Instead of staying cooped up indoors this winter, why not step into a quieter kind of winter adventure? Newaygo County is the perfect place to stretch your legs on snow-covered trails by day and look up in awe once night falls. From peaceful woods to wide-open skies, we’ll show you exactly where to start.
Gear Up
First things first…will you be winter hiking or snowshoeing? If you’re new to either, stop by 37 North in Newaygo. They have everything you need for your outdoor adventure, including snowshoes for rental or purchase. Don’t forget to dress in layers. Winter wandering warms you up quickly, and having options keeps you comfortable from trailhead to twilight.
Dark Sky Magic
Winter brings some of the clearest night skies of the year, and Newaygo County’s rural landscapes make it easy to spot constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way on especially clear nights. Bundle up, bring a thermos, and let your daytime adventure drift naturally into an evening of quiet wonder under the stars.
Choose Your Trail
Newaygo County offers a diverse assortment of looped trails, each well-marked and ideal for winter hiking or snowshoeing. These are a few of our favorite places to wander when the woods are hushed with snow.
Coolbough Natural Area
Just outside of Newaygo, 400 acres of natural beauty await at Coolbough Natural Area. Looped trail options include the Wetland Loop with Old Rail Trail (1.87 miles), Cathedral Pines Loop (.67 miles), Prairie Loop (1.29 miles), and Valley of the Ants (.47 miles). The trail system also connects to the North Country Trail for those seeking a longer adventure. As daylight fades, the open areas here offer excellent opportunities to ease into evening sky viewing.
Hungerford Lake Trail
For a more ambitious winter trek, Hungerford Lake Trail features 7- and 12-mile loops marked with light blue diamond blazes. Difficulty levels are clearly posted, helping you plan your day with confidence. With minimal light pollution and long stretches of open forest, this area is a favorite for catching star-filled skies after sunset. Just be sure to plan ahead and hike out safely before dark or be sure to equip yourself for a nighttime hike.
Birch Grove Trail
Beginning at Diamond Lake Campground, this 9.8-mile loop follows forest roads, old railroad grades, and footpaths branching from the North Country Trail. It’s a wonderful choice for a full day of snowshoeing and an ideal area to linger near dusk for wide-sky views on clear winter nights.
Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary
Located northeast of Hesperia, this 1.5-mile loop is perfect for a pocket-sized adventure. The trail winds past a small lake, marsh, and wooded areas, with clear signage throughout. It’s an ideal option for first-time snowshoers, families with kids, or anyone planning to pair a short trek with an early evening of stargazing followed, of course, by hot toddies.
Time to Warm Up
After fresh air and starry skies, it’s time to head indoors and warm up with great food and friendly faces.
Koffee Kuppe – Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and pastries are all on the menu at the Koffee Kuppe. Heading out to the trails? Order a breakfast sandwich online for a quick pick up. Or dine in and warm up any time of the day with your favorite hot drinks or something savory.
Schindy’s at Diamond Lake – This welcoming spot north of White Cloud offers Michigan-made goods, hand-crafted pizza, and a wide selection of beer and wine. Enjoy the cozy interior or relax around their patio fire.
Brew Works – The Commons of Fremont is home to Brew Works where you can enjoy an impressive selection of craft beers, delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. While visiting the Commons, head to Tremont Lanes to bowl a few frames!
Need a Place to Stay?
Now that you have your winter getaway itinerary, all you need is a great place to stay. The Harrington Inn, Trailside, Muskegon River Inn, and Oakridge Motel each offer a welcoming and comfortable place throughout the year to rest your head before heading out for another day of winter exploration.
Now you know exactly where to find the perfect winter hike or snowshoe trek, clear night skies worth lingering for, and cozy places to warm up afterward. Grab your friends or family and head to Newaygo County to explore our frozen wonderland both day and night.
