic route. Trail 8 will now continue into Wakefield where it will end at the southwest corner of Sunday Lake. Trail 11S remains open from the Trail 2 intersection just east of Wakefield and goes south to Winchester, Wisconsin. GRTA continues work with local landowners to install a permanent snowmobile Trail 2 crossing over U.S. 2 that eliminates the use of Bluebird lane. Trail 2 has also seen major improvements east of Bessemer thanks to spoils from local road work being used to raise the trail bed. The end of Trail 160 is Superior Falls, a massive waterfalls complex continued on page 28
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all leading into Lake Superior. This is truly a must-visit site when riding the furthest western snowmobile trail the state of Michigan has to offer. Gogebic County Forest’s Powers Road Recreational Area with incredible views of Lake Superior and Bald Mountain. The trail starts its descent down to Lake Superior at the Montreal Gorge, a 200-foot deep gorge with the Montreal River oxbow below, separating Michigan and Wisconsin. GRTA projects over the summer include construction to re-build a 16foot metal teepee structure that will be used as a public warming shelter on Bald Mountain. This location takes
riders to Copper Peak where the warming shelter provides dynamic views of the Gogebic Range in Michigan and the Penokee Range in Wisconsin. The GRTA continues to operate as one of the area’s most prolific all-volunteer clubs with a core group of folks who just seem to show up daily. This crew of men and women volunteer thousands of hours every year in hopes riders will see their community with the same beauty they do. Visit the GRTA website for updates, activities and trail information at gogebicrangeta.org and on Facebook.
Lake Gogebic Trails Shared by Gogebic and Ontonagon counties, Lake Gogebic offers a
wealth of snowmobiling trails in the lake region. The Bergland-based Lake Gogebic Area Groomers maintain over 50 miles of groomed trails. For more information visit gogebicareagrooming.com and for trail routes visit lakegogebic.com/16-2.
Watersmeet The Watersmeet-based Thunder Riders Snowmobile Club works to provide groomed snowmobile trails on national, state and private forest land in that area. Sometimes referred to as the Watersmeet Thunder Riders, the club advises riders to learn the restrictions for operating snowmobiles onand-off roads within the Ottawa National Forest.
Snowmobiling Ontonagon County Snowmobiling has been a growing sport in Ontonagon, and, depending on how much snow and where it falls can be a boon to the local economy. From the north end of the county near Lake Superior to trails around Lake Gogebic on the south end of the county, snowmobilers are able to access some of the most beautiful parts of the state deep in the northwoods, as well as many businesses catering to their needs. There are several restaurants, lodging options and other businesses keyed up for snowmobilers around Lake Gogebic. The North Country Snowmobile Club is vital to keeping snowmobiling viable through part of the county. The group grooms 109 miles of trails that range from two-thirds down the South Boundary Road up the Lake of the Clouds, to Ontonagon, from White Pine, into Greenland and Rockland.
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Snowmobilers depend on groomed trails and the economy depends on snowmobilers, according to NCSC president Mack McCaughn. Groomer drivers often spend as much as 12 hours a day or night making the trails good for people in and outside the area. He hopes others will join the grooming corps, adding the club is flexible as to how many hours and in what areas drivers would like to operate. He said that anyone interested in helping with the grooming will be trained on the machine if necessary. “With more groomers we could groom more trails and that would be a plus for visitors as well as locals,” he added. The group also spends time brushing trails during the off season. “We need snow, groomers and supporters so we can welcome in the right way the thousands of winter visitors who select the area to visit this winter,” McCaughn said.
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Snowmobiling
With Hurley and Mercer serving as hubs, Iron County offers more than 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Annual snowfall often exceeds 200 inches. The county serves as a snowmobiling center with trails connecting to Vilas, Price and Ashland counties in Wisconsin and to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. With plenty of lodging and snowmobile rentals, the county comes alive with sleds during snowy winter weekends. Snow-blanketed forests filled with the sights and sounds of the Wisconsin Northwoods are what attract many snowmobilers to Iron County. The scenic trails here are groomed by the Iron County Forestry & Parks Department, along with the White Thunder Riders and the Mercer SnoGoers. The Thunder Riders, who are known for their charitable donations, list regular events at whitethunderriders.com.
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Iron County, Wis.
The Mercer Sno-Goers also host numerous events listed at mercersnogoers.com. One of the most anticipated is the club’s Winter Blast, which will be on Jan. 16, 2021, at its Mercer Snowmobile Barn.
Iron County Snowmobiling Trails From the Iron Horse Trail in Hurley, the ride to Saxon and Gurney covers 12 miles, with places to stop for gas, food and refreshments along the way. A ride on Trail 3 to Saxon Harbor, with its spectacular view of Lake Superior, is a pleasant diversion for the avid snowmobiler. A journey on Trail 17 guides riders south of Hurley along the Michigan border past beautiful Pine Lake. The trail crosses many rivers and creeks, offering excellent viewing of wildlife and the natural splendor common to Iron County. Heading farther south, the same trail leads to Mercer, the Loon Capital of the World and a bustling
small town eager to welcome riders. Trail 77 takes a southwestern course through the rich, historic mining towns of Montreal, Pence and Iron Belt, with a unique opportunity to view the Plummer Mine headframe, the only remaining such structure in Wisconsin. From there, a choice trail of interest is Corridor 8, which travels west of Mercer, past the Lake of the Falls scenic area and the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. This trail meanders through beautifully wooded, well-groomed trails. Also in southern Iron County, Springstead, on Trail 182, welcomes riders to enjoy well-marked trails that wander through dense, snow-covered forests for a unique winter experience. For 24-hour snow reports on Iron County trails, call 715-476-SNOW (7669). The reports are updated every Wednesday at noon.
