Top Winter Activities in Southwest Michigan
While some may cringe at the thought of cold temperatures and snow-covered streets, we love to embrace the winter season! Whether bundling up in layers or gearing up for outdoor adventures, Kalamazoo and greater Southwest Michigan have many winter activities to enjoy. From skiing and snowmobiling to tobogganing and snowshoeing, the possibilities are endless.
For those who’d rather stay cozy indoors, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a list of warm and inviting indoor activities to enjoy when the outdoors just isn’t calling your name. So, grab a hot cocoa and discover the best winter experiences Kalamazoo offers.
Outdoor Winter Activities
Skiing & Snowboarding
Kalamazoo and the surrounding area offer several ski resorts perfect for hitting the slopes this winter. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, there are plenty of options to enjoy the snow.
Bittersweet Ski Resort
Location: 600 River Rd., Otsego, MI
Founded in 1982, Bittersweet Resort is a family-run ski and snowboarding destination in Otsego, Michigan, just 6 miles from the US 131 Highway. The resort boasts 350 feet of vertical drop, 20 trails, six chair lifts—including two high-speed ones—three magic carpets, and two rope tows. Ski and snowboarding lessons are always available, along with quality rental equipment, a full-service bar and cafeteria, live music on weekends, and special events throughout the season.
Timber Ridge
Location: 07500 23 1/2 Street, Gobles, MI
When the weather turns chilly, visit the historic Timber Ridge Ski Area, the most established ski hill in Southwest Michigan. Their location in Gobles, MI, is favored for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and other winter activities. Visit them to experience Michigan’s winter season with flair.
Tobogganing, Tubing and Sledding
For a thrill-filled day on the snow, head to one of these popular toboggan runs or tubing hills for fast-paced fun. If you’re looking for a more relaxed winter activity than skiing but still want to enjoy the snowy fun in Southwest Michigan, we have the perfect suggestion! Explore some of our top locations in Kalamazoo, where you can go tubing, sledding, or even tobogganing.
Echo Valley Winter Sports Park
Location: 8495 E H Ave, Kalamazoo, MI
Echo Valley is the perfect destination for families and groups searching for wholesome fun. The dedicated team ensures every visitor has a delightful, memorable time with all the available activities. Guests can find food and drinks in the spacious 2100-square-foot lodge, where they can warm up by the circular fireplace while observing tubers and tobogganers or enjoy the scenic view from the deck. All attractions are open to everyone, with no height or age limitations.
Timber Ridge
Location: 07500 23 1/2 Street, Gobles, MI
Looking for an exciting way to embrace winter in Michigan? Head over to Timber Ridge Ski Area, where you can hop on a snow tube, take the NEW moving sidewalk lift to the top, and race down one of nine tubing lanes. Although Timber Ridge provides hundreds of snow tubes, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis, which means tubing passes cannot be purchased in advance. Participants must be at least 5 years old and stand 42 inches tall to join the fun. Wear warm, comfortable footwear, as ski boots are not permitted. Each person must ride solo on their inner tube, but groups of up to four tubes can link together and slide down the lane for safety.
For local sledding hills, check out the following spots:
Kindleberger Park
Situated in the center of Parchment, Kindleberger Park usually comes alive with the laughter and activity of children and families after a fresh layer of snow blankets the ground. A steep hill views a baseball diamond below at the park’s center. Known locally as Scout Hill, this slope provides several routes for sledding enthusiasts during winter. The Parchment Library is conveniently located just west of the park for those needing a break from the cold.
Milham Park Golf Course
For many long-time residents, Milham Park Golf Course is the top choice for sledding in the region. A social media survey repeatedly highlighted this golf course as popular among sledding fans. Managed by the Kalamazoo Municipal Golf Association since the 1930s, the course transforms into a public park during the winter months. Its slopes and curving fairways become accessible to anyone eager to enjoy sledding.
Woods Lake Elementary
It’s unusual not to see children sledding on this hill on snow days and weekends. Situated at the intersection of Parkview Avenue and Oakland Drive, this steep incline just south of the school offers swift rides and ample space for sledding. A small parking area at the top allows parents to watch comfortably from their warm cars without risking injury. After hours of sledding, you can warm up at Oakwood Plaza across the street, where you’ll find a cozy bookstore, a coffee shop, and a neighborhood pub.
Oakland Drive Park
Situated in Portage, Oakland Drive Park features a hill perfect for sledding during the winter months. Surrounded by old-growth trees, this park attracts visitors all year long. You can enter the park from Oakland Drive, about half a mile north of Centre Avenue. The sledding hill is located just north of the parking area, next to the basketball courts.
Snowshoeing
Explore the winter wonderland on snowshoes and take in the peaceful, snow-covered landscapes at these scenic spots.
Lillian Anderson Arboretum
Location: W Main St, Kalamazoo, MI
The Lillian Anderson Arboretum, owned by Kalamazoo College, welcomes the public to enjoy its beauty while respecting conservation efforts. The 140 acres of Oshtemo Township include marshlands, meadows, pine plantations, and deciduous forests.
Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery
Location: 34270 County Rd 652, Mattawan, MI
Visit the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center in Mattawan, Michigan, for guided snowshoeing walks this winter. Learn to use snowshoes in 90-minute sessions and explore winter nature. Equipment is available, or you can bring your own. Weather permitting, the walks are suitable for ages 5+. Check Facebook and call 269-668-2876 for updates.
