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Do January and February feel like they’re 25 years long? Is the winter weather taking its toll on your summer-loving self?  Well, we’re here to rescue you from the doldrums with our amazing blog that will bring Summer Vibes even if it’s snowing outside. Today’s post is all about incredible indoor water parks and resorts to experience plenty of fun no matter what weather is happening outdoors.  From waterslides to wave pools to surfing simulators and lazy rivers, we have no doubt that you’re going to find something to suit your tastes.  So what are you waiting for? Time to hop into your new car from Classic and hit the road to waves and splash your way through the snowy season. more Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells is Wisconsin’s biggest waterpark resort, with 4 outdoor and 4 indoor water parks to choose from!  Your family will go positively gaga over the Wild West themed park, the impressive wave pool,a tubing slide, and so much more. The resort also has its own miniature golf course, bumper boats, indoor go kart racing, laser tag, and even zip lining!  As for food and lodging, you’ll have a wide selection of restaurants and cafes to choose from, and multiple accommodations to select from comfortable hotel rooms, private condos, villas, and even cozy cabins at different price points and amenity preferences. Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark at Grand Geneva is an all-season, all-suite family-friendly resort featuring a massive 50,000 square foot indoor waterpark.  Visitors of all ages can also enjoy the WELL Spa and Salon, including fantastic Mommy and Me packages or a Junior Spa option.  Looking to try something different? Head on over to Dan Patch Stables nearby for a bit of equine excitement, or a few rounds of games in the Crazy Coyote Arcade, Timber Ridge Bowling Alley, or The Bruce: Mini Golf Course.  Plus, there’s a brand new Fireside Terrace allowing for some stargazing and hot chocolate by a cozy fire, weather permitting. Grand Bear Resort in Utica is nestled right next door to the stunning Starved Rock State Park, one of our favorite destinations for exploration and adventure!  Keeping true to the area’s natural wonder and appeal, the resort has styled its 24,000 square foot indoor water park with plenty of natural looking features such as evergreens, rock formations, and waterfalls.  In addition, you’ll find 4 delightful restaurants to dine at along with a banquet hall and party room if you’d like to celebrate or host a family reunion. And when you’re feeling a bit waterlogged, you can unwind in the arcade for some good ol’ fashioned fun, or swing by the mini-golf course and challenge your loved ones to a round or two. Grand Harbor Resort and Water Park in Dubuque is open year-round and houses a 25,000 square foot indoor waterpark with rides, slides, and fun for all ages.  Enjoy some tubing rides, rope ladders, a lazy river, activity pool, 2 giant hot tub whirlpools, and multiple waterslides.  The resort offers complimentary breakfasts from 6:30AM to 9/10AM (check schedule for timings/days), as well as the onsite eatery Tony Roma’s Restaurant and Lounge.  Challenge your family and friends to a few rounds of Skee-Ball and more at the Arcade, or perhaps a rousing round of Laser Maze will be more your speed.  Plus, there’s an on site fitness center for the athletes in your midst, which you can enjoy after dropping off the kiddos at the Kidz Club activity center. Big Splash Water-Park in French Lick is jampacked with 40,000 square feet of excitement, including a very unique retractable roof for some indoor-outdoor fun (weather permitting).  This pirate themed park offers the Jolly Roger water slide, Pirate’s Plunder water slide, and the Lost Treasure Lagoon where you can enjoy some splash pad fun and basketball. Plus, there’s a wonderful lazy river feature called Lost River at Big Splash Adventure!  As you can see, there’s no shortage of excitement at southern Indiana’s biggest and best indoor water park.  Perfect for the kids and the kids at heart! Great Wolf Lodge in Mason offers an outstanding array of activities including a top tier indoor water park featuring 8 different pools and 13 impressive water slides!  Looking to take a break from the waterpark? You’ll love the MagiQuest Legacy and ShadowQuest interactive fantasy role play games, Northern Lights Arcade, Ten Paw Bowling Alley, Howl at the Moon Miniature Golf Glow Course, Oliver’s Mining Sluice, and a custom Build-a-Bear workshop.  There’s also 8 different eateries to choose from including a pizza place, wood fire grill, and ice cream parlor! Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park in Osage Beach is part of the Margaritaville Lake Resort, nestled in the stunning Lake of the Ozarks region.  