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Jack Frost Festival
The Jack Frost Festival is series of events that take place over a two and a half month period to celebrate winter in the Western Upper Peninsula. Although many events were canceled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s festival is back in full swing, according to the Ironwood Chamber of Commerce. The festival will kick off with the annual tree-lighting ceremony at the Ironwood Depot Park on Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. Refreshments will be provided before the ceremony which will include a carol sing-along. Music will also be provided by the Luther L. Wright High School choir. On Nov. 19, the Gogebic Range Honors Band Concert will hold a concert at the Historic Ironwood Theatre at 7 p.m. A Warren Miller ski film will be shown at the Historic Ironwood Theatre on Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. The event is a fundraiser for the Gogebic Range Ski team. Dec. 3 will be Customer Appreciation Day at Ironwood’s St. Vincent De Paul from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 will be “Frost Friday,” as city officials and downtown merchants celebrate the month’s First Friday. Businesses will be open late and the Historic Ironwood Theatre will show the Christmas movie “Joulutarina” at 7:30 p.m. The 2007 Finnish film tells the story of how a boy named Nikolas grew up to be Santa Claus. The NoEL — short for Northern Elves — Holiday Market will take place Dec. 3 and 4 at the Incredible Bank and other downtown businesses. On Dec. 4, NoEL will host its second annual ice carving event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Downtown City Square. The carvings will remain on display until they melt. Santa and Mrs Claus will visit with children at Incredible Bank from 1 to 3 p.m. on Dec. 4. Also on Dec. 4, the Historic Ironwood Theatre will show the classic Page 32 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
Christmas movie, “Miracle on 34th Street,” at 4 p.m. The Ironwood Carnegie Library will hold a open house from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The Jack Frost Festival of Lights Parade will take place that evening at 6 p.m. Beforehand, the annual NoEL Santa Dash will start at 5:30 in front of the Ironwood Carnegie Library and go to the end of the parade route. Participants pay a small fee to wear a paper Santa costume and fake beard to run in the event. After the parade, the Gogebic Range Concert Band will perform at 7:30 p.m at the Historic Ironwood Theatre. The “King of the Hill” snow-cross racing will take place at Mt. Zion on Dec. 4-6. It will feature 26 classes. For more information, visit midwestsnocross.com. The Ironwood Area Middle and High School Christmas Concert will take place at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, 2 p.m. on Dec. 5.
The Historic Ironwood Theatre Christmas Show will take place at 7 p.m. on Dec. 11. and 2 p.m. on Dec. 12. On Dec. 18, Luther L. Wright’s Accent show choir will perform at 7 p.m., at the Historic Ironwood Theatre. The ISO Vintage Snowmobile Races at the Gogebic County Fairgrounds will be held Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. On Jan. 7-9, the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus is scheduled to take place at the fairgrounds Also on Jan. 7-9 the Sisu Nordic Ski Festival will take place. Registration will be at the Memorial Building on Jan. 7; races are on Jan. 8 beginning at ABR Trails and ending downtown, and on Jan. 9 there will be a fat tire bike event. It all wraps up on Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. with the annual Norrie Club “Light Up the Night” Christmas tree burn. The club collects and burns used Christmas trees in a giant bonfire.
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715-385-2300 10359 Main St., Boulder Junction, WI 54512
12436 Hwy W, Presque Isle, WI
(715) 686-2575
OPEN AT NOON-Closed Mondays
Ice Fishing Tournament January 15th, 7am-6pm Located on Trail 6
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6215 Hwy. M, Boulder Jct., WI 54512 (3 miles North of Boulder Jct) • 715-385-9288
Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 33
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Snowmobile Olympus
The Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus races are slated to return to the Gogebic County Fairgrounds’ fast half-mile track this winter. The ISO Vintage is scheduled for Dec. 31, 2021 to Jan. 1, 2022. The USSA races are going to be held Jan. 7-9, 2022. According to organizers, the fastest sleds on ice with speeds in excess of 100 mph take part in these races. The first oval snowmobile race at the Gogebic County Fairgrounds was held in December of 1968. The races there for the next 15 years were billed as “one of the premier snowmobile oval races in all of North America.” In 1975, T.J. Patrick, a talented Junior class driver from Page 34 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
Illinois, won the first Governor’s Cup — the event’s top prize. The event has come and gone since then, but they’ve been held more consistently of late with only the 2020 races missed due to the pandemic. Pro Vintage Racing began in 1995 as organizers looked to create an event to let racers and fans alike “step back in time” and reminisce as they rev up their favorite racing machines of the past for more racing on the ice oval. The Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus races are at the Fairgrounds on the west side of Ironwood, on U.S. 2. The event’s website is ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com and they post updates to their Facebook page.
