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November 2013

In Michigan, you never have to hibernate through the winter. Family-friendly events are held every month so you can always get outdoors to enjoy park and recreation areas across the state! Visit the DNR's "Get Outdoors" calendar to view the complete list of events at all Michigan state parks and recreation areas throughout November. New programs are added monthly, so check back often! Click here for a full list of events on our "Get Outdoors" calendar >>

November Events

November 15: Make your own snowshoes—Ludington State Park—6:00pm-10:00pm

November 16: Make your own snowshoes—Ludington State Park—9:00am-2:00pm

November 30: Astronomy Night—Lake Hudson Recreation Area—5:00pm-8:30pm 

Looking Ahead to Winter Fun!

Learn to Make Snowshoes at Sleepy Hallow State Park in December and January
Sleepy Hollow State Park in Clinton County will offer several two-day snowshoe-building classes in December and January. Instructor Clyde Risdon will teach participants how to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes similar to the ones Native Americans made for generations.

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes is $170, and includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, high-quality bindings and personal instruction. Classes are designed to be fun, informative and interesting. Because this is an activity that requires concentration over long periods of time, it is recommended for ages 16 and older. Classes are scheduled for:  

• Friday, Dec. 6, 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
  Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)
   
• Friday, Jan. 10, 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
  Saturday, Jan. 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)
   
• Friday, Jan. 24, 5-9 p.m. (Part 1)
  Saturday, Jan. 25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)

Class size is limited to a maximum of eight participants; reservations are required. To make a reservation, please call Sleepy Hollow State Park at 517-651-6217 or email Denise Smith at smithd8@michigan.gov. A Recreation Passport is required for all vehicles entering the state park.

Save the Date for Shoe Year's Day
Enjoy New Year's Day with special "Shoe Year’s Day" snowshoe and hiking events taking place in state parks and recreation areas across the state on the first day of the year. Save the date to strap on a pair of snowshoes or lace up hiking boots and join other fitness-minded individuals for the "Shoe Year’s Day" treks. Participants will receive healthy lifestyle tips from local experts, enjoy healthy refreshments, and have the opportunity to make an official pledge to get Fresh Air Fit this year!

All "Shoe Year’s Day" events are free, and snowshoes will be available to rent at most locations. Stay tuned for the full list of "Shoe Year’s Day" activities to be announced in early December!

Cabin rentals are available for overnight stays at state park and recreation areas across the state. Now, cabin and camping reservations are made easier than ever with the DNR’s new and improved website and call center campground reservation system (CRS). Read more about the DNR’s new campground reservation system >>

Know before you go!

An $11 Recreation Passport is required for entry to Michigan state parks and recreation areas. Plus, it helps protect Michigan’s natural resources for future generations! Visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport for more information.

Also, registration and fees apply to some of the above programs and events. Please be sure to visit the links above for more information about the registration and fees involved for each program.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.