This year-round indoor water park features 600 feet of water slides, an over-sized whirlpool, a lazy river, and an activity pool.  Families will also enjoy the Fin City Bowling Alley and Fin City Arcade, both of which offer extended hours of fun after you dry out from the water park.  For dining, visitors rave about the Landswhark Bar & Grill’s signature Landshark Burgers and Taco Nachos, but that’s not all there is to choose from. You can also check out the JB’s Boathouse Grill for a cozy and hearty breakfast buffet, the License to Chill Bar & Grill, and the upscale dining option Windrose Marker 26 for some Lakeside Dining. Avalanche Bay Water Park in Boyne Falls is the last entry on our list, but so very far from the least– clocking in at an impressive 88,000 square feet of fun, this is Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark that’s always a perfect 84 degrees and open year round.  Choose from the 4-lane Downhill Mat Racer Slide, The Big Couloir slide with a 360 degree Super LOOP, Vertigo Cannonball slide with a giant swirl feature, The Super-G Slide bringing you indoors and out and in again, and the Pink & Purple slides which are family-friendly for guests of all ages.  Then there’s the Splasherhorn Play Structure adventure park with 800-gallon water avalanche, Rip Zone Surf Simulator, Haute Route Water Crossing Challenge, Lazy River for lounging, the Glacier Hot Springs tubs, and two sizes of pools to choose from.  In the winter, the resort also offers MoonBike Tours on an e-bike snow vehicle, Zipline Adventures around Boyne Mountain, Winter Tubing Parks with 700 feet of lane, Sno-Go Biking, Fat Tire Snow Biking, Cross Country Skiing, and much, much more.

Looking for an exciting new destination for winter vacation getaways? Look no further than the stunning Glacial Lakes and Prairies region of South Dakota!  The winter weather transforms the beautiful landscape into glistening snow-covered prairies and sparkling glacial-covered lakes.  Located in northeastern South Dakota, this area is prime real estate for winter sports such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice fishing!  So grab your winter gear and buckle up, because we’re hitting the road to fun and adventure on today’s blog. more Aberdeen While there’s no options here for downhill skiing, there’s still plenty of thrills and chills to be had.  Ice Skating is available at two outdoor rinks and 1 indoor rink: Lincoln Elementary School and Manor Park, and Odde Ice Arena (indoors).  Cross-Country Skiing is available on the groomed trails at Manor Park and Lee Park Golf Course.  The Curling League meets every Wednesday and plays at the Holum Expo Building.  Downhill sledding is free at Baird Park and Richmond Lake areas. Snowshoeing is allowed in all parks across Aberdeen except on groomed cross-country trails; it is also allowed in select areas such as Richmond Lake and Mina Lake recreation areas.  Snowmobiling is available on the 72-mile groomed trails circling round the Richmond Lake Recreation Area.  Forest Drive unit offers a scenic drive, multi-use trails, and a warming shelter that starts the local snowmobile trail; cross-country ski trails are groomed seasonally. The area is also a top destination for waterfowl hunters, and in select months you can join in on a guided buffalo hunt tour (Dec-Feb) at the Royal Flush Hunting Lodge. Pierre Fort Sisseton Historic State Park features original historic structures and military fort historic exhibits and relics, but it’s also a perfect destination to visit for some wintertime hiking and snowshoeing.  Take the Fort Sisseton Trail through the frozen wetlands and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Farm Island Recreation Area offers 3 loops along the Exploration Nature Trail for snowshoeing and cross country skiing and has a warming shelter if you need a break. You can also do some river fishing for walleye, northern pike, crappie, bluegill, perch and more; be sure to check out Lake Oahe to do some Atlantic Salmon ice fishing from a boat or on shore. Watertown and Webster Ice Fishing is a big pastime in the area at the multiple lakes in this region.  The Kampeska Lodge and Store and Doug’s Marina are hotspots for bait and tackle, so be sure to stop by and grab all your gear before heading out to the ice. Sandy Shore Recreation Area and Pelican Lake Recreation Areas offer a wide amount of walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, perch and more.  Bitter Lake and Waubay Lake are just a few miles apart and both offer some of the best walleye and perch in the country with a great catch rate; the Waubay National Wildlife Refuge offers 15,000 acres of land to explore including ice fishing on the Lake. Coteau Des Prairies offers more than 340 miles of trails through woodlands, lakes, and connects several communities together. Visitors recommend Four Lakes Trail, Sioux Trail, and Heartland Trail.

