The winter season is one of the most magical & wonderful times of the year in Michigan. No one can deny that snow falling from the sky or it glistening over the trees is a beautiful sight to see. Not only is snow pretty to look at, but it also brings countless winter activities to partake in. If you tend to be a hermit in the winter and like to stay indoors (sometimes we don’t blame you), then this post might not be for you. However, for those looking to get out and explore all that Michigan has to offer in the winter then keep on reading for some of the best winter activities and places to go this season.
Ice Skating
Lace up your skates, grab some gloves and get ready to glide along the countless ice skating rinks and skate parks in Michigan. Ice skating is a great winter activity that gets you outside and your body moving. The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex is a one-stop destination for all your ice skating desires. A popular ice skating attraction at the complex is their ¼ mile skating trail where you will glide through the snow-covered woods. The trail is even lit up at night, which makes it a magical nighttime experience. The complex also features a family skating rink and an ice hockey rink.
Downtown Detroit’s Campus Martius Park also turns into an ice skating winter wonderland in November. It features a beautiful outdoor ice rink and is open both during the day and evening all winter long. Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids also turns into an outdoor ice skating rink during the winter, which is perfect for those who live closer to the West side of Michigan.
Skiing & Snowboarding
The winter season means it’s officially time to hit the slopes! Whether you enjoy downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, or snowboarding, Michigan features a variety of attractions that are perfect for every skill level type. The Leelanau Trail between Traverse City and Suttons Bay is a beautiful 15.5 mile trail that is perfect for cross country skiing. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also offers a variety of trails and terrain to cross country ski or snowshoe through.
If cross country skiing isn’t enough of a rush for you, that’s okay. There are plenty downhill skiing and snowboarding destinations across both the lower and upper peninsula. Boyne Mountain is a popular Michigan ski resort in Boyne Falls that offers 60 downhill runs and since it is a resort you can make a weekend trip out of it and hit the slopes all weekend long. If you live in the Upper Peninsula, Ski Brule in Iron River is a beautiful snow resort that also offers countless downhill runs and lodging as well.
Snowmobiling
Adventure seekers get ready to ride through the woods and across frozen lakes this winter when you snowmobile on one of the many snowmobile trails in Michigan. Snowmobiling is a wonderful activity for both family and friends. The city of Cadillac offers over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and it also connects you to other trails, providing you with endless hours of riding. You can also rent snowmobiles at M&M Rentals of Cadillac, or if you have a snowmobile already, you can find all the parts you need through Parts Pit Stop – a local Michigan company. so if you don’t own a snowmobile don’t let that stop you from getting out and exploring. For more snowmobile trails to ride through this winter click here.
Sledding & Snow Tubing
A popular winter activity for everyone and one that doesn’t require any skill is sledding and snow tubing. All you have to do is grab your sled or tube and find a hill that you can glide down. However, if you really want to experience all that sledding has to offer then consider a few of these snow tubing hills throughout Michigan. Timberlee Hills in Traverse City is Michigan’s largest tubing hill. The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and Boyne Mountain resort also both offer snow tubing as well. Snow tubing really is the perfect activity for all ages, since all you have to do is glide down the hill and then grab on to the handle tow system which brings you back up the hill.
Don’t let the cold weather and snow stop you from getting out and exploring Michigan during the winter season. There really is an experience and activity for everyone of all ages. Now grab your winter gear and get out there – hot cocoa is waiting for you when you get back!
