Reflections on this season’s ski tourning
As the snow melts and spring settles in, it’s natural to look back on the season we just had, and for me, this year’s ski touring was absolutely memorable.
A Winter That Delivered
From the first dumping in November to the blizzard we encountered in March, this season brought consistent coverage and quality snowpack. Unlike years when thin layers or crusted snow make touring tricky, 2025–2026 offered reliable conditions nearly every week.
The lake effect engine played its usual starring role, with repeated cycles keeping backcountry stashes fresh and travelable. For backcountry ski touring, this kind of pattern is ideal: soft snow, on top of a deep base layer, and frequent refreshes meant every outing was enjoyable and relatively consistent.
Memorable Moments on the Trails
What stood out most were the small, quiet experiences that make ski touring special:
Skiing from the Big Lake to the Eben Ice Caves through the Rock River Caynon.
McCormick Tract forest canopies, lakes, and canyons under soft falling snow, or in the big sky sunshine where the world feels slowed down.
Those unexpected stretches of open ridges on the South Trails with panoramic views, where you can see Marquette and Lake Superior glinting in the winter sun.
Dropping in on Canada and skiing the Midwest’s only couloir (shhhhh…)
Challenges and Lessons
No season is perfect. A few challenges this year reminded me to stay adaptable:
Sudden wind on exposed ridges overlooking the Huron Mountains requiring extra caution and the importance of layers.
Temperature swings occasionally created soft, sticky snow that slowed travel, especially when crossing lakes.
Remote areas in the Hiawatha emphasized the importance of preparation: first aid, navigation tools, and always having a plan for contingencies.
These reminders reinforce why a guided experience can make such a difference where knowledge, preparedness, and experience matter when you’re exploring backcountry terrain.
Looking Ahead
Even as the snow recedes, the memories and lessons of this season stick with me. They inform how I plan next season’s tours and how I approach winter guiding as a whole.
One thing is certain: the Upper Peninsula continues to deliver incredible experiences for those willing to explore its forests and shores in the winter. As a guide, being able to share that with others safely, thoughtfully, and with local insight is one of my greatest passions in life.
Thoughts for Fellow Skiers
If you’re reflecting on your season too, here are a few takeaways from my perspective:
Enjoy the quiet moments as they’re what make ski touring special.
Preparation is everything. Even seemingly easy routes can surprise you.
Keep track of your favorite runs and conditions. Local memory becomes invaluable when planning the next adventure.
As the snow melts, the trails will wait until next season but the experiences, lessons, and stories from this winter will stick around much longer.
Interested in experiencing backcountry ski touring in the Marquette area next season? Check out our ski tours page to explore safely and with a local expert.
