Winter steers you into the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where Munising’s Ice Curtains invite hikers to follow frozen waterfalls sculpted by relentless cold. This hike stretches just over 3 miles round-trip, crossing forested trails crunched underfoot, demanding careful steps on uneven ice and snow. Elevation gains of roughly 200 feet keep pulses steady but manageable, offering views that reward both the effort and attention.

The trail leads you beneath towering pines, their needles dusted with frost like whispered warnings from the winter woods. The icy cliffs daringly spill frozen water, broad curtains where icicles cling and shift, alive in their stillness. Silent yet profoundly present, the ice here commands respect: slippery surfaces and shifting crust force you to move deliberately, pacing yourself with nature’s rhythm, not racing to the end.

Strap on microspikes for grip, keep your layers ready to peel or add as the wind can turn suddenly sharp, and bring water—you might not feel thirsty in the cold, but the effort of hiking in winter demands hydration. Early afternoons provide the warmest light, illuminating the ice's complex blues and crystal clarity. As you approach each waterfall, listen for the faint creaks beneath the frozen blankets, a reminder that these icy giants remain fiercely themselves, resisting thaw while shaping the landscape.

Plan for about 2-3 hours on trail, allowing time to explore different falls and soak in the quiet wilderness. The terrain ranges from firm-packed snow to sections with slick ice, so trekking poles are a wise companion. While the trail is accessible for intermediate adventurers, layered preparation ensures comfort and safety.

Munising’s frozen waterfalls are not just stops on a hike — they’re winter’s art pieces, sculpted by temperature swings and time. Approaching them means embracing the cold’s challenges while bearing witness to nature’s beautiful, unyielding force.