DEAR NEIGHBOR:

Whether you plan an afternoon on the slopes or a snowmobile weekend, a Michigan winter adventure awaits.

Along with scores of outdoor recreational opportunities, our many local festivals and winter events promise family fun and entertainment, too. This Winter Guide highlights many of these great activities.

Winter tourism provides an important economic boost to the state and local economies. So when you spend your leisure and sporting dollars at home, you help support many small businesses and communities.

Best wishes for a safe and exciting Michigan winter!

Sincerely,

SENATE DISTRICT 32TOLL-FREE 855.347.8032 • VISIT www.SenatorKenHorn.com

S T A T E S E N A T O R

KEN HORN

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MICHIGAN STATE PARKS OFFER FOUR SEASONS OF FUNMost state parks and recreation areas are open to winter hiking and many open their trails up for cross country skiers. Snowshoers can walk next to the groomed trails or use single-track hiking trails. Rustic cabins, lodges and yurts are available; select parks even offer winter camping!

Dozens of parks provide a designated snowmobile area as well. Four inches of snow or more is required to operate a snowmobile within a state park and any trail riding must take place on trails designated for such use. A luge track at Muskegon State Park — one of only four tracks in the country — offers an exciting experience for outdoor adventurers!

Find information on Michigan’s state parks at www.michigan.gov/dnr; click on State Parks. A state recreation passport is needed for park entry; campsite fees are extra.

PURE MICHIGAN ON ICEThe Pure Michigan Winter Travel Guide features cold weather fun and adventure, including snowmobiling and skiing, as well as tips to capture awesome outdoor photo ops! The glossy travel guide also contains shopping and culinary destinations and great spots for indoor and outdoor family activities. Check out the digital magazine at www.michigan.org and start planning your winter getaway.

STATE SENATOR KEN HORN • TOLL-FREE 855.347.8032

NEW ICE SHANTY RULES MORE USER

FRIENDLYIce shanties are a seasonal reminder that Michigan fishing is great all year long!

Legislation signed into law earlier this year gives more flexibility for shanty ID requirements and removal dates. Public Act 25 of 2018 provides increased privacy by permitting owners to post their driver license number or DNR Sportcard

number instead of their name and address on the outside of the structure. The new law also allows the Department of Natural Resources to adjust

shanty removal dates each year based on regional weather conditions.

MICHIGAN IS SNOWMOBILE COUNTRY!

Michigan’s fantastic trail system, natural beauty and down-home hospitality provide a great riding experience.

The marked and groomed trail network allows riders to travel hundreds of miles on scenic, inter-connecting trails. Trail towns offer food,

lodging and friendly service. In addition, the DNR provides designated snowmobile trail and route maps in printable and downloadable formats.

Find information on permits, rules and regulations, places to ride and more at www.michigan.gov/snowmobiling.

Snowmobiling is an economic powerhouse — trip spending generates $500 million in income each year and 6,455 jobs!

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LET IT SNOW!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR FREE FISHING FUNDuring Michigan’s Winter Free Fishing Weekend, anglers have the perfect opportunity to try cold weather fishing and reel in favorites such as yellow perch, bluegill, pike, smelt and walleye. All fishing license fees are waived during this annual event — held Feb. 16 and 17 this year. All fishing regulations still apply. A Recreation Passport is not required for entry into state parks and recreation areas during this special weekend. Many free fishing events are hosted across the state. Find out more at www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

Tip-Up-Town USA, Houghton Lake, January 18-20; 25-27 www.houghtonlakechamber.net

North American International Auto Show, Detroit, Jan. 19-27 https://naias.com

Zehnder’s Snowfest; Frankenmuth, Jan. 23-28 www.zehnders.com/event/zehnders-snowfest

International 500 Snowmobile Race, Sault Ste. Marie Jan. 27- Feb. 2 http://i-500.com

Continental Cup Ski Jumping Tournament, Iron Mountain Feb. 8-10 www.kiwanisskiclub.com

UP 200, Midnight Run and Jack Pine 30 Sled Dog Races, Marquette & Gwinn, Feb. 14-18 www.up200.org

Michigan’s Winter Free Fishing Weekend, Statewide, Feb. 16-17 www.michigan.gov/freefishing

Michigan Snowmobile Festival, Gaylord, Feb. 23 www.gaylordmichigan.net