Roscommon
A peaceful forest village bordered by crystal-clear Higgins Lake and the sprawling expanses of the Mason Tract.
Higgins Lake is renowned worldwide for its striking Caribbean-blue waters, which freeze into mesmerizing clear-blue ice sheets in winter.
Mason Tract Skiing & Diner Pies
Spend the morning cross-country skiing the majestic pine corridors of the Mason Tract along the Au Sable River, warm up with hearty breakfast and homemade pie at Fred's Restaurant, and explore Higgins Lake.
Crystal Ice Fishing & Riverside Pubs
Set up an ice fishing shanty on the crystal-clear blue ice of Higgins Lake, enjoy afternoon drinks at Au Sable Riverview Pub, and relax in the village.
Morning cross-country ski on the Mason Tract, lunch at Fred's Restaurant, afternoon ice fishing on Higgins Lake, and dinner at Au Sable Riverview Pub.
Stay in a heated state park mini-cabin at North Higgins Lake, spend Saturday skiing and ice fishing, and enjoy a peaceful Sunday morning by the lake.
- 01
Fred's Restaurant
A beloved downtown institution serving hearty breakfasts, homemade pies, and classic comfort food in a warm, friendly room.
105 S 5th St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5531 · Website ↗
- 02
Au Sable Riverview Resort & Pub
Scenic views overlooking the South Branch of the Au Sable River, serving burgers, steaks, and cold drinks.
100 Robinson St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5267 · Website ↗
- 03
The Sawmill Restaurant
Hearty steaks, sandwiches, and friendly service right in the heart of Roscommon.
203 N 5th St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5151 · Website ↗
Classic Up-North Homestyle Breakfast & Fresh Pie
Smoked bacon, farm eggs cooked to order, hash browns, and thick-sliced toast, followed by a slice of homemade cherry or apple pie.
Three things most people walk past.
- Towering, centuries-old white pine trees arching over snow-covered cross-country ski tracks.
- Stunning crystal-clear blue ice sheets freezing across the shallows of Higgins Lake.
- The snow-draped wooden banks of the South Branch of the Au Sable River.
- 01
Au Sable Riverview Pub
Cozy riverside drinks and conversation by the water.
100 Robinson St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5267 · Website ↗
- 02
Down River Lounge
Friendly neighborhood spot for draft beer and local winter stories.
401 Lake St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-4300 · Website ↗
- 01
Fred's Bakery Counter
Hot morning coffee and fresh-baked cinnamon rolls.
105 S 5th St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5531 · Website ↗
- 01
Cross-Country Skiing the Mason Tract
A legendary 9.5-mile wilderness trail winding through towering white pines along the sacred South Branch of the Au Sable River.
Mason Tract Trailhead off Chase Bridge Rd, Roscommon, MI 48653 · Website ↗
- 02
Ice Fishing Higgins Lake
Higgins Lake freezes into crystal-clear blue ice, offering premier winter ice fishing for perch, trout, and whitefish.
North Higgins Lake State Park, Roscommon, MI 48653 · Website ↗
- 03
Higgins Lake Hardware & Sport
Ice fishing gear, augers, and winter outdoor equipment
Local customDrilling an ice fishing hole on Higgins Lake and marveling down through two feet of crystal-clear blue ice.
- Skiing the silent pine corridors of the Mason Tract along the frozen South Branch of the Au Sable.
- The Mason Tract is hallowed ground for fly-fishermen and cross-country skiers seeking absolute wilderness solitude.
- Fred's Restaurant is the undisputed morning gathering place where local guides and loggers plan their winter days.
February 6, 2027
Roscommon Higgins Lake Winterfest
Classic winter celebration featuring ice fishing contests, cross-country ski races, and winter bonfires on the shores of Higgins Lake.
- 01
Higgins Lake Motel
Comfortable, clean lodging within easy reach of Higgins Lake and local village amenities.
102 S 5th St, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 275-5361 · Website ↗
- 02
North Higgins Lake State Park Cabins
Cozy heated state park cabins nestled right among the pines near the shores of Higgins Lake.
11747 N Higgins Lake Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653 · (989) 821-6125 · Website ↗
Bring a little Roscommon homeFirst Shovel coffeeBrewed before the driveway, finished after it.Have a look ↗