HOUGHTON, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Keweenaw Snowmobile Club has officially opened the Portage Lake Lift Bridge crossing for snowmobile traffic for the 2025 – 2026 riding season.
The crossing utilizes the lower deck of the world’s largest and heaviest double-decker lift bridge, reconnecting snowmobile routes between Houghton and Hancock and restoring a critical link in the Keweenaw’s trail network.
During winter months, the bridge remains in its lowered position, allowing automobiles to travel across the upper deck while snowmobiles cross below. For many riders and locals, the opening of the bridge is considered the true start of winter in the Keweenaw.
“We’re incredibly thrilled the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club, in partnership with the City of Houghton, was able to open the bridge this week,” said Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Brad Barnett. “Snowmobiling is a vital part of the Keweenaw’s winter economy, and opening the crossing in time for the holiday season will bring some early Christmas joy to riders this year.”
With the crossing now open, snowmobilers can once again ride continuous routes from Copper Harbor to Mass City and Greenland. The Keweenaw Peninsula offers more than 230 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, with communities like Calumet and Copper Harbor welcoming riders with direct sled access to shops, restaurants, and lodging. The City of Houghton helps to pack snow across the route in conjunction with the club.
Trail conditions and updates will be shared throughout the season at visitkeweenaw.com.
