And just like that it’s February. Ole Phil’s been here and seen his shadow leaving our skiers happy and beach lovers not so much. In the end, though, Mother Nature will do whatever she darn well pleases just like she always does.
If you’ve got the mid-winter blues it’s probably because you haven’t been getting out and taking advantage of the snow. If all you do is shovel the white stuff, you most likely don’t have a great fondness for it. But if you embrace the season, I guarantee winter will go by more quickly.
Our incredible ski areas are wide open and anxious for you to come and get some runs in soon. Even when the weather doesn’t totally cooperate, the advanced snowmaking equipment and terrific snowmaking crews ensure the base is where it needs to be so going downhill is both safe and fun. If downhill isn’t your thing, Boyne Mountain, Nub’s Nob, and The Highlands all have groomed trails for you to glide on.
Snowmobiling can be a bit hit-and-miss, but things are currently back on track with trails open and being groomed. There are a couple of properties that make it easy for you to sled right from your lodging to the trail and Sunday morning means a pancake breakfast at the Petoskey Snowmobile Club.
If you are happier being away from people, the many trails of the Little Traverse Conservancy offer places of escape. Often you can check out these trails and see only another person or two. Hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski at some of the preserves, cross-country ski while taking in the beauty of northern Michigan.
Feeling more social? Pull on a pair of ice skates or grab a sled and visit Avalanche Preserve in Boyne City, the Winter Sports Park in Petoskey, or indoors at Petoskey Ice Arena during their open skate. Harbor Springs’ Kiwanis Park is another good place to fly down the hill on a saucer or sled while listening to laughter all around you. Maybe take in one of the events happening in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, or Boyne City.
Sometimes a simple change of scenery will get you over the hump and make you feel better. What better place than the Petoskey Area to watch the snow fall while you curl up with a good book, sip a glass of wine, or enjoy a steaming mug of hot chocolate?
Winter’s here – wrap your arms around it with someone you love (after all, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner) and enjoy the beauty the season offers. If that doesn’t work for you, just start planning your spring or summer getaway to the Petoskey Area now.
About the author
Diane Dakins is passionate about all of the communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor, and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has “been there – seen that” when it comes to virtually every area attraction. She strives to create informative content that gives potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.