Northern Michigan Ice Storm Fallout Spurs Massive Cleanup, Delayed Park Openings

Northern Michigan faces significant disruptions after an ice storm, prompting a 12-county disaster declaration. The DNR prioritizes safety, delaying park access and launching phased reopening efforts, while warning of hazards in waterways. Volunteer initiatives are paused for safety.

Ice storm damage across northern Michigan delays park and trail access as DNR prioritizes safety and recovery efforts.

Governor Declares Disaster as Ice Storm Ravages Northern Michigan

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a 12-county disaster area following a devastating northern Michigan ice storm that tore through northern Michigan earlier this month. The affected counties—Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle—face widespread disruption across public lands and recreational facilities.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates that roughly 919,550 acres of state-managed land have been impacted, including damage to 3,260 miles of forest roads, 12 state parks, 32 state forest campgrounds, 122 boating access sites, and over 4,000 miles of trails. Cleanup and damage assessments are underway, with public safety as the top priority.

DNR Focuses on Safety and Phased Reopening of Parks and Trails

In response to the extensive damage, the Michigan DNR is executing a phased approach to reopening affected areas. Most campgrounds are expected to open on schedule for spring 2025, but Clear Lake, Otsego, and Petoskey state parks will remain closed until May 15 to allow additional cleanup.

Motorized and non-motorized trail access remains limited as many state-managed routes are currently unsafe due to downed trees and impassable conditions. Spring turkey hunters using units J, A, and F have been advised of possible access limitations.

Open map and dashboard

Boaters and Anglers Warned of Hidden Hazards in Waterways

The DNR has issued a special alert to anglers, paddlers, and boaters navigating rivers and streams in the 12-county disaster area. New obstructions, including submerged branches and fallen trees, pose serious risks.

While Michigan law permits portaging around river obstacles even on private property, the DNR emphasized caution and encouraged users to stay near the riverbank and re-enter quickly. In cases where wood removal is necessary, only hand tools should be used, and permits may be required from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) if the riverbed will be disturbed.

Volunteer Efforts Temporarily Paused Due to Safety Concerns

Although volunteer support has been vital in past disaster recoveries, the DNR has paused all volunteer cleanup programs—including Adopt-A-Forest—until safety protocols and an official volunteer plan are in place.

The DNR encourages those interested in helping to fill out the Ice Storm Recovery Volunteer Interest Form. Updates will be sent when cleanup efforts are ready for public involvement.

Access to Michigan State Forest Lands Severely Restricted

The storm has rendered most state forest roads inaccessible, further limiting access to vast areas of public land. Many seasonal county roads are also impassable. DNR officials are urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel into damaged areas.

Officials also caution hunters and hikers to remain alert for “widow-makers”—unstable trees and branches that may still fall. Footing is treacherous, and muddy roads are causing vehicles to get stuck or create damage. Safety, officials say, must remain the top concern.

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