If you've got that Finnish SISU spirit and love cross-country skiing, Ironwood's Ski Fest is your event. Just don't ask this downhill skier to explain the appeal.

The days leading up to Thanksgiving 2025 were not for the faint of heart. We received about 30 inches of snow before Thursday, and what is normally a straightforward 4.5-hour drive to the cities became a perilous trek we wisely decided to avoid.

Why is there so much snow here? I mean, all jokes aside, 90% of the reason I moved here was to chase the snow. The UP sees an average of 300 inches each winter, so I knew what I was getting myself into. What I didn’t know was how fast it would all happen.

Discover the Iron County Farmers Market, where Yoopers turn rocky soil into fresh produce, baked goods, and small-batch treats. From farm-fresh eggs to melt-in-your-mouth candies, every visit supports local makers and keeps your fridge stocked with the best the U.P. has to offer.

On the first Friday of October, small towns across Michigan's Upper Peninsula and the Lower Mitten gather to celebrate plaid.