Michigan state parks news - January 2024

The effort to make outdoor recreation in Michigan more accessible 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 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.

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.

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

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 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.

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 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.