Family-Outdoors

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will host snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding and more winter-themed events at nine DNR visitor centers across the state in February. In most cases, equipment is available to borrow if participants don't have their own. There is no charge for these "Just Add Snow" programs, but a  Recreation Passport  is required for vehicle entry to state parks.  More than 60 “ Just Add Snow ” programs are offered at the following locations. Click on the "Just Add Snow" icon at the left to see a 30-second video.  Bay City Recreation Area: Saginaw Bay Visitor Center (Bay City) Hartwick Pines State Park Visitor Center (Grayling) Hoffmaster State Park: Gillette Visitor Center (Muskegon) Ludington State Park (Ludington) Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Visitor Center (Ontonogan) Tahquamenon Falls State Park (Paradise) Waterloo Recreation Area (Chelsea) William Mitchell State Park: Carl...

Image via Wikipedia The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19. On that weekend, everyone - residents and non-residents alike - can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply. Michigan has been celebrating Winter Free Fishing Weekend annually since 1994 as a way to promote awareness of the state's vast aquatic resources. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a natural match. "Michigan offers some of the finest freshwater fishing in the world, including during the winter months," said DNR Director Rodney Stokes. "Fishing is an inexpensive activity anyone can pursue ? as an individual or as a family. We encourage you to get out this February and experience it for yourself, for free!" To encourage involvement in Free Fi...