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Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Turned Snowmobiler’s Dream BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Grand Marais was named by French voyagers in the 1600s and translates roughly to “Great Pond, Used as a Harbor of Refuge” and was justly named, as it was the only lifeline a sailor had along the dangerous shipwreck coast of Lake Superior. Located in Alger County, on the south shore at the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, it is still the only Harbor of
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DECEMBER • 2021 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV
Refuge between Marquette and Sault St. Marie. Albeit small, with a population of just 300, Grand Marais’ offerings are massive for anyone who enjoys outdoor sports and unspoiled nature. Beyond the endless snowmobiling opportunities, Grand Marais also offers cozy and luxury lodging, eclectic dining, and the very best of winter.
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ituated on several of the most pristine DNR Snowmobile trails in the state, many refer to Grand Marais as the true mecca of snowmobiling in Michigan. With an average of 232 inches of snow per year and nestled within 300 miles of marked and meticulously groomed trails, it - in fact - offers some of the best snowmobiling not only in Michigan, but in the world.
