Beautiful Benzie County, Michigan, has been on the receiving side for perfect winter weather this season. Cold temperatures and an abundance of snow in Northern Michigan have helped to launch another spectacular winter in a location where snow sports are top notch. Benzie County is the perfect escape for a week or weekend for those who like winter sports and outdoor adventure. New this season are snow mobile rentals to experience 135 miles of groomed natural trails, and dog sled excursions that the entire family can enjoy. These activities along with excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, snowshoeing along the dunes on Lake Michigan's shore, and over 40 kilometers of groomed cross country skiing trails give those who seek winter adventure a chance to see Michigan's beautiful scenery along with their outdoor fun.

According to Mary Carroll, President of Benzie County Visitor's Bureau, "The temperatures and the significant amount of natural snowfall so far this season has contributed to the high quality of snow for such sports as downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling." Brian Lawson, Director of Public Relations for Crystal Mountain adds, "We're skiing and snowboarding on nearly four feet of base and the lake effect snow has provided a nice blanket of powder for the last two weeks. We plan to have all of our downhill terrain open for Christmas weekend and all 40km of our cross-country trails are currently ready to go."

Downhill & Cross Country Skiing

One of Parents Magazine's Ten Best Snow Resorts for Families (2009) and rated #1 Resort in the Midwest by Ski Magazine, Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa's conditions for downhill skiing and snowboarding are prime. The resort features 45 downhill slopes and two terrain parks. Led by Ron Shepard, a former Professional Ski Instructors of America examiner from Park City, Utah, Crystal's snowsports school features programs for skiers and snowboarders of every age. Visitors can also experience cross-country skiing along 40 kilometers of groomed trails including those through Michigan Legacy Art Park, a 30-acre preserve featuring over 40 outdoor sculptures. The resort also takes pride in being a premier destination for healthy living with a first class fitness center, an extensive list of fitness classes, Peak Performance menu in its restaurants, and Crystal Spa, the Midwest's only LEED-certified spa awarded Favorite Hotel/Resort Spa: Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, & Midwest by Spa Magazine and Top Ten: Winter Sports Spa by SpaFinder. Packages can be reserved online at www.crystalmountain.com or by calling 800-968-7686, ext. 5100.

Dog Sledding

Crystal Mountain Resort has partnered with Wiggins' Mountainside Huskies this season to offer a family experience you won't soon forget -- dog sledding. Sleds are pulled by four to six Siberian Huskies along Crystal Mountain's wooded trails. Rides are available on select evenings by advance reservation. 30-minute rides start at $70. For more information about dog sledding excursions, contact Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa at (800) 968-7686 ext. 7000.

Snow Mobile Rentals

Crystal Adventures, located on M-115, just two miles from Crystal Mountain, is offering snow mobile rentals by the day or weekend with prices ranging from $100 for four hours on a non-holiday weekday to $195 for an all day rental during the holidays. Advance reservations are required. Accessories such as helmets can also be rented. Guided snowmobile trips are offered on some dates as well as snowmobile delivery and pick-up for a modest cost. Contact Crystal Adventures at 231-651-9648 for more information.

Benzie County's 135 miles of groomed and challenging snowmobile trails are spread throughout the county in three locations: East of the village of Honor, in Thompsonville, and in Beulah. There are maps showing the trails, as well as, staging areas, available at the Benzie County Visitors Bureau located on US31 in the village of Benzonia. Contact Benzie Country Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801 or see www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport and one in which anyone can take part. Snowshoeing doesn't require a lot of advanced training and is a great group activity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some of the most majestic locations for snow shoeing in Benzie County are the Elberta Dunes and Arcadia Dunes along the Lake Michigan Shore.

Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore is nearby to the north and a wonderful destination in any season. Old Indian Trail at the National Park is one of the best places to snowshoe. They also offer guided snowshoeing excursions on the weekends during the winter season. Contact Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park at 231-326-5134 for snowshoe tour hours and other information. More information about snowshoeing at www.visitbenzie.com/winter-fun--14/

Ice Fishing

Benzie County has 57 inland lakes, which are perfect for ice fishermen and women. Make arrangements for your fishing shanty at Crystal Adventure at 231-651-9648. Five Corners Store in Beulah, 100 feet from Crystal Lake, offers bait and tackle for ice fishing. When you have to run back to shore for minnows or wigglers, you can walk instead of drive to Five Corners www.fivecornersstore.com . For more information about ice fishing locations, contact Benzie County Visitors Bureau at 800-882-5801.

Benzie County Winter Events

Benzie County Winterfest in Beulah

Beulah, Michigan

February 13, 2010

Wintertime Parade, Frozen Fish Toss & Snowmobile Poker Run

Fishing Contest on frozen Crystal Lake, Iceboat rides, Chili Cook-off and Fireworks at Dusk

Shiver By The River in Frankfort

Frankfort, Michigan

February 19, 20, & 21, 2010

Featuring SnoCross Competition, a Parade, Kids Snow World Play Area, Ice Bowling, and numerous Warming stations with beverages and food.

Benzie County, 30 minutes Southwest of Traverse City, has miles and miles of beaches and dunes, including over 24 miles along Lake Michigan and 57 inland lakes, quaint towns and villages, and is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is one of the most desirable destinations in the state of Michigan for year round vacationing or second home purchases. Benzie County is the smallest county in Michigan and has only one stoplight in the entire county! Whether you're a nature seeker or more adventurous type, Benzie Country offers something for everyone. As you travel its winding roads from village to village, you'll discover natural beauty and abundant winter fun.