We’re taking a break from our skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing coverage to bring you an exciting change up in winter sports: fat tire biking!  Fat Tire biking features a frame similar to the typical mountain bike, but the key difference being the bikes are built to accommodate much wider, thicker tires: anywhere from 3.5” up to 6” in average width, and wheel sizes of 26”-27.5”.  These special tires allow cyclists to run the bikes at low pressure and afford additional grift on softer, slippery surfaces such as mud, sand, and snow.  They come in a standard pedal bike option as well as an E-Bike option. more What to Know When Starting Out Fat Tire Biking First, dress warmly in comfortable, stretchy layers of winter and water repellant clothing.  We recommend a wool base layer for insulation and a hard-shell outer layer for a wind/waterproof option.  You’ll want comfortable, grippy boots and UV protectant eyewear or goggles.  Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and an additional set of clothing in case you run into water, snow, or mud and need to change into something dry. Always pack a flashlight, reflective flags and flares, and a digital tire gauge/portable pump.  Charge all of your devices and bring a portable power bank as well, and in case of emergencies such as no signal or low power, we recommend purchasing or downloading a physical copy of trail maps in the areas you’re traversing.  Stay on marked and designated trails for your safety, especially in winter when ice and snow are potential hazards.  Stay alert for wildlife, other cyclists, snowshoe travelers, and fallen trees. Some trails allow you to bring your own bikes, while others request that you rent them (generally between $25-$100 for timed rentals, some offer by hour and some per day rate.) If you’re new to the sport, we recommend selecting well-groomed trails with easy terrain to start. Great Midwest Destinations for Fat Tire Biking: Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota Fat Tire Biking in Wisconsin The Northwoods and Lake Superior shoreline offer a beautiful scenic ride for fat tire biking. Check out the Jack Lake Mountain Bike and Winter Fat Tire Trail with 12 miles of trails. The CAMBA Trail System offers more than 50 miles of groomed fat tire biking trails!  You can also stop by during the special “Fat Bike  Birkie” event to access even more famous ski trails. Levis Trow-Mounds offer more than 20 miles of single track off-road bicycle trails and many of them are marked for winter fat-tire biking options.  Daily passes are required. Woolly Trail in St Croix offers a 6 mile loop with plenty of twists and turns along its singletrack trail. CamRock Trails in Cambridge offers 10 mule of Singletrack and 8 miles of multitrack biking that is perfect for all skill levels. Awassa Trail near St. Germain offers groomed trails for fat tire biking as well as snowshoeing. Kettle Moraine State Park offers select mountain biking trails converted to Fat Tire Biking trails, weather permitting. Silver Lake Park offers several loops of single-track trails and if conditions permit you may even see groomed trails across the lake in mid-winter season. Newport State Park in Door County offers 11 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails along the shores of Lake Michigan. Fat Tire Biking in Michigan Crystal Mountain resort offers 12 miles of groomed and packed trails on the property and connected to the nearby DNR Betsie River Pathway for 5 additional miles.  Trails are open daily! Bike rentals and trail passes are available for purchase. Boyne Mountain offers about 3 miles of groomed trail open 9AM to 4PM Wednesday through Sunday (closed Mon-Tue) and offers rentals for regular and electric fat tire biking for 1, 2, and 5 hour increments depending on bike choice. Boyne Highlands offers around 4 miles of groomed trail.  Bike rentals are available to rent for 2 and 6 hour rentals or an all-day pass. Trail passes are $5. Treetops offers a 3 mile groomed bike trail when weather conditions permit, and reservations are required. Bikes rent for 1, 2 or 3 hour increments. Marquette has more than 80 miles of shoreline along Lake Superior and offers 3 groomed trails to choose from: Noquemanon SBR, Noquemanon NSBR, or Ramba SBT trails.  