By Daniel Arnold – Collegiate Staff
While December’s snowfall was less than expected, January has already accumulated 22.7 inches of snow. Due to lake-effect snow, West Michigan tends to receive more snow accumulation than other parts of the state. There are many winter activities keeping people entertained, consequently the price can be quite extreme.
Rosa Parks Circle
In the summer, Rosa Parks Circle hosts many concerts and events. However, Rosa Parks Circle is transformed into a wonderful ice rink during the winter. Because Rosa Parks Circle is located near wonderful architecture and beautiful sights, one can admire a piece of Grand Rapids history whilst skating. Open skate takes place on Monday: noon-5:45 p.m. and Tuesday through Sunday: noon-9:45 p.m. For more information, visit grcity.us and search Rosa Parks Circle Ice Skating.
Blandford Nature Center
During winter, Blandford Nature Center is transformed into a beautiful, snowy wonderland. Blandford offers breathtaking trails where people can cross-country ski or hike, and the visitor’s center offers skis for rent. Visit blandfordnaturecenter.org to learn more, as well as view rental prices.
White Pine Trail
Michigan has an abundance of snowmobile trails throughout the entire state, and Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park boasts one of the best. The park is open to anyone when there is more than four inches of snow on the ground and, at 92 miles long, certainly offers the beauty that so many Michiganders under appreciate. The trail passes farms, forests and an array of waterways. Visit whitepinetrail.com for more information.
Pando Park
Pando Park is a winter sports park located in Rockford. Visitors can participate in a variety of activities, such as skiing, snowboarding or tubing. The Pando Park website ensures the park will “continue to grow” and “add new features” in the future. Pando Park is open Monday through Friday: 5-10 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m.-10p.m. and Sunday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Visit pandopark.com for weekly specials, holiday hours and more.
Use the RaiderCard
There are many alternatives to these outdoor activities that can be accessed using a GRCC RaiderCard. Many indoor venues, such as the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Grand Rapids Public Museum, offer free general admission to students who present a RaiderCard. For more information about the area participants and their websites, visit grcc.edu and search “Get out there and see GR.”
