HARBOR SPRINGS, MI – So many outdoor lovers know the beauty of a snowshoe trek or a hike through a forest during a Michigan winter. For the first time, one of the state’s biggest ski resorts is rolling out a new treat for people who really enjoy a walk in the woods.
Boyne Highlands has created The Enchanted Trail – a two-mile roundtrip walk that you can do with snowshoes or just in your winter boots. The path takes you through the woods, past trees wrapped in hundreds of lights – some are twinkle lights to make it even more magical – and brings you to a rustic yurt. Once there, you can warm up by a bonfire, grab a hot drink or adult beverage, and even fix yourself some s’mores before you head back out through the woods.
“The Enchanted Trail offers a magical experience for all ages,” says Mike Chumbler, Boyne Highlands’ president and general manager. “It’s a really serene and peaceful walk culminating at a beautifully designed yurt where beverages are served, and guests can gather round a bonfire, before journeying back.”
The Harbor Springs resort unveiled the trail event this year as a way to provide more things for guests and visitors to do outdoors where they can be socially distant while taking advantage of the expansive property. With 435 skiable acres, Boyne Highlands is the largest ski resort in the Lower Peninsula. Its sister properties include Boyne Mountain and the Inn at Bay Harbor near Petoskey.
Boyne Highlands’ Enchanted Trail will be open on the weekends and holidays through February. Tickets are required, and cost $15 per person. People can hit the trail from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Hot chocolate and s’mores are included in the price. A cash bar will be available and beverage tickets can also be purchased in advance for the event.
To make a reservation and purchase tickets, check here.
DATES The trail will be open on these dates:
- January: 8 & 9, 15 -17 (MLK Day), 22 & 23, 29 & 30.
- February: 5 & 6, 12 – 14 (Presidents Day), 19 & 20, 26 & 27
IF YOU GO Boyne Highlands has shared these tips for people who plan on visiting The Enchanted Trail:
- The trail is approximately 1 mile each way, or 2 miles roundtrip.
- At the midway point you’ll arrive at a yurt, where drinks are available, along with opportunities for photos.
- Once you’re done visiting the yurt, you’ll turn around and walk the same way back to the Cross Country Center to complete your trail walk.
- You can walk with snowshoes or without, as the trail will be groomed on most days.
- Bring your own snowshoes or rent a pair in the Cross Country Center (advance reservations are recommended).
- Approximate timing is 25-30 minutes walk each way, plus time spent at the yurt; plan on an hour and a half for this experience.
- A portable restroom will be available at the yurt area.
- Social distancing should be practiced on the trail and face masks are required inside the yurt and anytime a distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained from other parties.
For complete event information, lodging reservations, or more information about Boyne Highlands Resort, go online at boynehighlands.com or call 866.759.3530.
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