A bridge crossing over the Baltimore River near the O Kun de Kun Falls north of Bruce Crossing in the winter season. The U.S. Forest Service encourages taking all safety measures possible before recreating in its open locations during the winter. (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service)

The Ottawa National Forest has announced its open recreational sites for the 2024-25 Winter Season with locations included within Copper Country. The local sites are White Deer Lake on the Baraga and Marquette County line, Bergland Ski Trailhead north of Bergland on Bergland Rd., O Kun de Kun Falls of the Baltimore River, North Country Trailhead access off County Rd. 519 in Baraga County and Courtney Lake Day Use Area and Boat Launch east of Mass City.

“Winter is our longest recreation season of the year and important economically,” Operations Staff Officer Spring Rosales said. “The Forest Service appreciates the efforts of partners that plow recreation sites, and we are delighted to do our part for those one-of-a-kind winter experiences.”

Locations will be plowed generally Monday through Friday no earlier than 24 hours after a snow event. The Forest Service implores that visitors to these locations bring an updated map and compass, reconsider driving into unplowed areas, do not visit locations alone without backup plans, dress appropriately for wet and cold weather and to bring extra food and water. 

Public Affairs Officer Shanelle Saunders and the Forest Service would also like to remind visitors that even minor incidents can become life threatening in the winter months.

“Safety is a big deal and no ice is safe ice,” she said.

Restrooms will be unavailable during the winter season.