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907-319-9030 • 119 S. Suffolk St., Ironwood, MI Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 35
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Sisu Ski Fest
The Sisu Ski Fest is back for 2022. Races range from the 5K Hauska Hiinto Fun Ski to the 15K Heikki Lunta and the event’s signature race, the 30K Sisu. The event begins at ABR Trails and will finish in a new location this year, Ironwood’s new Downtown City Square. “Racers can expect well groomed trails that pass through forested landscapes, ups and downs among rocky outcrops, gentle sections along the Montreal River and a former railroad grade, and a few twists and turn through the Miners Memorial Heritage Park,” according to sisuskifest.com. Organizers are hoping to hold the event as close to normal as possible, but they are monitoring covid impacts and they promised to keep racers updated on any potential changes.
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Events are scheduled for Jan. 7-9 with the races on Saturday, Jan. 8. Awards will be handed out at the Memorial Building at 1 p.m. Pasties will be available from there for in-person dining or to-go. They are planning to hold the annual party at the Ironwood Theatre Saturday evening with music by Black River Blues Band. The Depot Dash for kids age 10 and under will be Jan. 7 at Depot Park. A fat bike ride will be hosted on Jan. 9. It’s a chance for people to learn about the new mountain bike trails at Miners Memorial Heritage Park. Register for the race at sisuskifest.com. The price keeps going up as the event gets closer. Visit sisuskifest.com for more information.
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Ice Fishing The Ottawa National Forest has more than 500 named lakes to ice fish. Ice fishing on lakes within the Ottawa is permitted, except on Slyvania Wilderness special provision lakes. Very few roads which lead to lakes on the forest are plowed, however, during the winter. Anglers need to be familiar with all rules and regulations related to fees, seasons, species and licensing by obtaining a Michigan fishing guide. Snowmobilers must be in accordance with the motor vehicle rules of the forest. Generally, spring (May-June) is the best time for lake fishing on the Ottawa; summer (July-August) is somewhat slower, with fall (September-October) somewhere in between. Stream fishing for lake-run salmon and steelhead usually picks up around April 1 with streams with an extended troutsalmon season, such as on the East Branch of the Ontonagon River, north of M-28, or those with no closed season. The best fishing on those streams starts around mid-September and lasts until the snow flies. Stream fishing for resident trout is generally best near the end of the legal season, especially for brook trout, which start upstream migration around this time. Walleyes and crappies tend to bite best under low light conditions (early morning, late evenings and overcast days). Fish for bass, crappies, pike and panfish near logs, brush or in weedy areas. In bright sunlight, and after storms or cold snaps, most fish tend to go deeper and are harder to get to bite. Use live bait, and fish deeper and slower under those conditions. There are a range of ice fishing tournaments throughout the Western Upper Peninsula, including the annual Sunday Lake ice fishing tournament planned for Feb. 13 during Michigan’s free fishing weekend.
Mercer In 2022, two ice fishing tournaments in January and February are expected to draw people from all over the region. The Mercer Lions Club Ice Fishing Jamboree at Mercer’s Carow Park is always a popular event, with this season’s date set for Feb. 12. The Turtle Flambeau Flowage Ice Fishing Jamboree, formerly known as the Claus Kraetke Memorial Ice Fishing Jamboree, is scheduled to be held on Feb. 26 at Donner’s Bay Resort. Check the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce’s website
for the latest information on ice fishing tournaments in the Mercer area.
Hurley, Gile Ice fishing offers more great opportunities. With several inland lakes in northern Iron County, anglers of all ages enjoy this winter sport. The area often hosts a number of ice fishing tournaments for locals and visitors to the region. This fishing season, look for the Bank Club’s will host the 5th annual Ice Fishing Jamboree on the Gile Flowage and Willy’s Still to host the Island Lake Fishing Tournament.
Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 37
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Wisconsin Winter Fun Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce A visit to the Hurley area offers a variety of recreational opportunities including hunting, fishing, motorized and nonmotorized trails, cross country and downhill skiing, snow shoeing, hiking and more. With significant snowfall, we have ice on the 214 inland lakes including the Gile Flowage. Spanning over 3380 acres with a maximum depth of 27 feet, the flowage is home to walleye, smallmouth bass, muskie, northern pike, crappie, bluegill and perch. Saxon Harbor is located along the shoreline of Lake Superior and is beautiful at any time of the year. Hurley and surrounding communities were established in the late 1800s, when mining and logging were a way of life. A tourist destination, the area is known for fun, food and friends. Even on the coldest, snowiest of days, there is plenty of activity to keep anyone busy. The Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce promotes local activities and provides maps to guide you through the miles of trails, both motorized and non-motorized. Follow the chamber on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with current events and details. The chamber website, hurleywi.com, offers a complete up-to-date calendar of events. Ice fishing is the best way to get out and explore Hurley’s inland lakes. With the abundance of inland lakes in northern
Iron County, anglers of all ages can enjoy this winter sport. Ice fishing tournaments are a family friendly activity where lifelong memories will be made. In January, the Bank Club will host its fifth annual Ice Fishing Jamboree on Gile Flowage. Also in January, Willy’s Still will host an Island Lake Fishing Tournament. With plenty of scenic outdoor area for everyone to get out and enjoy, the Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce can help visitors find places to go tubing, skating, snowshoeing, snowboarding and skiing.
