If you are looking for a unique ski experience this winter, check out cat skiing in the Porcupine Mountains of the Upper Peninsula. Amidst the old-growth forests of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the snowcat operation started in 2006-2007 and is a first for the midwest.
The operation consists of two snowcats: one 18 passenger cat named “Curly” and a 12 passenger cat named “Moe.” The snowcats have opened access to backcountry areas lacking lift access that offer long open runs, including glades. One hundred and fifty acres of terrain are available for skiing with over 25 different runs.
According to Lindsey Glieberman of Mount Bohemia, “On a powder day, [skiers can] expect nice dry snow and fresh tracks all day long. Even on non-powder days you can usually find fresh tracks in the woods.” A day of powder skiing is a dream come true for most snowboarders and skiers, something the Porkies can offer because of the vastness of the area. The terrain is challenging, mostly advanced to expert level, with some intermediate terrain on the open runs.
There is a feeling of camaraderie associated with exploring a forest of powder and trees with a dozen other people. The ride up takes about nine minutes and skiers can get in about eight runs a day.
Glieberman states that the support of the Department of Natural Resources was helpful in the early stages of the business. A crew and a logger cleaned out the runs in the woods to get the glades in shape for skiers and snowboarders. The area still has room to grow and Glieberman hopes to add more glade runs in the future.

For more info: www.skitheporkies.com

-Darren McChristie