It’s easy to break the ice in Muskegon, Michigan without breaking the bank.  Winter is one of the best times to get outdoors and meet people in this warm and friendly city. From learning how to luge to ice skating, to sledding in Lake Harbor Park, you’ll find something for every member of the family to enjoy.  Check out these affordable winter activities in Muskegon this season:

Learn to Luge

For less than $50, you can learn how to luge during a 2 and a half hour session at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. You’ll learn the basics of the sport as well as how to use the equipment to keep you safe on the track. A sure-fire way to keep the kids busy on a cold winter afternoon and a great birthday party venue to let the kids blow off steam. The lessons are held every weekend and include enough free time to slide down the track and compete for a coveted medal at the end of the session.

Ice Skating

A 2-acre ice rink is open from 10 am to 9:45 weather permitting. You’ll find a family skating rink along with a hockey rink complete with skate, stick and helmet rental. There’s also a quarter mile skating trail for those of you looking for a real workout.

Girl Ice Skating Outdoors

Snowshoeing

If speed isn’t your thing, consider putting on some snowshoes to enjoy a long hike outdoors. There are plenty of trails in the area including the Lake Michigan Loop and Lost Lake Trails that are a bit more challenging. The Woods Loop is a great option for beginners who want to take a leisurely hike and enjoy views of Muskegon State Park. Make sure to check conditions before you head out and consider renting some warm outerwear and equipment from one of the many area outfitters. A small fee for a trail pass is required as well.

small child with snowshoes

Cross Country Skiing

Strap on your skis and enjoy the five-mile groomed cross-country skiing trail located in Muskegon State Park. The trail is well lit, making it easy to access in time to watch the sunrise or sunset.   Equipment is available to rent, and trail passes are available to purchase.

Sledding

The sledding hills at Muskegon Winter Sports Complex are the place to go for an afternoon of giggles and tons of fun. The hills are open to the public and free to enjoy. While the kids enjoy sledding down the hill, the adults may get a bigger kick out of watching the more experienced thrill seekers take their turns. Don’t have a sled? You can always rent.  A word of warning: no metal sleds, snowboards or skis allowed on the hills.

There’s no shortage of ways to chill out in Muskegon. You can also venture over to Lake Michigan to get a glimpse of the frozen waves. You can also venture to any of the many rivers and parks nearby or the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park just a few miles away in Grand Rapids. Take some photos of the many sculptures and native flowers that can survive and thrive in Michigan’s winter temperatures. Whatever you choose, you don’t need a lot of cold cash to enjoy the outdoors this winter in Muskegon, Michigan.

2019 Outdoor Winter Events taking place in Muskegon County: January 18- 20, 25- 27| Learn to Luge Weekend | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex January 16,  23, 30 | Free Ice Skating Lessons for Kids | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex January 16 | Snowshoe Icebreaker Wednesdays | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex January 23 | Ice Skate Icebreaker Wednesdays | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex January 26 | Muskegon Polar Plunge | Fricano’s on Muskegon Lake  January 29 | Watch Muskegon Family Night | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

February 1 | Learn to Luge Weekend | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex February 2 | Greater Muskegon Jaycees Annual Snowfest | Downtown Muskegon February 3 | Winter Try-Athlon | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex  February 6, 13, 20 | Free Ice Skating Lessons for Kids | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex February 13 | Snowshoe Icebreaker Wednesdays | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex February 16 | Parkas and Plates| Muskegon Winter Sports Complex February 16 - February 17 | Free Fishing Weekend | 27 miles of Lake Michigan waterfront, 20 inland lakes and more than 400 miles of rivers...not to mention the streams!  February 20| Ice Skate Icebreaker Wednesdays | Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

Lucy Crawford is a home design and DIY writer, and lover of herbal tea.  With her busy hands, she is always challenging herself with a new DIY project. She enjoys designing spaces where she can relax and enjoy a good book.

 

Thank you to lawnstarter.com for assistance with this blog.