Mercer Chamber of Commerce
As the “Loon Capital of the World,” Mercer is no stranger to tourists. But even though the town’s thousands of loons spend the chilliest months in tropical sites, the town continues to offer a wide variety of events through the winter for visitors and residents, alike. The Mercer Chamber of Commerce will host a day of Christmas holiday activities on Dec. 5, including the traditional placing of a wreath around the town’s Claire de Loon statue next to the chamber office on U.S. 51. The continuing Candy Cane Christmas Celebration will consist of several activities in the afternoon and early evening. A Candy Cane parade will move down the main street, followed by a baking contest, a toy and food drive, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Mercer Community Center. A Candy Cane Court from Mercer School will preside over the entire event, which will include warm beverages and other refreshments. Mercer features about 105 lakes and a large portion of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. These bodies of water provide great opportunities for year-round fishing and related tournaments. Ice fishing tournaments are popular events in the northwoods. The Mercer Lions Ice Fishing Jamboree will be held Feb. 12 on Grand Portage Lake. On Feb. 26, the Turtle Page 38 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
Flambeau Flowage Ice Fishing Tournament will be held at Donner’s Bay Resort on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. Cash prizes will be given for the largest fish in several categories. Raffles, food and beverages, will complete the day. Winter skating occurs on Margaret Street between the Mercer School and the Mercer Public Library. A warming hut provides breaks from chilly temperatures. The Mercer Public Library offers a winter respite with its charming reading room, which includes a fireplace and soft seating. For more information, visit mercercc.com.
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KONTEKA Black Bear Resort White Pine, Michigan
OPEN at 8am for Breakfast - 7 Days a Week
906•884•8500 Hurricane Performance Dealer
Featuring... GAS & CONVENIENCE STORE • Michigan Lottery, Keno • ATV Trail Permits • Fishing & Hunting Licenses
THE BLACK BEAR RESTAURANT Kitchen open 8am til 10pm (EST) • Friday Fish Fry • Saturday Prime Rib
THE BLACK BEAR LOUNGE • Full service Bar • Dazzling Dance Floor • Giant Flat Screen Satellite TV
THE BLACK BEAR LANES 8 lane Bowling Alley
THE BLACK BEAR MOTEL
All Non-smoking rooms!
Auto & Light Truck Repair Powersports – Snowmobile/UTV/ATV Repair Small Engine Repair/Lawn & Garden Husqvarna – Full Sales & Service Amsoil and Advantage Duragard Lubricant Distributor – Full Line of Synthetic Oils Interstate Battery Dealer Retail – Full Line of Clothing & Accessories 1035 W. State Hwy. M64, Ontonagon, MI
Also available on-site... WIFI, Verizon Extender, ATM, Gift Shop, laundry facility, convenient parking for all trucks & trailers
64 & Main - PO Box 675 White Pine, Michigan 49971
906-885-5170
www.thekonteka.com
Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 39
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Pat O’Donnell Civic Center
The opening of the new Patrick O’Donnell Civic Center in October will ensure that indoor winter events are more fun than ever along with providing an all-year multipurpose venue, adjacent to Gogebic Community College at E4972 Jackson Road in Ironwood. The project to replace the original civic center started in early 2019 when record snowfall led to structural damage. A temporary dome over the rink allowed for the 2019-2020 winter season, and with construction recently completed for a replacement facility that was designed to improve user experience. The updates include improved climate control, lighting and sound. A new concessions area includes lobby seating with a television showing the action on the ice, along with windows to ob-
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serve skiers and tubers on nearby Mount Zion. The rink now has an upper level observation lounge for guests to watch the action on the rink from the comfort of a heated room behind plexiglass windows. The lobby and upper level rooms are available for meetings and events as is the entire facility for everything from convention to sports events and concerts. The arena seating is now equipped with a handicap accessible elevator. It is there to assist people in wheelchairs or anyone who would have difficulty with the stairs to the spectator bleachers area. The rink will also have open skating hours and skate rentals for the general public. Civic center employees are trained to sharpen ice skates and a
digital jukebox will allow skaters to play their favorite music while having fun on the ice during open skating hours. The new amenities mean the facility may serve other functions from concerts and other entertainment events. The civic center is available for public rentals for reunions, wedding receptions, conferences or any number of events that need anything from a small room to the entire arena space. The civic center is home of the Ice Crystals Figure Skating Club, which holds annual performances and events. The Polar Bear Hockey program also uses the arena for youth hockey practices, regular season games and tournaments. For more information call 906-9320602 or visit the Pat O’Donnell Civic Center Facebook page.
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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 41
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Places of Worship
MICHIGAN
IRONWOOD Apostolic Lutheran. 326 W. Aurora. Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Sunday School, 10 a.m. Bible Study, 10:45 a.m. worship, Wednesday, Bible Study, 7 p.m. Assembly of God. 2100 E. Cloverland Drive. Worship, 10 a.m. Immanuel Lutheran (Missouri). Little Girl’s Point, Saturday worship, 2 p.m.
Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church
Weekend Masses
Saturday at 4 P.M. Sunday at 8 & 11 A.M.