Guided tours with bike rentals are also available Fat Tire Biking in Minnesota Giants Ridge has almost 40 miles of groomed Nordic Trails along the Superior National Forest and Gopher State’s Iron Range. Lift service for fat tire biking is available on marked trails when weather permits. Bike rentals are available for 4 hours or BYO, and trail passes with lift access are available. Minnesota River Trail, aka River Bottoms, runs parallel to the river for 11 miles. This is a very unique trail that winds through the river floodplain and is never the same experience twice, including sand, logs, and water crossings. Mission Creek offers 20 miles of single track trails through the woods west of Duluth.  If you’re looking for a challenge this offers rollers, berms, and bridges for additional excitement. Jay Cooke State Park offers nearly 6 miles of dedicated fat tire bike marked trails.  Icy conditions are common in this area, so use caution, but otherwise you’ll have a quiet, serene ride. Cannon River in Northfield has a looping 3.5 mile trail along with a skills park for practicing and testing your talents. Douglas state trail offers 12.5 mile blacktop trail and predictable, maintained trail terrain through the forests and local agricultural fields between Pine Island and Rochester.

We’re not in Dorothy Gale’s Kansas, anymore, ma!  Today on the blog we’re sharing some incredible places to visit across the beautiful state of Kansas, a real jewel of the Midwest when it comes to winter travel destinations.  There are plenty of beautiful sunny days to explore during the snowy season across The Sunflower State!  So, let’s take a page from the KC Chiefs and enjoy some rest and relaxation after a busy season, and explore some more of the fun things this great state has to offer besides a star football team and Taylor Swift sightings. more State Parks and Nature Areas Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park covers 330 acres of shortgrass prairies and incredible chalk formation rock structures; it’s perfect for hiking, nature photography, and scenic views. Cedar Bluff State Park encompasses two recreational areas with a total of 1,100 acres along the shores of Cedar Bluff Lake; you’ll have a grand time fishing, hunting, wildlife spotting, and hiking. Prairie Dog State Park is situated on the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir and sprawls over 1,150 acres; known as the home of the prairie dogs, nearly 300 of these quirky little guys inhabit the area. Webster State Park and Webster Wildlife Area consist of 8,000+ acres of gorgeous park land that migratory birds like the Bald and Golden Eagles call home for the winter; there’s a pickleball court and disc golf course, as well as plenty of options for hiking, fishing, and archery. El Dorado State Park has more than 4.000 acres to explore that are simply teeming with wildlife all year round!  Take a hike through the snowy trails and keep your eyes peeled for some majestic deer and maybe even a wily coyote or two. Lake Scott State Park is a popular destination for nature photographers thanks to its stunning rock faces and formations, and of course the magical look of the snowcovered lakeshore with frozen waters. Kanopolis Lake State Park has incredible hiking trails and caves just begging to be explored. And we bet those snowcovered red rocks will leave you breathless during your winter visit! Historic Sites and Museums The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is home to an impressive collection of live animals, fossils, and interactive exhibits.  Visitors will enjoy a replicated fossil dig site, hands-on activities in the discovery room, 5 permanent exhibits, and a multitude of special events and rotating exhibits. The Mid America Air Museum houses more than 100 aircrafts on display from warbirds to helicopters, planes, and experimental technology.  Explore each exhibit and learn about the history of air travel and transportation, and be sure to visit the Hall of Aviation Science for up-close-and personal hands-on learning! The Prairie Museum of Arts and History will transport visitors to the life of early prairie settlers with a replica sod house, one-room school, the largest barn in all of Kansas, a church, and a 1930s farmstead. In addition, the museum is also home to the World-Class Kuska Collection featuring more than 28,000 artifacts such as toys, glass, ceramics, coins, clothing, art and more. The Mid-American All-Indian Center is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Middle America’s Native American populations and tribes.  Learn about the history and heritage of local indigenous populations through a visit to the museum, gallery of nations, and interactive exhibits. You can even experience a real live pow-wow and learn more about Native American ceremony and customs, and shop for authentic creations and jewelry. Cosmosphere International Science Education Center and Space Museum is a unique aeronautics and space museum which houses the largest combined collection of both Soviet and American artifacts from space travel.  