The Leelanau Enterprise’s annual snowfall contest is back and open for entries until Wednesday, Nov. 12.
A contest where Enterprise readers can make their best guesses for snowfall for the winter of 2025-26, this year, entries will be accepted for the snowfall period between Oct. 15 through April 15. The winners and their predictions will be announced in the Enterprise in April.
“This is just a fun contest to predict the ever-changing Michigan winter season. Thank you to our sponsor Crystal Mountain Resort,” said Leelanau Enterprise Publisher David Thornberry. “I am guessing that because of the effects of a weak La Nina in 2025-2026, I think the winter will be warmer and wetter this winter season, even more than last year. I think we will hit 126.4 inches of snow. Your turn now.”
Current warmer than usual weather patterns have made for a slow start to typical fall temperatures expected at this time of year. Despite the start of fall on September 22, dry and seasonally mild weather conditions have graced the region this week and last, with recent readings running well above specific normal values to kick off October, according to the U.S. National Weather Service Gaylord.
The total snowfall accumulation in the region for the 2024-25 period came in at 128.5 inches, a significant increase from the previous year’s unusually low total of 62 inches. Last year’s winter saw significant snowfall accumulations starting in December until March. While it may or may not be an indication of what the winter season to come will look like, those entering the contest have the chance to take all factors into consideration when making their snowfall predictions.
The contest prizes include $200 for first place, $100 for second, and $50 for third. The fourth place winner will receive a signed copy of Ken Scott’s Back Pages of Leelanau County. The person who guesses closest to the total amount of snowfall recorded for the 2025-26 season is the winner. If there is a tie breaker, the winner will be the person who makes a guess closest to the total number of points scored in the 2026 NCAA’s Men’s Basketball Championship game.
Entries must be received by 5 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the Leelanau Enterprise office and must be filled out on the form printed in the Enterprise. Entry forms are available at the Enterprise office or by mail request by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to 7200 E. Duck Lake Rd., Lake Leelanau, MI 49653.
