by Debbie Butler

December 27, 2024

A Snowier Winter?

Last winter was a dud by most snow enthusiasts’ standards. Local business owners suffered the economic effects of fewer tourists in the winter of 2023-24. And skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers (especially) were sorely disappointed.

Our 75.75 inches of snowfall in the Keweenaw so far has made for a more promising forecast this winter. Though the last couple of days’ warmer weather has melted some of that total, the forecast for the next month promises colder temperatures and more snow.

Winter Beauty

As a daily outdoor walker, I love it when the sun is shining down on the snow and the sky is a bright blue against the green pines. On those days, it is truly a winter wonderland in the UP.

I can understand why tourists flock to our area in the winter. The snow seems to have a magical effect on the landscape. Looking down a snow-covered trail enshrined in a canopy of evergreens evokes a sense of wonder even in the most stoic of people. It makes you imagine you could run down the trail and enter a different world.

Speaking of Magical Worlds…

Snow statues from a past Michigan Tech Winter Carnival

The winter events in the UP are second to none. Take Michigan Tech’s annual Winter Carnival held in February—the snow statue competition in itself is a must-see experience. The painstakingly detailed construction of these statues allows visitors to walk into a different world with every icy scene.

Another entrance into a magical snowy world is the beginning of a walk in the woods’ silence. When all you hear is the crunching of the snow under your feet, you suddenly feel transported from the busy real world to another realm.

Predicting…

I’m cautiously optimistic that this winter will be more “normal” for us Yoopers. I certainly hope all of our local businesses experience a better financial winter season with more people coming to visit our beautiful spot—our winter wonderland.

I know for a fact I’ll continue to get out there and walk (or snowshoe) every day.