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"*Michigan state parks news - January 2024*"

Track chairs fundraising goal reached

a couple on a paved trail in woods, one person in a track chair

The effort to make outdoor recreation in Michigan more accessible [ [link removed] ] for everyone continues to gain steam, with the DNR reaching its $400,000 funding goal to purchase track chairs for a growing number of state parks and trails.

Track chairs [ [link removed] ] are off-road, electronic chairs that can easily handle trails, snow, sand and even up to 8 inches of water, allowing users to explore areas of the parks that traditional wheelchairs might not reach. They are available for use at no cost.

Over the past five years, 300-plus donors have raised $444,931 to purchase track chairs?at some 15 locations around the state, with 10 additional locations soon to receive chairs.?Support has come from DNR partner organizations, including Kali?s Cure for Paralysis Foundation, Safari Club International, Family Hope Foundation, and Friends of Ludington and Grand Haven state parks and Island Lake Recreation Area. Campers and boaters who contributed an additional $2 when making their reservations also helped the DNR reach its?fundraising goal [ [link removed] ].



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Embrace the elements with 'cold play'

visitors ice skating through the woods on iced trail

The crunch of fresh snow, refreshingly frigid air on your cheeks and warm sun reflecting off the snow are just a few draws of winter recreation.?

With snow starting to fall in much of Michigan, it?s time to plan your cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, winter birding, luging and other winter recreation adventures.?Visit?Michigan.gov/WinterFun [ [link removed] ].

""Photo courtesy of Adam Alexander": One-of-a-kind ice skating trail at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park [ [link removed] ].?"



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Campground and harbor host spots open for 2024

two hosts standing next to campground host sign

For those who love staying overnight in Michigan state parks and harbors, we have what might be the perfect volunteer gig for you.?

The DNR is currently accepting applications for volunteer campground and harbor hosts [ [link removed] ] at many locations across the state.

Volunteer hosts help answer visitor questions, plan activities and help with light maintenance duties. In exchange, campsite and slip fees are waived. The total commitment is about 30 hours per week.



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Fat-tire bike season open at Silver Lake State Park dunes

two fat-tire bikers posing on top of dune

For the second year in a row, fat-tire bicyclists can ride 450 acres of open sand dunes. You'll experience elevation changes of 80-100 feet and access to Lake Michigan, and have a front row set to sunsets over the lake from the top of the dunes during the fat-tire biking season at Silver Lake State Park [ [link removed] ] in Mears, continuing through March 15.?

There is no registration or cost other than a?valid Recreation Passport for vehicles entering the parking lot. A self-pay station is available.



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Snowmobile trail permit

It's a great time to purchase your 2023-34 snowmobile trail permit [ [link removed] ] if you haven't already! State-designated trails are open Dec. 1 through March 31, and grooming occurs when there is enough snow on the ground.




The power of $2

The $2 Difference ? a program?that gives campers and boaters the option to give $2 when making their reservation ? is?helping to roll out new and enhanced amenities. Read? this recent "Showcasing the DNR" story [ [link removed] ] to learn more.




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

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