Use prudence here as well. More than 30 species of mammals find home within the valley, including whitetail deer, beavers and snowshoe hares, which turn white in winter. Golden-eye ducks paddle the river, and ravens, chickadees and pileated woodpeckers flash through the winter forest. Bald eagles often soar the pale winter sky. Look for water and toilets at the Pinney Bridge Campground, and camp overnight if you'd like.
Experienced canoeists can combine snowshoeing with a canoe trip through the valley.
Turn west and look for parking. Depending on weather, trail access also is available on Pinney Bridge Road, a seasonal road used by snowmobilers. Lake Charlevoix's only Lake-front motel. 311 N. Lake Street, East Jordan, MI 49727.