Understanding the importance of winter recreational activities, Governor Rick Snyder has issued a proclamation declaring January as “Discover Michigan Snow Sports Month.”

The proclamation states that, “during this month, we encourage Michigan residents and visitors to learn more about and take advantage of the many snow sports Pure Michigan has to offer.”

“We are pleased that Governor Snyder sees the importance of Michgian’s winter travel and recreational activities,” says Steve Kershner, chairman of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association and Director of Snowsports at Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire.  “Winter travel accounts for nearly 1/3 of the $17.7 billion-a-year Michigan travel industry,” Kershner adds, noting that no matter where you live in the state, you are within a 2-hour drive of a ski area.  Click here to view the proclamation.

To make it easy and affordable to try skiing or snowboarding, the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) offers a program called “Discover Michigan Skiing, which includes: a beginner lesson, ski or snowboard rental equipment and a beginner-area ski lift pass or cross-country trail pass.  Twenty-four ski facilities are offering the package, which is honored through January 31.  Prices are: $20 for Discover Michigan Cross-Country Skiing; $30 for Discover Michigan Downhill Skiing; and $40 for Discover Michigan Snowboarding.  The program is open to everyone 7 years and older.  For more information about Discover Michigan Skiing, click here.