7 Incredible Winter Activities in the Brighton Howell Area

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 features four distinct 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 equipped with a 40ft drop. This park also features a heated pavilion and nearby bathrooms, perfect for warming up on the coldest winter days.

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 other is for ice hockey.

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3. Skiing and Snowboarding

Ski and snowboard enthusiasts will love Mt. Brighton. Owned and operated by Vail Resorts, this 19-trail mountain is the perfect destination for all skill levels. Skiers and snowboarders 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

Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

This winter season, take an intimate and cozy ride through the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh! Bring the whole family to take in the picturesque scenery within Kensington Metropark. All rides are wheelchair accessible and subject to change.

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5. Fat Tire Biking

Under a blanket of snow, the trails housed in the Brighton Howell Area are the ultimate fat tire biking destination. Within Island Lake Recreation Area, the Purple Trail goes through an old gravel mining area that's been labeled "The Badlands". This trail offers a range of terrain perfect for fat tire biking.

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!