Jehovah’s Witnesses. 1112 Superior. Sunday, public talk, 9:30 a.m., Watchtower study, 10:30 a.m. Lighthouse Faith Center. 301 E. Aurora St.; Sunday worship, 10 a.m.; Wednesday Bible study, 6:30 p.m. Living Water Missionary Assembly. 236 S. Mansfield. Sunday, lwmissionary.org, 906-364-0235. Our Lady of Peace Catholic. 108 S. Marquette. Saturday confession, 11 a.m. to noon; Mass, 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 8 and 11 a.m. St. John Lutheran (ELCA). E5071 Airport Road, Ironwood Township. Service on third Sunday of the month at 9 a.m. St. Paul Lutheran (ELCA). 111 S. Curry. Worship with Holy Communion, 10 a.m., followed by fellowship. St. Simon Eastern Orthodox. 226 E. Harding. Sunday, liturgy, 10 a.m. 906-932-0674. Salem Lutheran (ELCA). 333 E. Aurora. Services first and third Sundays of the month, 9 a.m. Transfiguration, Episcopal. 336 E. Aurora. Sunday, 11 a.m. Trinity Lutheran (Missouri). E5104 Margaret. Sunday worship, 9 a.m. Wesley United Methodist. 500 E. McLeod. Sunday, service, 10 a.m. wesleyumcironwood.org. Woodland Church (Converge Baptist). N10234 Curry. Thursday Bible study, 9:30 a.m.; Sunday worship, 10 a.m.; fellowship to follow. 906-9321102 or woodlandcc.org. Zion Lutheran (ELCA). 100 W. Midland. Saturday praise worship, 5 p.m; Sunday services, second and fourth Sundays of the month, 9 a.m. BERGLAND Calvary Baptist (Fundamental). Sunday, 11 a.m.; Wednesday prayer service, 7 p.m. St. Ann Catholic. Sunday, Mass, 10:45 a.m.
Salem & Zion Lutheran Churches Salem - 1st & 3rd Sundays at 9am
Supper and a Service Wednesday at 5:15pm
All Saints Little Lamb Child Care
108 S. Marquette St., Ironwood, MI • 906-932-0174 • olop.homestead.com
Kindergarten, 4K and Preschool Year round childcare for Infants-4 years old Open to students of all faiths!
106 S. Marquette Street • Ironwood, MI 49938 • (906) 932-3200 Page 42 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
333 E. Aurora St., Ironwood, MI
Zion - 2nd & 4th Sundays at 9am
Praise Service Saturday at 5pm 100 W. Midland St., Ironwood, MI
Worship with Us ~ Services will be Live Streamed on our Websites and Facebook pages Members • salemlutheranironwood.com ELCA • zionlutheranchurchironwood.org
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Trinity Lutheran (Missouri). Sunday, 9 a.m.; Bible studies, Sunday, 6 p.m. and Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. United Methodist. Sunday, 11 a.m. Communion first Sunday. BESSEMER Christ Community Church of SDA. 507 E. Cinnabar. Saturday, 11 a.m., Sabbath school, 9:30 a.m.; Wednesday prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m. Our Redeemer Lutheran (Missouri). E8223 Sanders Road. Sunday, worship, 10:30 a.m.; Bible studies, Wednesday, 6:30 pm. and Thursday, 10:30 a.m. St. Sebastian Catholic. Saturday Mass, 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 8:30 a.m. Sharon Lutheran (ELCA). Sunday worship, 8:30 a.m. with fellowship following. BRUCE CROSSING Apostolic Lutheran. Sunday School, noon, worship, 1 p.m. Communion second Sunday. Bruce Crossing Bible. Sunday 10 a.m. EDT; adult Sunday school to follow. Bethany Lutheran (Wisconsin). Sunday, 5 p.m. EWEN First Lutheran (ELCA). Rotating every third Sunday, 11 a.m. Wednesday, children’s Bible school, 3:30. Part of New Evangelical Parish. 906-988-2594. Sacred Heart Catholic. Mass 4 p.m. Saturday United Methodist. Sunday worship, 9:30 a.m. Communion, first Sunday. GREENLAND United Methodist. Sunday worship, 11:40 a.m. Greenland Seventh-day Adventist. 31369 N. Firesteel. Saturday church service, 10 a.m. Bible study, Saturday, 11:15 a.m. MARENISCO St. Catherine’s Catholic. Sunday Mass, 1 p.m. MASS CITY St. Paul’s Lutheran. Sunday, 10:30 a.m. Weekly Communion. ONTONAGON Assembly of God. Sunday school, 9:45 a.m., Sunday worship, 10:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday, youth group and adult Bible study, 6:30 p.m. Holy Family Catholic. Michigan Avenue and Pine Street. Daily Masses: Monday, 9 a.m.; Tuesday, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.; confessions, Saturday, 11 a.m., and half an hour before each Mass. Redeemer Free Lutheran. Sunday worship, 9 a.m., Sunday school, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 7 p.m. St. Paul Lutheran (Missouri). 107 E. River St. Sunday worship, 9 a.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 10 a.m., church school, 3:30-5 p.m. Siloa Lutheran (ELCA). Sunday worship, 9 a.m.; church school, Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. 906-884-2655. United Methodist. Sunday, 9 a.m., Contemporary worship, 7 p.m. PAYNESVILLE Our Saviour Lutheran (ELCA). Rotating every third Sunday, 11 a.m. Part of New Evangelical Parish. 906-988-2594. RAMSAY Cornerstone Christian. Sunday worship, 9:30 a.m., children’s church, following worship; Revelation (young adults), meets second and fourth Sundays at 6 p.m. Grace Open Fellowship. 9 a.m., worship, 9:30 a.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m. ROCKLAND St. Mary’s Catholic. Saturday: confessions, 5:30 p.m.; Mass, 6 p.m. St. Paul United Methodist. Sunday worship, 10:30 a.m. TROUT CREEK Assembly of God. Sunday worship, 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Trinity Lutheran (ELCA). Rotating every third Sunday, 11 a.m. Part of New Evangelical Parish. 906-988-2594. United Presbyterian. Sunday worship, 11 a.m.; communion, first Sunday of the month. WAINOLA Lutheran. Saturday, 5 p.m. Communion, first and third Saturdays. WAKEFIELD All Saints Lutheran (ELCA). Saturday worship, 5 p.m.; Sunday worship, 10:30 a.m. Calvary Baptist. Sunday school, 10 a.m., Sunday worship, 11 a.m.; afternoon service, 1:30 p.m.; Wednesday, prayer and praise, 6 p.m. Immaculate Conception Catholic. Saturday Mass, 6 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 10:30 a.m. United Methodist. Sunday service, 12:30 p.m. WATERSMEET Immaculate Conception Catholic. Saturday Mass, 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 9:30 a.m. Watersmeet Bible Church. Sunday worship, 10:30 a.m.; men’s and ladies’ Bible study, Wednesday, 6 p.m. WHITE PINE St. Jude Catholic. Sunday: Mass, 12 p.m. (noon) Community United Methodist. Sunday, worship, 10 a.m.
