Dec. 2, 2009
The Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center in P.J. Hoffmaster State Park near Muskegon has announced its dates for winter snowshoe hikes. The center is located at 6585 Lake Harbor Rd. in Muskegon.
The snowshoe hikes planned are:
Moonlight Snowshoe Hike - Saturday, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. Participants should meet at the Visitor Center by 6:45 to be fitted with snowshoes. Refreshments following the hike will be provided by the Gillette Nature Association.
Family Snowshoe Hike - Saturday, Feb. 6, at 11 a.m. There will be a snowshoe hike for those wanting a family outing. This nature adventure will be slow paced and will include lots of outdoor discoveries.
Kids Snowshoe Hike - Saturday, Feb. 13, at 11 a.m. There will be a snowshoe hike just for kids. Although this hike is set up for children, one adult must accompany each family group. This hike is limited to 20 people.
Cardio Snowshoe - Saturday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m. There will be a longer snowshoe hike which will include challenging up and down terrain. This is not recommended for younger children.
Snowshoes are available from the Gillette Nature Association for a donation of $5 which helps offset the costs of maintaining the shoes and buying replacement parts. Due to limited space and equipment, reservations for all hikes are required, and can be made by calling the visitor center at (231)798-3573.
A valid State Park Motor Vehicle Permit is required for park entry. Permits are available for purchase at the park office or at the visitor center on the program days. Michigan residents can purchase a daily pass for $6 or an annual pass for $24. Out-of-state residents can purchase a daily pass for $8 or $29 for an annual pass.