Michigan is the perfect place for adventure during any season. From sparkling lakeshores to snow-covered evergreens, there is no shortage of natural beauty. Though many of us wait all year to hit the beach and soak up that summer sun, there is something very special about Michigan winters. A snowshoe trek is the perfect way to enjoy the snowy season!
Gear up!
Layering is the key to any winter adventure. Earth’s Edge has all the gear you need to get started and it’s even on sale! Our winter clearance offers 30-50% off on all of the season’s apparel for Women, Men, and Kids! Start with a Smartwool base layer like the Women’s Merino 250 Crew or Men’s Merino 250 Crew (or for men). Then Patagonia Capilene TW Bottoms for Women and Men.
Add a mid-layer like the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket for cold days or the Better Sweater Jacket for warmer days. For your outermost layer, wear a waterproof shell jacket like the Patagonia Torrentshell. As for pants, you can go with your favorite snowpants for very cold, wet weather or the Torrentshell Pants for more mild conditions.
For footwear, youll need a pair of Smartwool Socks, waterproof hiking boots (like the Salomon OUTline Mid GTX), and of course snowshoes! If you don’t own a pair, there are rental options locally through Hemlock Crossing Park in West Olive, Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, and Landsharks in Saugatuck. Don’t forget a warm pair of gloves or mittens and a hat; Sydney even brought a hot chocolate along in her Hydroflask!
Hometown Hikes
There’s plenty of scenic trails in the West Michigan area to explore! It’s a great way to get outside and appreciate Michigan’s natural beauty while only being a few minutes from home!
Hemlock Crossing
Hemlock Crossing in West Olive offers 239 acres of woods and wetlands along the Pigeon River, 6 miles of trails that connect to Pine Bend Park, and an educational nature center. They offer nature programs and classes that include guided educational hikes and ski classes that are great for families and kids! There are equipment rentals offered through the nature center and there is no entry fee.
Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park is one stop for all winter adventure, offering snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating, and a luge track! There are 5 miles of trekking trails including easy, short distances for beginners or kids and more challenging trails. The park has equipment rentals at their lodge where day or season passes can also be purchased.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Saugatuck Dunes State Park, between Holland and Saugatuck, is right on Lake Michigan and includes miles of secluded shoreline and coastal dunes. All together, there are 13 miles of serene hiking trails. Grab your rentals from Landsharks in downtown Saugatuck and hit the trails!
Nothing beats getting outside and connecting with our beautiful surroundings here in West Michigan! So bundle up, grab a hot drink, and explore some snowy trails! Don’t forget to stop by Earth’s Edge and find some winter clearance treasures before they’re gone! We’re open Monday–Saturday from 10–8 and Sunday from 12-5.
