Intrepid bushwhackers and groomed trail connoisseurs alike can refuel at these Northern Michigan breweries and pubs after exploring hushed forests. Read on as we canvas the North’s quiet woods for après ski eateries.

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Pond Hill Farm

5699 S. Lakeshore Dr., Harbor Springs | 231.526.3276

As a coating of fresh snow is tamped under the swish of Nordic skis and fat tire bikes on Pond Hill Farm’s trail system, the cafe’s kitchen is all hustle as the team cooks pork shoulders and pots of tomato soup to feed the throngs of winter guests. Located on M-119, the scenic serpentine highway connecting Harbor Springs and Cross Village, Pond Hill Farm is a one-stop winter destination for those seeking to eat, drink and frolic in the snow. A 6.5-mile groomed trail loop welcomes hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers to traverse the rolling hills and dense hardwoods.

The farm’s cafe serves seasonally inspired lunch fare built around meat and produce, like fried green tomato sandwiches, lamb scrapple with fried eggs and gravy, or platters of charcuterie and house-pickled vegetables. In the same soaring barn space, guests at Pond Hill Farm will also find an onsite brewery and wine tasting bar with staples like pilsner and riesling or inventive brews, like a beet-infused IPA.

5 More Cozy Northern Michigan Pubs We Love

The Thirsty Sturgeon
11900 Scott Rd., Wolverine 
Cold brews, big burgers, and hearty buffalo meatloaf.

Clam Lake Beer Company
106 S. Mitchell St., Cadillac 
Chorizo nachos and 40 tap handles to wash them down.

Whi-Ski Inn
2670 US-131 South, Boyne Falls 
Bourbon, sidecars, and house-smoked barbecue.

Market 22
497 E. Harbor Hwy., Maple City 
Craft beer and crisp-edged Detroit-style pizza.

Peninsula Grill
14091 Center Rd., Traverse City
Crispy perch and vino locale.

Photo(s) by Dave Weidner