Staying active outdoors throughout the winter is possible with the numerous opportunities at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.
Families and individuals can enjoy various activities, including sledding, skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, running, and more!
“You may not think of visiting a park in the winter because typically, it’s a time when people aren’t going outside as much because of the colder weather,” said Quinn Tapp, Metroparks’ marketing support specialist. “But there are all these activities that are available, and the Metroparks really aren’t just for the summer.”
Here’s a look at some of the most popular winter activities at the Metroparks, including the best park for each and why they’re worth a shot.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a fun way to enjoy natural outdoor beauty and get an excellent workout that’s easier on joints than other exercises. It can also help reduce stress and improve focus.
Metroparks offers both groomed and ungroomed trails for classic Nordic skiing, and affordable equipment rental. Snow-making at the Huron Meadows Metropark location ensures anyone from beginners to advanced skiers can enjoy this activity all winter long.
Locations:
- Hudson Mills Metropark
- Huron Meadows Metropark
- Indian Springs Metropark
- Kensington Metropark
- Lake Erie Metropark
- Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Oakwoods Metropark
- Stony Creek Metropark
- Willow Metropark
Snowboarding
Snowboarding is another exhilarating way to exercise that allows you to enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery. Many Metroparks’ sledding hills are perfect for beginners learning the sport and want to hone the fundamental skills.
Locations:
- Indian Springs Metropark
- Kensington Metropark
- Lake Erie Metropark
- Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Stony Creek Metropark
Ice Skating
There’s nothing quite like gliding across a frozen ice rink with the backdrop of snow-covered trees during winter. Ice skating is a seasonal activity that many families enjoy as a fun form of fitness. It improves balance, builds muscle, and is the perfect activity for children and families.
Locations:
- Kensington Metropark
- Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Stony Creek Metropark
Ice Fishing
Going ice fishing is like entering a new world, a literal town on the ice, in the winter months at the Metroparks. Fishers set up tents and spend hours on the ice, enjoying each other’s company while catching breeds like pan fish and yellow perch. It’s an excellent way to keep your favorite hobby reeling year-round—or try something new! Check the state’s Eat-Safe Fish Guide before consuming your catch.
Locations:
- Huron Meadows Metropark
- Kensington Metropark
- Lake Erie Metropark
- Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Stony Creek Metropark
Sledding
No winter activity list is complete without a full day of sledding and playing in the snow. Families love the sledding hills at several Metroparks locations to load up the kids and make seasonal memories. You can make a day of it by sledding in the morning and visiting a nature center in the afternoon!
Locations:
- Indian Springs Metropark
- Kensington Metropark
- Lake Erie Metropark
- Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Stony Creek Metropark
- Willow Metropark
Winter Running, Cycling and Nature Walks
Metroparks offer patrons the ability to enjoy more than 400 miles of trails, both paved and unpaved. Runners, walkers, and cyclists can enjoy the rustic, natural beauty of winter and have the opportunity to see wildlife like deer, birds, squirrels, and waterfowl. Plus, the paved trails are salted and cleared, so they’re safe and ensure users don’t have to trudge through the snow. Wear proper gear if you veer off onto one of the unpaved, more rustic trails.
Locations:
Burning off cabin fever, reducing kids’ screen time and enjoying all the proven benefits of getting outdoors is more than possible at the Metroparks.
“You don’t need equipment; you can just get outside and enjoy the views to get those physical and mental benefits,” Tapp said.
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One of America’s premier metropolitan park systems, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks have served the people of Southeast Michigan since 1940. Managed by the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, the Metroparks are made up of 13 properties in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. Available activities include fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, nature study, biking, golf, winter sports and more. The Metroparks also provide educational resources on science, nature, history and the environment. Learn more at Metroparks.com.
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