Tryg Solberg/For the Mining Gazette skiers along the Swedetown Trails in Calumet
The Keweenaw Peninsula is in the midst of an unseasonably warm season that has impacted many snow-based activities and businesses.
Although more snow has already fallen in the area than the record low of 81.3 inches in 1930-31, warm temperatures have quickly reduced snowpack in the woods and on trails.
Michigan's economy is typically a big beneficiary of abundant snowfall and in 2022, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation estimated that snow activity contributed over $130 million to the state's GDP.
Conversations with local businesses have highlighted the extent of this winter's impact.
The Boondock Inn near Twin Lakes is experiencing some vacancy and cancellation issues. Their cabins have been almost empty this winter, except for a small influx of visitors after the big snowfall in mid-January. Although they have bookings well into March, they expect more cancellations unless the weather changes. The inn's owner mentioned the hope that their side-by-side season would at least start earlier than a typical year.
In addition to the obvious direct impact on local businesses, he also mentioned the impact winter will have on snowmobile and equipment manufacturers. With a huge decline in one of the snowmobiling world's more important regions, brands may need to delay product releases and advancements over the next few years. This year's lull is in particular contrast to recent years with excellent snowfall and the post-pandemic tourism boom.
Cross Country Sports in Calumet saw a noticeable decline in sales across all winter product categories. They're grateful for the limited snow and conditions that local ski slopes have created, especially since much of the Midwest is completely snow-free. Even with the trails open, it's been a slow year introducing people to the sport and new equipment. Fresh snowfall is often a reminder to get outside on skis, snowshoes, or fat-tire bikes, and without that, people might think of spring.
Cross Country Sports mentioned that despite the difficult skiing conditions, fat biking on groomed trails is an excellent activity choice where a little bare ground doesn't matter. The anticipation of the Great Bear Chase ski race in March at Swedetown in Calumet has them hoping for a return of winter.
Trailside Lodge in Calumet mentioned that their accommodation was almost empty even on the weekend. The expectation that it won't snow during spring break has led to cancellations over a month in advance. The last two winters had solid conditions until the snowmobile season ended in late March, so this year there was a stark contrast.
A representative from Atomic Nordic offered a free demo in conjunction with Cross Country Sports in Swedetown on Sunday. The entire North American cross-country ski market has been affected by this year's mild winter, particularly the touring ski category. Sales of beginner skis at Atomic have declined this year because many people in this category don't have easy access to snow. More advanced ski racers often take the time on the weekend to go somewhere where there is snow or snow slopes.
Despite the difficulties in the North American market, Europe is experiencing a strong winter, which has helped to stabilize sales. Not surprisingly, a large number of Nordic skis are typically purchased each year in Scandinavian countries.
M&M Powersports in Hancock lost all of its rental and sales business except for the brief window in January following the snowstorm. They hope that winter returns and provides some respite so that all businesses can experience a partial return to normality.
Your wish could come true as the Houghton National Weather Service weather forecast calls for snow this weekend.
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