WINTER ACCESS TIPS NATURE DOESN’T CLOSE FOR THE SEASON, SO KEEP THESE IN MIND AS YOU VENTURE OUT:
01 HEAD TO THE WEBSITE FIND OUT IF A PROPERTY’S PARKING LOT IS PLOWED Anyone is welcome to explore all preserves and natural areas listed on GTRLC’s website during the winter months, but only some are plowed for easy winter access. Preserves are owned by GTRLC and natural areas are owned by several local units of government, so plowing efforts can vary substantially. GTRLC regularly plows these preserves: • • • • • •
Arcadia Dunes (Baldy and St. Pierre Lots) Upper Manistee Headwaters Misty Acres Lower Woodcock Lake Fruithaven Torch Lake
Many natural areas are also usually plowed (including Maple Bay, Glacial Hills, Antrim Creek, Timbers, Seven Bridges and more) but it’s best to call ahead to be sure. The owner of every property is listed on our website, so when in doubt, call and find out!
SORT PROPERTIES BY ACTIVITY The preserves and trails page on our website allows you to sort by activity, giving you the chance to see which properties are good for your favorite pastime. You can also head directly to any property page to see activity icons. Please keep in mind that while snowshoeing is technically possible at any place where hiking is allowed, access might be difficult due to unplowed lots. We also ask that you refrain from using snowshoes on boardwalks, as they can cause damage.
02 PREPARE FOR THE ELEMENTS! Although some parking lots are plowed, trails and infrastructure aren’t outside of a select few trails groomed for cross-country skiing (Timbers and Glacial Hills). This means boardwalks, trails and other paths can be slippery or covered in deep snow. While that can be part of the fun, be fully prepared to encounter these conditions. That, of course, means that trails described as universally accessible will often not meet that criteria in the winter.
03 CONSIDER THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ALL USERS
We are still in the midst of a pandemic so, please continue to adhere to social distancing and all #recreateresponsibly guidelines while using preserves and natural areas.
WWW.GTRLC.ORG