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"*Michigan state parks news - December 2023*"

Ski the Porkies (or board, cross-country ski, snowshoe and Sno-Go)

Porkies logo with snowy ski runs in background [ [link removed] ]

Embrace the thrill of winter at the Porkies Winter Sports Complex [ [link removed] ], nestled within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The opening date is snow-dependent and targeted for Dec. 29.

From adrenaline-pumping ski runs, a natural terrain park and gladed-tree runs (more than just about anywhere) to groomed cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, you'll enjoy stellar panoramic views of Lake Superior and all-natural snow conditions.?Coming soon: Watch for info on Sno-Go bikes, available to rent in early 2024.

"Keep an eye on Michigan.gov/SkiThePorkies [ [link removed] ] or the Porkies Winter Sports Complex Facebook page [ [link removed] ] for opening details".



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Nearly $2 million in Recreation Passport Grants?allocated to improvement projects in community parks

kids playing on playground [ [link removed] ]

This week, we announced that 1 [ [link removed] ]5 communities will share nearly $2 million in Recreation Passport grants [ [link removed] ] for projects across 13 counties, including local projects such as a skate park, playground equipment, a new campground and a boat launch.

Funding for this program is derived from sales of Michigan?s Recreation Passport, which gives year-round vehicle access to state parks and recreation areas, state-managed boating access sites, 140-plus state forest campgrounds, and parking at thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces.



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Cross-country ski and snowshoe getaways at the RAM Center

two cross-country skiers under trees [ [link removed] ]

Enjoy a self-guided?cross-country ski and snowshoe getaway weekend at the Ralph?A. MacMullan Conference Center [ [link removed] ]?in Roscommon.

Perfect for couples, friends or families, the all-inclusive weekend includes cabin-style lodging, five meals, snowshoe rentals and easy access to outdoor adventure. Explore miles of evergreen-lined trails on-site or visit Hartwick Pines State Park's old-growth forest.?Registration is now open for Jan. 19-21, Feb. 2-4 and Feb. 9-11 weekends [ [link removed] ].?



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Camper and boater online survey winners announced

survey icon with lake colors in background

Each year, we send online surveys to campers and boaters to help us learn which amenities and services you value most and how we can best meet our customer needs.

To thank those participants, we drew several respondents for $250 state park and harbor gift cards.?"This year?s survey winners are?Daniel Z. from Port Huron,?Dave T. from Punta Gorda (Florida), Penny P. from Mt. Clemens,?Anne Marie G. from Clarkston, Dane F. from Birmingham and?Brian L. from Cheboygan."

We also use the information to focus training efforts, prioritize investments and recognize staff for the good work they do. Thanks to everyone who participated!



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Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K registration underway

Happy Little Trees 5k with Bob Ross drawing [ [link removed] ]

Run, walk or roll! You have between April 22 (Earth Day) and April 26 (Arbor Day) to complete your Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K?? that's 3.1 miles! You can complete it on foot, or by bike, skate or paddle or using a mobility device.

Sign up today [ [link removed] ]! Registration is $36 and includes your keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, finisher?s medal, commemorative bib number and shipping.?

All race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Michigan state parks.?Learn more about the Happy Little Trees program [ [link removed] ].



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Miles of winter adventures await ? are you ready?

snowmobile riders on snowy trail [ [link removed] ]

It's time to pull your sled out of storage, prep it for winter and purchase your 2023-24 snowmobile trail permit [ [link removed] ]!?

Get ready to suit up and sled Michigan's thousands of miles of state-designated trails, which opened Dec. 1 and will remain open through March 31. Grooming occurs when there is enough snow on the ground.?The snowmobile program is 100% funded with your trail permit dollars.?



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Gift giving idea for state park fans
Collage of products; Free shipping until Dec. 15 using code ILOVEMIPARKS [ [link removed] ]

Give the gift of official state parks merchandise! Our merchandise partner,?Traverse City-based?Great Lakes Proud [ [link removed] ], creates and curates lifestyle merchandise and sustainably sourced apparel for Michigan state parks, trails and boating. Use this code for free shipping until Dec. 15: ILOVEMIPARKS.

"And, if you're looking for more ideas, the DNR recently sent out the DNR's 2023 holiday gift guide [ [link removed] ] packed full of other fun outdoor gift-giving ideas. Take a look!"








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*Michigan.gov/StateParks [ [link removed] ]*

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