7 Incredible Winter Activities in the Brighton Howell Area

December 3, 2024

Whether you’re looking for family fun in the snow or thrilling challenges on the ski hill, your winter wonderland awaits you in the Brighton Howell Area. Sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling are just a few of the activities to create lasting memories. There is snow much fun to be had in the Brighton Howell Area with these seven incredible winter activities.

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1. Sledding

Nothing says winter fun more than sledding down a snowy hill. The Orchard Picnic Area in Kensington Metropark offers four different hills perfectly crafted for downhill sledding. Designed for toddlers and young children, the bunny hill is lined with paddled trees. The beginner and intermediate slopes offer a bit more excitement. Whereas the advanced slope provides the steepest and most curvy path.

At the Genoa Township Park, explore the sledding hill equipt with a 40ft drop. This park also has a heated pavilion and bathrooms nearby to warm up on the coldest winter days.

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2. Ice Skating and Ice Hockey

This winter season, lace up your ice skates to glide across the natural ice rinks in the Brighton Howell Area. On Kent Lake in Kensington Metropark, two separate rinks give skaters enough space and safety for a fun outing! One rink is designated for families and free skating while the another is for ice hockey players.

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3. Skiing and Snowboarding

Calling all ski and snowboard enthusiasts – Mt. Brighton is the place for you! Owned and operated by Vail Resorts, this 19-trail mountain is the perfect destination for all skill levels. Skiiers and snowboards will love the five chairlifts, five tow ropes, and two surface lifts for a quick trip up the mountain. Don’t forget to bring the little ones! With a new Children’s Ski & Ride School Center, they can learn and practice on the bunny hill.

After a few runs, head inside to warm up at the Ore Creek Mountain Grill, a full-service bar and restaurant.

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4. Sleigh Rides

Ride through the snow, in a horse drawn sleigh. Enjoy an old-fashioned sleigh ride at Kensington Metropark. Bring the whole family to ride through this metropark to enjoy the scenary. All rides are wheelchair accessible and subject to change.

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5. Snowmobiling

If you’re looking for some snowmobile fun, the Brighton Howell Areas has you covered. With over 14 miles of trails for perfectly groomed snowmobiles in Island Lake State Recreation Area, explorers will have plenty of ground to cover. These trails offer both flat and hilly terrain, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Plan out your snowmobiling adventure with their trails online.

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6. Ice Fishing

Your favorite sport doesn’t end once the lakes freeze over. So, grab your overalls, put your wool socks on, and grab your reel in the Brighton Howell Area. The area boasts lakes to ice fish on during the winter seasons. Head to Kent Lake to find Bluegill, Lack Crappies, Yellow Perch, and the occasional Northern Pike. If you’re looking for trout, you can find them at Island Lake State Recreation Area.

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7. Cross County Skiing

There is no lack of trails in the Brighton Howell Area. On your next winter getaway, bring your cross-county skies to explore the many snowy trails in the area. Kensington Metropark offers 12 miles of trails with both beginner and intermediate skill levels. At Island Lake State Recreation Area, adventure on the 18 miles of cross-country trails from open brush land to mature hardwood forest.

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The Brighton Howell Area is the perfect destination for your next winter getaway. Fill your intinerary with these fun-filled activities to create magical memories in the snow. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on winter events, information, and more!

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Attractions Outside Activities