WISCONSIN
HURLEY First Presbyterian. Sunday, 9:30 a.m. worship, Sunday school and nursery. Havenwood Baptist. 501 Copper. Prayer, 9:30 a.m., Sunday school, 10 a.m., services, 11 a.m., lunch and afternoon service following. Range Community Bible. Worship, 10 a.m. St. Mary’s Catholic. Saturday Mass, 4 p.m., Sunday Mass, 7 and 11 a.m., Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, 8 a.m., Thursday, 8 a.m., Friday, 8 a.m. St. Paul’s Lutheran (Wisconsin). Sunday school, 9:45 a.m.; worship, 11 a.m.; Thursday adult Bible class, 5 p.m. KIMBALL Good Shepherd Community Apostolic Lutheran. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m., Sunday Bible study 10 a.m. Communion first Sunday. LAC DU FLAMBEAU Bible Baptist. Sunday, 10 a.m. St. Anthony’s Catholic. Saturday Mass, 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 9:30 a.m. LAND O’LAKES Hope Lutheran (Missouri). 1764 U.S. 45, just north of County B. Divine service, Sunday, 9:30 a.m.; Bible study, call 906-544-2259 or visit hopelcms@alphacomm.net for schedule. Land O’ Lakes Bible. 5937 U.S. 45. Sunday school 9 a.m.; Sunday worship, 10 a.m.; Sunday afternoon prayer, 5 p.m.; Thursday table talk and Bible study 6:30 p.m. 715-547-3183. MERCER Community Church of Nazarene. Sunday, worship, 10 a.m. Faith Lutheran (Missouri). Sunday, worship, 9 a.m., Bible study, 10:30 a.m. St. Isaac Jogues Catholic. Masses Sunday, 11 a.m.; Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. United Methodist. Worship in person or via Zoom, Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Call Martha at 715-776-3993 or email pierponm@hotmail.com for virtual invitation. Zion Lutheran (Wisconsin). Sunday, 9 a.m., Bible class, 10:15 a.m. PRESQUE ISLE Bethel Lutheran (Missouri). Sunday, 11 a.m. St. Rita’s Catholic. Saturday, confessions, 3:30 p.m., Mass, 4 p.m.; Sunday Mass, 9 a.m. SAXON St. Ann’s Catholic. Sunday Mass, 8:45 a.m.;
Fr. Hrudaya Raju Sunkara
All Are Welcome - Worship With Us: Monday - 8am Communion Service Tuesday - 5:30pm Mass Saturday - 4pm Vigil Mass Wed., Thurs., Fri. - 8am Mass Sunday - 7am & 11am Mass Sunday - 8:45am Saxon, WI
St. Mary’s church has several involved ministries: We have a group of dedicated lectors, Eucharistic ministers, altar servers and several lay ministers. We have an active communion distribution group for shut-ins and nursing homes and they provide many other ministries. We also have committed Pastoral and Finance Councils in place. We have an active Music Ministry, as well as a Religious Education, Youth Ministry and Adult Bible Study.
St. Mary’s is a warm, welcoming, faith community.
404 Iron Street, Hurley, Wisconsin 54534 • 715-561-2606
Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 43
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Calendar of Events
Open skating offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Pat O’Donnell Civic Center, Ironwood Township. NOVEMBER 18: Old Depot Tree Lighting Ceremony at Depot Park, Ironwood, 6 p.m. 19: Gogebic Range Honors Band concert at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, 7 p.m. 20: Hurley Booster Club Christmas Craft Fair, Hurley K-12 School, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 27: Warren Miller Ski Film “Winter Starts Now” at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, 6 p.m.
