Once the snow sticks, Atlanta becomes a trail town. Hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails connect towns, forests, and frozen lakes across the region, and Atlanta, Michigan sits right in the middle of some of the best riding in the Lower Peninsula.
The Trail Network
Montmorency County is part of Michigan's extensive state snowmobile trail system. The main north-south snowmobile trail runs within 5 miles of Atlanta, connecting riders to a network that stretches from the Mackinac Bridge down through the heart of the state.
In addition to the groomed snowmobile trails, the area offers over 100 miles of designated ORV/ATV trails that many riders use in winter conditions as well. The trails wind through the Mackinaw State Forest, passing through pine stands, hardwood ridges, and along frozen creeks.
What Makes This Area Special
- Snow reliability: Northern Montmorency County typically gets solid snow cover from late December through March. The area's elevation and northern latitude help maintain trail conditions longer than southern Michigan.
- Low traffic: This isn't Grayling or Houghton Lake. The trails here are less crowded, especially midweek. You can ride for miles without seeing another sled.
- Scenic terrain: The trails pass through some of the most beautiful forest in the Lower Peninsula — tall pines, frozen wetlands, and rolling hills.
- Town-to-town riding: The trail system connects Atlanta to Lewiston, Hillman, and beyond. Gas up, grab lunch in town, and ride back — it's how the locals do it.
Planning Your Trip
Season: Mid-December through mid-March is typical, but snow conditions vary year to year. Check the Michigan DNR snowmobile trail conditions report before you go.
Permits: You'll need a valid Michigan snowmobile trail permit. These can be purchased at local gas stations, online through the Michigan DNR, or at the Secretary of State office.
Fuel & supplies: Atlanta has gas stations and a small general store. Lewiston (20 minutes by road, accessible by trail) has more options. Top off your tank before heading into the backcountry — some trail loops are long.
ATV riders: The same area offers over 100 miles of state-designated ORV trails open year-round. Many of the same trails that snowmobilers use in winter are ATV trails in summer and fall. It's a four-season riding destination.
Skiing & Other Winter Activities
Not a snowmobiler? No problem. Treetops Resort in Gaylord (35 minutes) offers downhill skiing and snowboarding. Otsego Resort, also near Gaylord, is another option. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available on state land trails right outside your door.
And honestly, some of the best winter days involve none of that — just sitting by the fireplace with a book while snow falls on the frozen lake outside your window.
After a Day on the Trails
A day of riding in sub-freezing temperatures works up a serious appetite. Coming back to a warm cabin with a full kitchen, gas fireplace, and a fire pit beats any hotel lobby. Cook a real meal, dry out your gear, and plan tomorrow's route.
Your Winter Base Camp
Czech Mates Escape is a cozy lakeside cabin just minutes from the main trail system. Three bedrooms, sleeps 8, full kitchen, gas fireplace, and a fire pit for those clear winter nights. Bring your sleds — parking and unloading space available.
Book Your Winter Trip