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Once the dust settles from the holiday frenzy, many want nothing more than to relax, unwind and make the most of the remaining winter months. Luckily, we found a place where you can do just that. Come explore your bliss with the best that Michigan has to offer. The endless winter terrain of Northern Michigan boasts fewer crowds and numerous activities for you and the whole family. The snow is aplenty, the slopes are freshly powdered and the seasonal activities are in abundance.
From classic ski and sport to the trending fat tire biking, Michigan has a little bit of everything to offer the wintertime fun seeker. We’ve compiled a list of some popular and maybe surprising options for your season.
Take to the Slopes at the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort
We’re starting with the tried-and-true, ever-popular winter sport of skiing. Because what is a winter without hitting the slopes a few times? The Crystal Mountain Resort has a variety of activities to meet the needs of the entire family. New to skiing? Find skiing and snowboarding lessons suited for all ages and levels. Take advantage of the Family Fun Lesson where you can book your own private tour of the mountain while polishing your skills.
While the kids are off at their ski lessons, indulge in some self-care at Crystal Spa. Book a rejuvenating facial or their signature hot stone massage. Once you’ve exhausted the slopes and pampered your way to bliss, book a family-fun activity like a horse-drawn surrey ride with complimentary hot chocolate.
Luge, Tube and Sled Your Way Down the Slopes
This winter, visit Traverse City’s Timberlee Hills tubing and sledding park. With its title of being the “largest snow tubing hill in the state,” you’re certain to have a memorable tubing time. It’s a great way for kids and adults to take to the slopes – no lesson needed.
Tubing not your style? You can also go with the traditional sledding at the Petoskey Winter Sports Park, which has a sledding hill, an ice rink and hockey rink for the whole family to enjoy.
For more deets about luge, tube and sledding, go here.
Try This New and Trending Wintertime Sport: Fat Tire Biking
Don’t let frozen-over mountain trails keep you from enjoying this warm-weather favorite – in Michigan biking takes to the snow. This quickly growing sport is trending in areas like Marquette and the Upper Peninsula with a plethora of open trails. Places like Marquette take great pride in their snow-grooming techniques, making for a safe, smooth, and less bumpy ride. Locals claim the trails are some of the best in the state.
So, what is stopping you? Book your first snow bike ride at MQT Bike Rentals and take to the trail! When you’re wiped out from all the riding, be sure to check out Marquette’s thriving beer scene and local dining.
Did Someone Say Dog-Sledding?
Looking for a unique winter experience? Make your way to the Upper Peninsula where this time-old tradition is alive and well. At Nature’s Kennel Dog Sled Adventures, you can find a variety of options for your personal winter sleigh ride. Choose to lead your own team or ride with a guide. Choose from 10-mile or 20-mile trails. Stay for a day or take advantage of the full experience and choose an overnight package with the Dog Sled Resort Overnight Stay.
If you want the all-inclusive experience (along with some professional-looking photos for your social, check out the Aurora Photography and Sledding Adventure which includes a four-night adventure with Upper Peninsula photographer Shawn Malone, snowshoeing, dog-sledding and a personalized photography lesson to help you capture the entire adventure. The trip even supplies you with a packing list so you’ll be ready and prepared to take on the northern terrain.
Snowmobiling in the UP
Now that you’re considering dog-sledding in the Upper Peninsula, we figured we’d throw in another activity that you can squeeze in during your trip to the northern parts of the state. Munising is known as the “snowmobiling capital of the Midwest.” With 3000 miles of finely groomed trails, there is hardly a better place to plan your next snowmobiling adventure.
Visit the frozen lakes, streams, rivers and waterfalls without lifting a foot. This leisurely activity can be enjoyed by the whole family and is the perfect way to explore the jaw-dropping beauty of winter in Northern Michigan. Book your snowmobile rental at Munising Snowmobile Rental and be sure to check ahead for weather conditions.
In essence, there are endless possibilities to capitalize on your winter experiences in the great state of Michigan. So when you’re deciding on the locale of your next family vacation or thinking about that new winter sport you’d like to take up, find everything under the snow on your next trip to Michigan by visiting https://www.michigan.org/.