DECEMBER 1: Snowmobile trails open in Michigan, weather permitting. 3: “Frost Friday” in Downtown Ironwood. Businesses open late with the Historic Ironwood Theatre showing “Joulutarina” at 7:30 p.m. 3: St. Vincent DePaul Customer Appreciation Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Features Christmas display and treats. 3-5: “Hometown Christmas” in Ontonagon. Parade, community tree trimming, dance, crafts and fireworks. 4: NoEl Ice Carving event, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ironwood Downtown Square. 4: Santa and Mrs. Clause visit the Incredible Bank in Ironwood, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 4: Historic Ironwood Theatre Christmas Movie “Miracle on 34th Street”, 4 p.m. 4: Ironwood Carnegie Library open house, 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. 4: NoEL Santa Dash, starts in front of the Ironwood Carnegie Library at 5:30 p.m. 4: Jack Frost Festival of Lights parade, 6 p.m. in downtown Ironwood. 4: Gogebic Range Concert Band at the Historic Ironwood Theatre following the Festival of Lights parade, 7:30 p.m., Ironwood. 4: Christmas Craft Walk, Ontonagon Area High School, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 4: Mercer Community Christmas and Candy Cane Parade 4-6: “King of the Hill” Snow Cross racing at Mt. Zion in Ironwood. midwestsnocross.com 11: Historic Ironwood Theatre Christmas Show, 7 p.m. 11: Ladies Learn to Ski, 9 a.m. to noon, Wolverine Ski Trails, lesson for all ability levels. wolverinenordic.com 12: Historic Ironwood Theatre Christmas Show, 2 p.m. 12: Santa Claus at the Iron County Memorial Building, noon, Hurley, Wis. 19: Santa visits Mercer at 2 p.m. and driving around the town. For route go to visitashland.com/events/santa-sightings. 29: Chili Cook-Off at the Mercer Discovery Center, 11 a.m.2 p.m.. Date is tentative, features all the fixins. Register by Page 44 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
calling the Discovery center at 715-543-2085. Mercer,Wis. 29: Winter Family Play Day, Mercer, Wis., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features horse-drawn sleigh rides, scavenger hunts, crafts and more. Dec. 31-Jan 1: Snowmobile Olympus. Pro-Vintage snowmobile racing, Gogebic County Fairgrounds, Ironwood, ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com.
JANUARY 7-9: Snomobile Olympus USSA Pro-Star snowmobile racing. Gogebic County Fairgrounds, Ironwood, ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com. 7-9: Sisu Ski Fest, races start at ABR Trails, all races finish in Historic Downtown Ironwood. sisuskifest.com 15: 15th annual Mercer Sno-Goers Winter Blast, 9 a.m., Groomer Barn, Mercer. 29: “Light Up the Night” Christmas tree burning event, Norrie Amateur Sports Club, 7 p.m.
FEBRUARY 5: Frozen Tozen Ice Fishing Tournament, Boulder Lake, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit boulderjct.org or call 715-385-2400. 5-26: Wolverine Snowshoe Challenge+, includes opportunities for biking and skiing. Wolverine Nordic Snowshoe Trails, Ironwood Township,. Feb 5-26. wolverinenordic.com 12: Mercer Lions Club Ice Fishing Jamboree, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Carow Park. 19: Book Across the Bay, 6 p.m., 10K Classic and skateskiing event, travels from Ashland, Wis., to Washburn, Wis., batb.org. 19: Glades of Glory Race, Whitecap Mountains Resort.
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Time To EAT!
Stop by & enjoy our daily specials
Also serving Shakes, Malts, Sundaes & Cones
112 W. Aurora St., Ironwood, MI • 906-675-8390 • Mon.-Sun. 7am-4pm
Family Restaurant
Celebrating 50 years in business! Thanks for Your Patronage! See us for all your Fresh:
• Homemade Specials Every Day • American & Italian Dishes • Homemade Hand-Dipped Fish Fry Friday
• Breads • Rolls • Pastries • Pasties • • Cookies • Pies • Cupcakes •
FOOD SO GOOD, YOU’LL THINK WE STOLE YOUR MAMA!
~Take Outs Available~ CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS www.mikesironwood.com
906-932-0555
106 E. Cloverland Dr., Ironwood, MI
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-5pm; Sat. 7am-3pm 110 S. Suffolk St. Downtown Ironwood
906-932-3810
“Best BBQ in the Northwoods”
BESSEMER!
ALL MEAT SMOKED ON PREMISES
As Good As It Gets!
We now have an off-premise liquor license. Purchase your favorite beer, wine or wine cooler & enjoy at home.
~ Lots of NEW ITEMS ~ ~ We have all your OLD FAVORITES ~ DELIVERY or CARRY OUT ~ Lunch & Dinner Delivery Mon.-Fri. - OPEN at 11am; Sat. & Sun. Open at 1pm West U.S. 2 & Massie St., Bessemer – Next to the Bessemer VFW
906-663-9900
Check out the rest of our menu & happenings at: LazyAceSaloon.com Open 6 Days a Week at 11am, Closed Tues. • Daily Specials Located on Trail 17 Trailer Parking Available Hwy. 51 & 47, 3 miles south of Mercer • 715-476-2257
“More than just a coffee shop”
Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee, Bakery, Cocktails Private Parties and Catering
ORDER YOUR CHRISTMAS COOKIES EARLY!
122 Silver Street • Hurley, WI 54534
Call 715-561-5500 for Reservations!
Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 45
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Fried Chicken, Burgers, Pasta & the Best Fish Fry in the Northwoods
Carry Out • Dine In • Catering • Online Ordering Delivery by Iron Bay Delivery
The Eatery is bringing Big Bold Flavors and Charming Hospitality to Historic Downtown Ironwood… Our Products are Locally Sourced, Hand Crafted and Prepared with Passion. We offer Chef Inspired… Signature Paninis, Superior Deli Sandwiches, Wraps, Homemade Soups, Fresh Salads, Daily & Weekly Specials, Events, Catering and More…
Open Wed.-Sat. at 4pm
Closest full service restaurant to Copper Peak, Black River Harbor and Little Girls Point
(Next to Powderhorn Village)
N11582 Black River Rd., Bessemer, MI • 906-364-7477
VOTED BEST
BURGER IN THE NORTHWOODS BY OUR CUSTOMERS 7 NIMIKON • GILE, WI 54525
715-561-2767
BURGERSBARHURLEY.COM Home of the famous silk panties shots!
Joany’s
Sidekicks
Hwy. 77, Iron Belt, WI (7 short miles W. Hurley) 715-561-5515
SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
~DAILY SPECIALS~
Our Menu is Influenced & Created by Our Life…
Homemade Soups, Pasties & Specialty Sandwiches Pressure Fried Chicken - Homemade Italian Pastas & Pizzas Fri. Night - Haddock, Perch, Blue Gill & Shrimp Sat. Night - Roasted Prime Rib in 3 sizes & Baby Back Ribs
Live with Love, Walk with Peace, Eat with Passion
Sweet Amenities, Privacy & Nature Offering 2 Vacation Rentals in Ironwood, MI
TUESDAY - SATURDAY 11AM-6PM
JOEL & ROBBIE SARDINHA – PROPRIETORS 113 South Suffolk St., Ironwood, MI 49938
906-285-7138
MENU AVAILABLE ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE Page 46 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
Full Homemade Soup & Salad Bar, Sides & Fresh Italian bread with all Specials & Dinners
Thee Western U.P.’s only “Bed & Baker y ” Th • Bakery Breakfast Included • Convenient Location • Dog Friendly # 5.0 Super Host
N10587 Lake Road • (715)305-7483 • Ironwood, MI
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VISIT MARENISCO/LAKE GOGEBIC e Welcom to Marenisco Township, with a land and water area of approximately 330 square miles, is located in Gogebic County in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is the second largest township in the state of Michigan.
Large tracts of land within the township are located in the Ottawa National Forest and in Commercial Forest Reserve and allows public access to well over a hundred thousand acres of these resources.
314 Hall St., Marenisco
– NEW OWNERS –
The Best Kept Secret on Lake Gogebic Bar - Dining - Lodging
906-787-2463
BEST OF LAKE GOGEBIC
• Spacious Rooms • Waterfront Cottages • CLEAN, FRIENDLY & AFFORDABLE
GREAT HUNTING ~ BETTER FISHING ~ BEST SNOWMOBILING LUNCH • DINNER (Call for Hours)
Best Meals on Lake Gogebic
N10596 STATE HWY. M-64 • MARENISCO, MI 49947
www.fishtalesup.net
906-842-3366
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Lake Gogebic Motel LOCATED ON BEAUTIFUL LAKE GOGEBIC 1, 2, 3 BEDROOM CABINS • FIREPLACES DISHWASHERS • PRIVATE HOT TUBS LIVE BAIT • TACKLE • TRAIL PERMITS LICENSES • HUNTING & FISHING SNOWMOBILING
(906) 842-3361 • Barry (Bear) & Tricia Drews
ninepinesresort.com • 2 miles south of State Park
Sled & SXS Rentals
Located right in Bergland, MI on Highway M-28
Fishing • Hunting • Sightseeing • Snowmobiling Direct access to Snowmobile and ORV Trails
OWNER: Casey Yesney
Reservations: 906-575-3262 OPEN DAILY Trail Access Right To Our Door
JANE CARLSON-BALLONE
Michigan/Wisconsin REALTOR Main: (906) 285-2082 Office: (906) 932-5406 Fax: (906) 932-3303 Email: janeballone@alphacomm.net 527 N. Lake Street, Ironwood, MI 49938 upnorthproperty.com
Rentals
205 205Ash AshSt., St.,Bergland, Bergland,MI MI
ski-doo
Service Dealer
Hwy M-28, Bergland, MI 49910 www.timberlinesport.com 2 miles W. of Bergland on the north end of Lake Gogebic on trails 1 and 8
Hoop ‘N Holler Tavern On Beautiful Lake Gogebic VOTED People’s Choice #1 “Best Pit Stop” & Best Area Restaurant on Trip Advisor
• Full Menu • Drinks • Free Wifi • RV Sites w/Full Hook-ups • Clothing • Gas FURTHEST WEST BAR IN EASTERN TIME ZONE Your Hosts: George & Carolyn Maves Merriweather, MI 49949 • (906) 575-5555 Page 48 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide
9906-575-3581 06-575-3581
SERVING BREAKFAST DAILY • FRIDAY FISH FRY • DAILY SPECIALS
BAIT & TACKLE STORE – OPEN 8AM-8PM EST ~ Call for earlier or later times~
PHONE: (906) 575-3542 • Ice Fishing • Ice & Firewood Snowmobile Rentals • Pets Welcome • Snowmobile • Centrally Located to all Trail Permits Trails and Waterfalls, • Trail Access Including Popular Attractions and Events • Deluxe Fishing Boat & Pontoon Rentals • Less than a minutes • Walleye Guide Service from Fuel, Restaurants, Boat Landing and more • Free WIFI
OPEN YEAR ROUND
34275 Hwy 28, Bergland, MI 49910 Email: fishhuntstay@thetimberresort.com www.thetimbersresort.com