It may not seem like it at the moment, but time is running out for winter getaways to Northern Michigan, home to unique rafting excursions, scenic snowshoeing, and first-class cross-country skiing trails. Big Bear Adventures is conveniently located across the street from wintertime exploration at Burt Lake State Park and less than two miles down the road from the award-winning Northwoods Lodge. You’re always minutes away from memorable family fun in Michigan when you choose Big Bear Adventures!

Winter Rafting on the Sturgeon River

Big Bear Adventures is one of the only Michigan family getaways to provide winter rafting expeditions, a rare winter sport here in North America. After indulging in a steaming cup of Joe, Belgian waffles, and buttered toast at Northwoods Lodge, join a guided rafting trip down the crystal-clear Sturgeon River. Three winter rafting trips depart from Big Bear Adventures seven days a week. These 90-minute southbound trips meander past tall cedars, lush pines, and fresh, untraversed powder. You’ll have ample opportunities to spot deer, bald eagles, foxes, beavers, and even coyotes along the way.

Cross-Country Skiing at Wildwood Hills Pathway

There are several popular cross-country skiing locales near Indian River, MI, but we almost always direct our guests to nearby Wildwood Hills Pathway. These tranquil rolling hills are located inside the Mackinaw State Forest; thus a state park sticker is required. The pathway is somewhat tricky to find – you’ll find the west parking at these coordinates. Wildwood is little more than an old logging ghost town, but the surrounding wilderness is pristine, beautiful, and quiet. There are three well-marked, well-groomed interconnecting loops at Wildwood Hills Pathway – this trail guide illustrates the most popular options.

Snowshoeing at Seven Springs Nature Preserve

There’s a seemingly neverending snowshoeing wonderland in our tranquil neck of the woods, helping make the Indian River area one of the premier Michigan winter getaways. We have two favorite snowshoe spots here in Indian River just minutes from our deluxe Northern Michigan vacation rentals: Seven Springs Nature Preserve and Burt Lake State Park. Most tourists presume that Burt Lake is the best local snowshoeing destination, but Seven Springs is our go-to hidden gem. Seven Springs’ 65 acres rest on the northwest edge of town. This quiet nature preserve features 1.2 miles of snowshoeing trails as well as peaceful Burt Lake lookouts. Burt Lake State Park also has a one-mile lake trail, but it sees much more travel.

Deluxe Northern Michigan Vacation Rentals

Unlike many other Michigan winter getaways, Big Bear Adventures provides guided rafting trips, ski rentals, and snowshoe rentals. We’re also seconds away from untouched snowmobile-friendly powder and minutes away from fantastic ice fishing. We have lodging in Indian River, condo rentals in Harbor Springs, and Northern Michigan vacation rentals throughout the area. Visit us online, or give us a call today at 1-231-238-8181 to book a well-deserved family vacation with Big Bear Adventures!