Time to put away the bathing suits, summer toys and camping gear. Cooler temperatures are here, but we're not mad about it! Instead of dreading the onset of winter, you can look forward to fun activities right here in Jackson. Spending a couple of hours outside improves our mood and attitude.
Autumn in Jackson
Autumn season in Jackson is a fresh of breath air. Mother nature puts on quite a show in autumn, displaying stunning colors along the trails and throughout the city. Pack your camera to capture some amazing memories of your trip!
Fat Tire Biking
Riding a bicycle on snow-packed trails is certainly different than riding on roadways in seasons of the year. Bikes with large, thick tires are great for gripping these snowy pathways, such as the DTE Energy Foundation Trail at the Waterloo Recreational area. Ride along icy lakes and snowy pine trees all while taking in the scenic views. You can also go fat-tire biking at Ella Sharp Park.
Lakes
Snowbirds are easily entertained in Michigan winters.Skating on an outdoor pond is always fun -- when you dress warmly, of course. But it's essential to test for ice safety before venturing onto the pond. Make sure the surface is thick enough to support your weight and that of your companions. Strong ice has a bluish tint through its crystal-clear color. Ice that looks milky-white, melted, slushy. and refrozen can be dangerous. You'll find plenty of opportunities available for downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and tubing. Ice fishing, and building a snowman or two are also part of the package.
Hockey
Hockey is a perfect winter activity for kids and adults, and there are lots of opportunities in Michigan! The Jackson Area Hockey Association gets kids started in a safe and nurturing environment. Visit the Optimist Ice Arena in Jackson for open-to-the-public freestyle skating sessions and a pick-up hockey game.
Beer 
Craft beer breweries are a popular trend these days, and Jackson has its share. Check out these “crafty” places:
The Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival is held at the Keeley Park in downtown Jackson in early March.
Nite Lights
Christmas is a magical time of year in Jackson. From November till the end of December, you can drive through the Michigan International Speedway to see the annual Christmas light show with over a million lights on display. If you prefer walking or running, sign up for the annual 5K fun run/walk through the display. Don’t run too fast: you’ll want to see every last decoration!
Snowshoeing 
Hit the snowshoe trail at the Dahlem Conservancy — it’s a great area for singles, couples, and families. This 5-mile trail has a lot to offer, with flat tops, hills, and a few boardwalks to guide you across the ponds. Jackson has a few snowshoe trails, too. Visit Ella Sharp Park and the Waterloo Recreational Area.
Kyle Ryan is an outdoorsman who loves photographing everything in nature. He spends most of the year traveling and enjoys searching for the best breweries around the country.
Published on 10/30/19