St. Ignace is always in Season! Your Guide to a Year of Fun

In St. Ignace, Michigan, each season brings a fresh new vibe—from winter’s chill to spring’s fresh starts. Summer is all about lakeside fun and events that bring the community together. And fall? Fall is an explosion of color that will leave you in awe! 

No matter what time of year you visit, something new awaits in St. Ignace. Ready to make unforgettable memories? Keep on reading to discover your next escape — winter, spring, summer, or fall!

Winter Activities in St.Ignace

Winter in St. Ignace is a little bit of adventure and a lot of relaxation, whether the snow is falling or the sun is shining.

With a number of year-round hotels ready to welcome you, the perfect winter getaway is always waiting.

Get out into the weather this winter with hiking, fat-tire biking on the Silver Mountain Bike Trail, ice fishing, cross-country skiing — there’s a multitude of great trail choices. If the snow’s not that deep, head over to the Little Bear East Arena for indoor ice skating or drop-in hockey. Visitors are always welcome! 

The Annual Antique Snowmobile Bridge Crossing takes place every December in St. Ignace. This is where snow meets machine; where vintage snowmobile owners gather in Mackinaw City to cross the Mackinac Bridge on vintage snowmobiles. 

Snowmobile enthusiasts have another reason to visit St. Ignace in winter: access to one of the state’s best snowmobile trail networks. The groomed trails in this area connect to spectacular destinations across the Upper Peninsula. You could ride for days here!

Before hitting the trails, keep in mind that riders on Michigan’s designated snowmobile pathways need a permit, which can be purchased here. Get up-to-date trail condition information by visiting the Straits Area Snowmobile Club’s helpful Facebook page.

For even more outdoor winter activity, St. Ignace hosts the Labatt Blue Upper Peninsula Pond Hockey Championships in February. This annual event brings players and spectators together for classic outdoor pond hockey action. Interested in getting in on the action this year? All the deets on how to register your team can be found right here. 

Spring is a Breath of Fresh Air

In St. Ignace, springtime brings new energy — blooming wildflowers, migrating birds, and green forests awakening for the year. It’s a wonderful time to hit the trails, and there are plenty to explore whether you are hiking, biking, or just looking for a peaceful stroll.

Fishing fanatics love St. Ignace, especially in spring. When you visit this time of year, plan on major opportunities to reel in walleye, trout, and perch. The waters are abundant, and the views? Absolutely unbeatable!

Jeep the Mac rolls into town the beginning of May. You can watch as a colorful Jeep parade crosses the Mackinac Bridge (or bring your own Jeep to participate). The bridge crossing is followed by live music, food vendors, and camaraderie. And if off-road adventures are more your style, you will certainly find them in St. Ignace!

The Museum of Ojibwa Culture hosts the Native American Festival. Come to experience drumming, dancing, and storytelling while supporting local artisans and sampling delicious cuisine. 

Then, keep an eye out for Bronco the Mac, another bridge-crossing event that celebrates all things Ford Bronco.

Endless Summer in Northern Michigan

St. Ignace really shines in summer! The warm weather is perfect for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boating. Adventure seekers can explore the area’s shipwrecks through scuba diving, while families might enjoy a leisurely day on the beach, or a ferry ride to Mackinac Island. 

One of the highlights of summer, The St. Ignace Car Show Weekend showcases an incredible array of classic and custom vehicles. With special guests and speakers to make it fun for everyone, this event is definitely one to add to your list! 

Every evening in summer has something happening, and every Saturday night the skies over St. Ignace sparkle with Fireworks Over the Bay. For the Mini Cooper drivers and fans, St. Ignace will play host to Mini on the Mac.

Love art? The Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow and Indigenous Art Show brings together a traveling gallery of artwork from around the world alongside rich cultural traditions in one vibrant summer celebration. Experience the stories, dance, and history that continue to shape the region.

Friday afternoons in summer are for the Bayside Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, local goods, and unique finds. The Mackinac Bridge Walk is a beloved Labor Day tradition that draws thousands of participants from all over the state. 

Fall in St. Ignace: A Colorful Retreat

Fall is a feast for the senses in the Upper Peninsula. St. Ignace is surrounded by amazing forests that turn shades of red, orange, and gold during this glorious time of year. 

Experience that autumnal bliss by hiking, biking, or just taking a leisurely drive. The view from Castle Rock is especially awesome in fall. Take the climb in October for a treat — colorful foliage that stretches as far as the eye can see!

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