BENZONIA, MI--(Marketwired - Jan 2, 2015) - Winter events in Benzie County are the many reasons people in the "know" book their getaways to "the best place in Michigan for outdoor sports and recreation." One of the most popular family oriented winter events is Winterfest in Beulah to be held this year on Saturday, February 14, 2015. Winterfest in Beulah is a day packed with fun, food, and other unique winter activities including a chili cook-off, snowmobile poker run, annual children's fish toss competition, horse drawn wagon rides, children's frozen turkey bowling, the Winterfest Parade, and a bonfire on the beach with fireworks in the evening over majestic Crystal Lake. One of the highlights of Winterfest are the Sheriff's Department Dive Rescue demonstrations on Crystal Lake, a fascinating and informative visual journey to learn how the Dive Team searches underwater in icy conditions. Families can gather out on the ice of Crystal Lake to watch as divers go under the ice. Everything is safe and secure above the ice as watchers wait 5 minutes or more for the divers to emerge.
Benzie County has 135 miles of snowmobiling trails and spectacular sights for winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. In addition to 30 miles of Lake Michigan coastline along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for snowshoeing, Benzie County has over 50 inland lakes for ice fishing and 22 miles along the Betsie Valley Trail for cross country skiing.
If you're looking for downhill skiing and snowboarding, look at Crystal Mountain in Benzie County named Condé Nast Travelers 50 Best Places to Ski and Stay in North America (2011). Crystal Mountain was also awarded 2013's Visitors' Choice Award for Best Terrain in the Midwest by "OnTheSnow" the most visited ski and snowboard-related website. "OnTheSnow" awards are considered to be the most comprehensive user-generated ski resort awards in the world. Crystal Mountain also has ice-skating, ice-hockey, dog sledding and more, as well as, luxurious spa services at the relaxing Crystal Spa. Children's activities and events take place almost daily. They also feature superb dining for romantic getaways or family gatherings at two onsite restaurants. For more information see crystalmountain.com or call (231) 378-2000.
Discover the beauty of wintertime in Benzie County this season. Lodging choices, include quaint cottages, cozy cabins, apartments, historical hotels, and Crystal Mountain. For assistance with lodging choices and to learn more about activities, events, and nearby award-winning wineries, breweries, and unique restaurants in the area visit www.visitbenzie.com.