Winter in metro Detroit gets an icy reception—most of us simply hunker down for three months of cabin fever. But cold and snow doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Macomb County has a winter wonderland of activities that'll energize your body while they warm your spirit. Here’s a list that’ll keep you moving, grooving and feeling fantastic all winter long.
• 1. Nature’s Rx for Winter Wellness: Trade digital screens for unforgettable scenes this winter at Stony Creek Metropark. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air, soak in the snow-covered beauty, and get your heart pumping with a rejuvenating hike or a cross-country ski. Spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress, improve mood, and boost creativity.
• 2. Unleash Your Inner Zen: Go from frost to found at the Cairns Community Center. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve flexibility or simply stay fit during winter, the Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of wellness programs to help you nurture body and soul, from yoga and cardio drumming to pickleball, open-run basketball and Zumba classes.
• 3. Channel Your Inner Zamboni: Macomb County has a thriving hockey community, with clubs for players of all ages and skill levels. Check out local clubs like the Mount Clemens Hockey Club, Chippewa Valley Hockey Club, and Macomb United Hockey Club to find your perfect fit. Grab your stick and let the puck drop on a new adventure.
• 4. Snowy Sole Mates: Don't put your running and walking shoes in deep-freeze this winter—wear them to the free City Sneakers Running Club. They meet every Tuesday at 5:45 PM at a rotating lineup of downtown Mount Clemens restaurants. Afterward, warm up with food and conversation. Seasoned runner or casual walker, you’ll find camaraderie in every step.
• 5. Hit the Ice: Lace up your skates and put your hibernating on ice. Mount Clemens Ice Arena offers public skating sessions for adults, families, and kids of all ages. Ice skating is a full-body workout that improves balance, coordination and cardiovascular health. The arena also hosts special events like themed skate nights, and offers beginner-friendly lessons.
• 6. Wellness on Wheels: Skating in winter usually means ice skating—but it doesn’t have to. Instead, get on a roll at Shelby Township’s New Rink roller sports complex (thenewrink.com). They offer a variety of roller sports activities, from roller skating and roller hockey to inline skating and skateboarding. All ages and skill levels will have a ‘wheely’ good time.
• 7. Get in the Zone at Twilight: Looking for a fresh way to stay active while you appreciate nature’s beauty? Try a self-guided luminary trail walk at Lake St. Clair Metropark. As darkness falls, the park glows with moonlit magic, creating a ‘lit-erally’ breathtaking