Snowmobiling
Kalamazoo is home to some fantastic trails perfect for snowmobiling. These scenic routes will pump your adrenaline while you explore the winter landscape. Snowmobilers are required to purchase a Michigan Snowmobile Trail Permit to use the trail. There must be a minimum of 4 inches of snow. Snowmobiles must be registered with the Michigan Secretary of State, and riders MUST display a snowmobile Trail Permit. If you’re looking for a new sled, check out Zeigler Motorsports or Leaders RPM.
Kal-Haven Trail
Location: 10th St, Kalamazoo, MI to Bailey St, South Haven, MI
Take a hike, bike ride, enjoy horseback riding, or simply wander along the Kal-Haven Trail, a 34-mile path stretching from South Haven to Kalamazoo. The trail is perfect for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, with snowmobilers required to have a Michigan Snowmobile Permit. Along the way, you’ll journey through quaint towns, scenic countryside, and lush forests while encountering sites of historical significance. Various towns on the route offer food and accommodations for those on the trail.
Fat Tire Biking
Kalamazoo offers cycling enthusiasts several trails to ride fat-tire bikes through snowy terrain. Fat-tire bikes are ideal for year-round trail exploration. They excel in navigating snowy forests and along icy shores, positively impacting mood and fitness. Due to their enhanced traction, these bikes outperform traditional bikes on rugged terrain such as mud, slush, and rocks.
Expect a workout since the wide tires and usual single gear require more effort. However, their stability makes them suitable for beginners. To adapt, ride on soft snow and choose trails that are not steep; remember that slipping on ice is part of the learning curve.
Al Sabo Land Preserve
Location: 6310 Texas Dr, Kalamazoo, MI
Mountain biking draws many enthusiasts to Al Sabo Preserve. While over two-thirds of the paths were shut down due to erosion, over seven miles are still available for cycling. These include Moab, Atwater, Lookout, and Mandala. Al Sabo Preserve also features two boardwalks, which are somewhat hidden, allowing visitors to reach the water from the elevated hiking trails. Furthermore, several viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of the Preserve, especially during the winter and spring seasons.
Yankee Springs Recreation Area
Location: 2104 Briggs Rd. S, Middleville, MI
Middleville’s Yankee Springs Recreation AreaPDF File offers a thrilling 11.3-mile bike trail with varied challenges and fast descents through pine forests. Parking is available near Deep Lake off Gun Lake and Yankee Springs Road.
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Location: 5163 Fort Custer Drive, Augusta, MI
Discover Fort Custer’s bike trailsPDF File, a 14.9-mile circular path in Augusta, Michigan. Often regarded as a moderately challenging course, it typically requires around four hours and 56 minutes to finish. While it’s a favorite spot for hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers, you can still find moments of peace during less busy times.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and enjoy the winter chill with outdoor ice skating at these local rinks.
Millennium Park
Location: 280 Romence Rd., Portage, MI
Home to the first refrigerated outdoor ice rink in southwest Michigan, Millennium Park provides unique opportunities for all ages. The rink is transformed into a reflecting pond during the spring and summer. Located along Romence Road, just west of South Westnedge Avenue, Millennium Park is in the heart of the shopping district and easily accessible by car or bicycle.
South Haven Ice Rink
Location: 546 Phoenix St., South Haven, MI
If you’re a resident seeking a frosty getaway or a traveler keen on savoring the charm of a Michigan winter, the South Haven Ice Rink is the place for you. Offering economical admission and rental rates, the South Haven Ice Rink ensures that everyone can enjoy the delights of ice skating without breaking the bank.
Winter Events
South Haven Ice Breaker Festival
Location: Downtown South Haven, MI
Prepare for South Haven’s Ice Breaker Festival! The Ice Breaker Festival in South Haven marks a winter highlight every first weekend of February, bringing a festive atmosphere. The event features a variety of activities, including ice sculptures, chili cook-off, and more, creating a joyful environment.
Downtown is alive with events like roasting s’mores and various other activities. A standout is the ice sculpting competition, where large ice blocks are crafted into stunning art. The weekend is filled with exploration of food, drinks, and entertainment.
Saturday features special activities like s’more roasting and the Professional Chili Cook-Off. The evening closes with awards for chili and ice sculpting. The festival also offers wagon rides and ice skating, ensuring entertainment for every visitor.
Timber Ridge Winter Fest
Location: 07500 23 1/2 Street, Gobles, MI
The Timber Ridge Winter Fest is a fun-filled festival with winter sports, activities, and cozy vibes for the whole family. It promises a great time filled with music, delicious food, and fantastic prizes. Enjoy the Cardboard Classic Sled Race, Penguin Slide, snow volleyball, horseshoes, and many other exciting activities.
Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week
Location: Kalamazoo County
Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week is dedicated to honoring the craft beverage industry. This event is perfect for anyone who loves hand-crafted drinks created by individuals passionate about providing an enriching experience and unique flavors.
Participants will have the chance to meet the brewers, distillers, and winemakers, gaining insight into the process of creating these complex and sought-after beverages. This experience aims to deepen the appreciation for the craft beverage industry.
Kalamazoo County Restaurant Week
Location: Kalamazoo County
Kalamazoo’s Restaurant Week and Cocktail Competition occur bi-annually. Winter Restaurant Week is designed to awaken our senses from the dreariness of Michigan’s winter. Local top-tier chefs and mixologists eagerly present innovative flavors for you to savor!
