Benzie County in Northern Michigan Offers Active Winter Fun with Excellent Accommodations
(Vocus) January 5, 2010 -- Beautiful Benzie County, Michigan, has been on the receiving side of perfect winter weather this season. Cold temperatures and an abundance of snow in Northern Michigan have helped to launch another spectacular winter in a location where snow sports are top notch. Benzie County (www.visitbenzie.com) is the perfect escape for a week or weekend for those who like winter sports and outdoor adventure. New this season are snow mobile rentals to experience 135 miles of groomed natural trails, and dog sled excursions that the entire family can enjoy. These activities along with excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa (www.greatfoodandtravel.com/sponsor_details.cfm?id=319), snowshoeing along the dunes on Lake Michigan’s shore, and miles of groomed cross country skiing trails give those who seek winter adventure a chance to see Michigan’s beautiful scenery along with their outdoor fun.
According to Mary Carroll, President of Benzie County Visitor’s Bureau, “The temperatures and the significant amount of natural snowfall so far this season has contributed to the high quality of snow for such sports as downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling.” Restaurants and lodging (www.greatfoodandtravel.com) are also readily abundant in Benzie County including inns and b&b's and and restaurants where local foods are a specialty.
Downhill & Cross Country Skiing
One of Parents Magazine’s Ten Best Snow Resorts for Families (2009) and rated #1 Resort in the Midwest by Ski Magazine, Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa’s (www.crystalmountain.com) conditions for downhill skiing and snowboarding are prime. The resort features 45 downhill slopes and two terrain parks. Led by Ron Shepard, a former Professional Ski Instructors of America examiner from Park City, Utah, Crystal Mountain's snowsports school features programs for skiers and snowboarders of every age. Visitors can also experience cross-country skiing along 40 kilometers of groomed trails. including those through Michigan Legacy Art Park, a 30-acre preserve featuring over 40 outdoor sculptures. The resort is a premier destination for healthy living with a first class fitness center, an extensive list of fitness classes, Peak Performance menu in its restaurants, and Crystal Spa, the Midwest’s only LEED-certified spa awarded Favorite Hotel/Resort Spa: Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, & Midwest by Spa Magazine and Top Ten: Winter Sports Spa by SpaFinder.
Dog Sledding
Crystal Mountain Resort has partnered with Wiggins’ Mountainside Huskies this season to offer a family experience you won’t soon forget – dog sledding. Sleds are pulled by four to six Siberian Huskies along Crystal Mountain’s wooded trails. For more information about dog sledding excursions, contact Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa at (800) 968-7686 ext. 7000.
Snowmobiling
Benzie County’s 135 miles of groomed and challenging snowmobile trails are spread throughout the county in three locations: East of the village of Honor, in Thompsonville, and in Beulah. There are maps at the Benzie County Visitors Bureau located on US31 in the village of Benzonia showing the trails as well as staging areas for loading in the snowmobiles . Snowmobile rentals are available by contacting Crystal Adventures at 231-651-9648.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport and one in which anyone can take part. Snowshoeing doesn’t require a lot of advanced training and is a great group activity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the most majestic locations for snow shoeing in Benzie County are the Elberta Dunes and Arcadia Dunes along the Lake Michigan Shore and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park (http://sleepingbeardunes.com/blog/?p=133). More information about snow shoeing at www.visitbenzie.com.
Ice Fishing
Benzie County has 57 inland lakes, which are perfect for ice fishermen and women. To make arrangements for a fishing shanty and more information about ice fishing locations, contact Benzie County Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801.
Benzie County, 30 minutes Southwest of Traverse City and approximately five hours from Chicago and Detroit has miles and miles of beaches and dunes – including over 24 miles along Lake Michigan, quaint towns and villages, and is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is one of the most desirable destinations in the state of Michigan for year round vacationing or second home purchases. Whether you’re a nature seeker or more adventurous type, Benzie Country (www.visitbenzie.com) offers something for everyone. Travel its winding roads from village to village, and discover natural beauty, a relaxing style, and outdoor adventure.
###
Ice Fishing Articles:
Tags:
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Free Quick Tip
Ice Fishing Tip - Tip Up Line Selection
When ice fishing... line does matter. Choose the correct pound line for ice fishing. Unless you are fishing for Musky or Northern, a lighter pound test line works well in cold water. The heavier the test, the more of a chore to handle.
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Free Quick Tip
Learn a new fishing knot each day with this great widget. Daily fishing knots for all fishing enthusiast.
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Free Tips
When it comes to ice fishing a few tips can make your outing that much better. First and foremost know the lake or river that you will be fishing on. I cant tell you how many people fall through spring fed lakes simply because they didn’t realize some spots don’t freeze over. Second you must have the right gear for ice fishing. I won’t tell you how to dress but do dress warm (you’re on ice) When it comes to the equipment you bring with I recommend the following: A typical children’s type sled to pull your gear onto the lake. A 5-gallon bucket to hold your gear (also makes a nice seat). Dont forget your fishing tip ups or a jig pole. Ice auger for drilling through the ice. Also a ladle to scoop out the ice from the hole. Hand warmers are al ...
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Free Quick Tip
Ice Fishing Safety Tip - Remember a few rules when venturing out on the ice:
1. Always make sure the ice is strong enough to support you.
2. Try to take along a friend.
3. Let someone know you are going out ice fishing.
4. If you hear the ice starting to crack, stand still. Do Not attempt to run!!
5. Clear ice is actually stronger than cloudier ice.
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Free Quick Tip
Ice Fishing Tip Up - Jig Fishing Quick Tip.
Jigs are designed to be fished on or near the bottom. Try to judge water depth and currents when selecting the weight of your jig lure. Use common sense when you choose your jig. If you dont feel the jig hitting the bottom of the lake or river, try using a heavier jig.