Michigan state parks news - December 2023

Embrace the thrill of winter at the Porkies Winter Sports Complex, 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 or the Porkies Winter Sports Complex Facebook page for opening details.

This week, we announced that 15 communities will share nearly $2 million in Recreation Passport grants 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.

Enjoy a self-guided?cross-country ski and snowshoe getaway weekend at the Ralph?A. MacMullan Conference Center?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.?

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!

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! 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.

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

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.?