National Geographic Names a Michigan State Park One of the Best

Winter doesn’t exactly scream “let’s go explore,” especially here in Michigan. At least, that’s not what it’s screaming to me. Once the snow piles up and the temps drop, most of us slip straight into hibernation mode. Or maybe that’s just me. But according to National Geographic, we might be doing winter all wrong.

Why National Geographic Picked This Michigan State Park

National Geographic just put together a list of state parks across the country that are actually better in winter, when things calm down, and the crowds disappear. Out of thousands of parks nationwide, only nine made the list. And yep, Michigan made the cut.

The park getting all the national love is Muskegon State Park. And I’ll be honest, I’ve lived in Michigan my entire life and somehow never made it there. How is this possible? Once winter hits, the park completely changes, with skiing, hiking, and fat tire biking instead of packed summer crowds.

Another big draw is the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. Yes, an actual public luge track. In Michigan. That alone feels like one of those things most of us have lived here forever and somehow never realized was even an option.

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The park also has ice sleds, sit skis, and all-terrain wheelchairs that actually work on snow, which means more people can get out and enjoy it instead of being stuck inside all winter.

The video below gives you a solid idea of what this place is like in winter, and why National Geographic put it on the list.