Winter offers a variety of fun activities to do outdoors. The key to enjoying your time outside is to make sure you are dressed appropriately for the cold (layers, people!) and that you have the appropriate gear for the chosen activity. Embracing the snow and cold does not hurt either. So pull on your coat and grab a hat, because you won't want to miss these fun winter activities in southeast Michigan.
Fat Tire Winter Biking
Fat tire biking is all the rage. If you are curious and want to try it out before making an investment, you can rent a bike from a number of places (usually located near a trail).
Hiking and Snowshoeing
Hiking can happen anytime of the year—and it is often free. If you are feeling more adventurous, consider snowshoeing. Snowshoes are relatively inexpensive and a great way to have fun in the snow. Some parks also offer other planned winter activities for a modest fee. Places to check out this winter season include:
- Huron-Clinton Metroparks
- Independence Oaks County Park
- Leslie Science and Nature Center in Ann Arbor
- Lower River Rouge Recreation Trail
- Red Oaks Nature Center
Ice Skating
Whatever your ability, lacing up skates and taking to the ice is essential wintertime fun. You can find places to ice skate in Metro Parent’s complete list of indoor and outdoor rinks in southeast Michigan.
Skiing, Snowboarding and Sledding
Alpine Valley in White Lake is a great place to learn the ropes of skiing or snowboarding—snow is guaranteed.
Of course, if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, you can always test your nerve on one of the many sledding hills in southeast Michigan and Metro Detroit.
Don't have a sled? Check out one at the Canton Township Sled Library.
Winter Festivals and Festivities
Michigan ice festivals are a sight to see, and many feature family-friendly activities including sledding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and often live music and fireworks displays. Most stunning of all, however, are the professional ice sculptors displaying (or even performing) their art for all to admire. Here are some winter festivals within easy driving distance of Canton.
- CPL's Winter Snow Spree – December 13, 2022 at the Canton Public Library
- Dexter Ice Fest - January 21, 2023
- Rochester Fire and Ice Festival – January 20-21, 2023
- Plymouth Ice Festival – February 3-5, 2023
- Winter Blast Royal Oak – February 17-19, 2023
Visit the Zoo
You can visit the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak during the winter. In fact, many animals are more active during winter. Check their website for special winter events like Wild Lights.
CPL Resources to Enhance Your Experience
