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By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor
PENTWATER TOWNSHIP — Take a break from the stress of daily life and venture into the serene woodlands of the Pentwater Pathways where peace and quiet prevail.
The pathways consist of 7.2 different trail miles that form four loops. If you ski each loop — which duplicate in some spots — you can ski over 15 miles. There are beginner to advanced trails.
I spent the good part of a recent sunny afternoon skiing the well-groomed trails of the Pentwater Pathways located in the beautiful Pere Marquette State Forest. The area is under the care of the Michigan Wildlife Division of the Department of Natural Resources and the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association, and the trails are groomed routinely. There is no fee for using the trails.
During the non-winter months, you can hike and mountain bike on the trail system.
Snowshoers must travel alongside the trails, so they don’t destroy the well-maintained grooves for the skiers.
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There are signs of wildlife as you travel through the Narnia-like woods, and you just may get to see one of the many creatures who live there if you’re lucky. Although I didn’t see any animals on the trail, I encountered one while driving. A coyote crossed US 31 near Rothbury as I traveled to the pathways.
Unlike busy alpine ski resorts, there are no crowds of people. During my recent solo expedition, I encountered only one other person.
No motorized vehicles are allowed, although the paths cross some snowmobile trails in the area. The pathways are clearly marked to warn skiers when they are crossing a snowmobile trail.
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Maps along the route guide you, and markers indicate the skill level for each path. It’s important to pay attention to where you’re going, so you don’t end up on a trail that is too difficult for your skill level. Some trails are hilly, and you should avoid the hills if you’re not a very experienced skier. Going uphill and downhill on nordic skis is more challenging than it looks.
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Make sure to use the 52nd/Railroad Avenue entrance off of Longbridge Road to enter Pentwater Pathways. The two-track from Wayne Road is a private road and is no longer plowed. From Monroe Road, follow Longbridge Road two miles around Pentwater Lake to Railroad Avenue; take the last road on the left before B-15/Ridge Road; and go one mile to Pentwater Pathways Trail on the left.
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Cross country skiing is one of the best cardiovascular workouts you can do. According to Women’s Fitness, if you’re in
A bench made out of old skis situated along the trail.
good shape and well-versed in the sport, you can burn up to 20 calories per minute — which is over 1,000 calories an hour! It is best to dress in layers, so you can shed them as you become overheated. When it’s 20 degrees outside and you’re sweating, you know you’re getting a good workout. Knee-high socks are recommended, so your socks don’t constantly slip down while you’re exercising. Bring lots of water, because you will work up a thirst.
It was a magical journey through the gorgeous woodland. I skied about four miles and would have kept on skiing if I had more time and didn’t get so hungry! Afterwards, a sizzling cheeseburger and a cold beer at the Brown Bear in downtown Pentwater took care of that problem.
If we get some fresh powder, I will definitely be back on the trails to savor the tranquility again soon.
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Over 100 people participated in the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association’s Ski Free Sunday event at the nordic trails in Crystal Valley Sunday, Jan. 26, according to the ski association. Families took advantage of using free ski equipment. The next and final event is set for Sunday, Feb. 9, from 1-4 p.m., contingent upon the weather. The Crystal Valley trail system is also maintained by the OCCSA.
Map of the Crystal Valley Ski Trails.
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