As the last string of Christmas lights is taken down and the gloom of January sets in, many of us feel tempted to curl up in a warm blanket and hibernate until spring. However, studies have shown that getting outside and embracing the season is the best way to stay healthy and combat winter blues. Midland is filled many reasons to venture out for some seasonal fun.
Enjoy all Midland City Forest offers
Every winter,
Midland City Forest transforms into a magical landscape with activities the whole family can enjoy. Race down their lighted sled hills or enjoy ice skating outside the chalet. Unwind along 7.5 miles of groomed trails (including a .7 mile lighted loop) for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. When you're ready to thaw out, head to the City Forest Chalet for hot chocolate and snacks.
Bring your own gear for a day of fun or rent on-site through the Chalet during open hours.
- Friday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.
Activities are weather-dependent, so check their
website and social media for the latest updates on conditions and closures. Don’t forget to check out the up-coming
Cardboard Sled Races.
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City of MidlandEmerson Park ice rink has lights for nighttime use.Skate at Emerson Park
Bundle up and glide across the ice at
Emerson Park’s outdoor rink. Hockey fans can enjoy a regulation-size rink that is free for public use and accessible during standard park hours. The rink's concrete base is covered with water in the winter, and hockey nets can be accessed on a first-come, first-served basis. A light timer for user operation is available for evening play, with instructions displayed on-site.
Snowshoe at Chippewa Nature Center
Discover the quieter side of winter along the
Chippewa Nature Center’s trails. If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, borrow a pair at no charge and join a free guided hike through meadows, forests, and riverside paths.
Inside the visitor center, learn about Michigan’s winter wildlife or simply take a break while watching wildlife from their River Overlook. To wind down and warm up, the center also has a quaint gift shop and the Bur Oak Theater to learn more out Midland’s natural resources.
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Whiting Forest FacebookThe Whiting Forest Canopy Walk looks picture perfect in winter too.Stroll the Whiting Forest Canopy Walk
Experience a bird’s-eye view of the snow-covered treetops at Dow Gardens’ Whiting Forest Canopy Walk, which stretches 1,400 feet and reaches 40 feet above ground. The forest has over three miles of hard-surfaced pathways that are barrier-free but icing conditions may cause temporary closures. Check the
website for information.
Don’t forget to end your canopy journey at the Whiting Forest Café. Warm up with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and treat yourself to one of their sandwiches and snacks.
Shop and dine Downtown
If you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors but need something less exhilarating than flying down a sled hill, visit Downtown Midland. The frenzy of holiday shopping is over, leaving behind the quiet beauty of winter. Browse boutiques and specialty shops or take a short walk to enjoy a hearty meal or steamy cup of coffee at a local restaurant.
Downtown Midland is always busy with activities that bring the community together. On Feb. 1, the streets will be filled with delicious treats during the
Sweetscapes event. Guests can enjoy complimentary sample-sized treats as they explore participating downtown retailers and shops.
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