By The Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau
When the snow settles across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Sault Ste. Marie comes to life in a whole new way. Snowmobiles hum through town, trails sparkle under fresh powder, and the whole city feels tuned in to the rhythm of winter. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Soo makes it easy to gear up and ride out.
Trails That Keep You Moving
Sault Ste. Marie offers over 100 miles of well-maintained snowmobile trails—each one groomed daily and ready for just about every kind of rider. From smooth, beginner-friendly routes to faster tracks through the woods, there’s a path here for your pace.
Trail 49 is a local favorite, cutting through snow-covered forest and opening up to wide views of Lake Superior. Looking to cover more ground? Trail 8 connects the Sault to the rest of the U.P.’s massive snowmobile network, giving you access to hundreds of miles beyond the city.
Wherever you ride, the trails here feel like part of the adventure. One minute you’re weaving through quiet pine stands, the next you’re cruising across open fields under a big winter sky. Local grooming crews are out early each day, so you can count on fresh tracks every morning.
Snow You Can Count On
Sault Ste. Marie is known for reliable snow—and lots of it. Thanks to lake-effect storms off Lake Superior, the area averages around 120 inches of snowfall every winter. That means a long riding season that usually kicks off in December and keeps going strong through March.
While other places are waiting for snow to stick, the Sault is already out the door. Mornings bring fresh trails, quiet roads, and untouched powder just asking for first tracks. If you’re someone who likes to be out early, this is your kind of town.
Don’t Miss the I-500
Every February, Sault Ste. Marie becomes the center of the snowmobiling world with the annual I-500 Snowmobile Race. This 500-mile race—run on a one-mile ice oval—is part tradition, part thrill ride, and all adrenaline.
You’ll hear engines fire up from blocks away as riders hit the ice at top speed. Thousands of fans line the track, cheering on their favorite teams in what’s often called the “NASCAR of Snowmobiles.” Whether you’re watching from the stands or walking through the pits, the energy is unbeatable.
The 2026 I-500 promises another full weekend of events, including family fun, fireworks, and local food vendors. If you’re planning a February ride, this is the weekend to circle on the calendar.
Warm Stops, Local Flavor
After a day on the trails, Sault Ste. Marie knows how to help you warm up. Head to The Antlers for a plate of comfort food and some great local character—it’s a longtime snowmobiler’s hangout with stories on the walls and hearty meals on the table.
Prefer to unwind and stay in? The city’s hotels, cabins, and lodges offer plenty of space to thaw out, dry off, and plan your next day’s ride. Many spots cater specifically to snowmobilers with easy access to trails and ample trailer parking.
If you’re looking for a break from riding, consider a visit to the Soo Locks, a quick trip to Tahquamenon Falls, or a quiet winter walk along the riverfront. The Sault has plenty to offer even off the sled.
Easy to Rent, Easy to Ride
If you’re new to snowmobiling or traveling light, Sault Ste. Marie makes it easy to jump in. Local outfitters offer everything from rentals and gear to maps and advice—so you don’t have to be an expert to get started.
Need a helmet? A trail pass? A recommendation for an easier route? You’ll find help right in town, and most businesses are more than happy to point you in the right direction.
For longer visits, there are lodging options for every kind of trip—from family motels to rustic cabins tucked into the trees. Snowmobiling is a big part of winter life here, and the city is set up to welcome riders of all kinds.
Why Ride the Soo?
What makes Sault Ste. Marie a true snowmobile town? Reliable snow, well-kept trails, and a local culture that embraces winter. This isn’t just a place where people ride—it’s a place where snowmobiling is part of the season.
From the moment you unload your sled to the last turn on a long ride, you’ll feel the rhythm of winter here. The trails stretch wide. The snow stays deep. And the welcome is always warm.
Start Planning Your Ride
Whether you’re heading up for the 2026 I-500, a long weekend of trail riding, or your first run on a rented sled, Sault Ste. Marie is ready for you.
This is winter, the way it’s meant to be—fresh snow, open trails, and a town that rides right along with you. •