As the state’s only Smithsonian affiliated museum, it’s the only place in the Midwest to check out a real actual used aircraft from 3 manned space flight missions! Flint Hills Discovery Center is an interactive museum and science center dedicated to exploring and education of the area’s tallgrass prairies.  Visitors can enjoy an immersive theater experience that takes you through different areas and seasons on the prairie, interactive exhibits and hands-on learning about life on the prairie, and a beautiful Prairie Garden Terrace and Trail experience with native wildflowers and plants, informational panels, and gorgeous views. Little House on the Prairie Museum is the official home site of famous children’s author Laura Ingalls Wilder. This replica of Wilder’s 1870 cabin will take visitors back in time as they learn about the pioneer way of the Ingalls family that inspired her children' s books.  There’s also an authentic one-room schoolhouse and a turn of the century post office on site. Arts and Entertainment Karg Art Glass offers a unique gift gallery with hand-blown glass and art across all mediums.  Monday through Saturday at select times you can come by and watch hand-blown glass artisans work their magic live in person. Red Barn Studio Museum offers a unique experience to visit the working studio of professional artist and craftsman Lester Raymer.  You’ll get to tour the studio and view his artwork and craftsmanship in everything from painting to printmaking to ceramics and woodcarving, and so much more. Ulrich Museum of Art at Wichita State University is the region’s premiere source for modern and contemporary art. Visitors will enjoy a large collection of exhibits featuring 20th and 21st century artists. Wichita Art Museum has curated an incredible collection of American Artists including the likes of Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, Louis Nevelson, Georgia O’Keefe and many more.  The stunning Art Garden around the museum features numerous outdoor exhibits and sculptural works as well. Vernon Filley Art Museum features a gift shop and gallery of more than 100 local and regional artists through three different indoor spaces and an outdoor courtyard.  Exhibits are rotated every four months to keep things fresh and exciting! Museum at Prairie Fire focuses on the intersection between science, art, culture, and natural history through a series of dynamic exhibits and interactive programming. Lawrence Arts Center offers a year round catalogue of performing arts events, artistic exhibitions, and innovative creative classes and lectures.  Artists in residence and visiting artists will contribute to an incredible collection of rotating exhibits and installations as well as performance art demonstrations.

If you’ve found yourself longing for a lake day, filled with sunshine, crystal clear water, and day day of fishing, we get it. We feel the same way!  Alas, winter is here to stay for at least another few months, but you needn’t despair!  You can still enjoy a day outdoors with your fishing pals, just might need a few layers to keep out that wind chill, because we’re going ice fishing!  While it’s not quite a day out on the boat, ice fishing is still a very productive hobby for “off season” anglers. Ice fisherman report record weights and sizes with species such as bluegill, yellow perch, crappie, walleye, northern pike, whitefish and if you’re lucky you might even catch a trout or two. more You’ll need a little extra equipment to help you get started, but we bet you’ll find it a worthy investment for your new hobby!  You’ll need enough line to drop your bait between 50” to 100” down where the fish are hibernating.  Basic ice fishing equipment includes: a portable ice shanty, ice pick and ice auger, ice scoop, bucket, sled, pliers, ice fishing rods and line, split shot weights, hooks, bait (such as wax worms, maggots, wigglers, minnows.) Remember to also apply and acquire the necessary fishing and hunting permits and licenses for the regions you’ll be exploring to avoid fines. Experienced fisherman recommend wearing something thick and warm, some reactive hand warmers, flexible but thick gloves, and several layers of clothing.  Consider packing some extra clothes in a backpack or duffel just in case of any mishaps, should you happen to slip into any water you’ll need to take wet clothes off quickly and change to something dry and warm asap.  You’ll also want some footwear that can handle walking on the ice with stability. If you’re new to ice fishing, you’ll want to book a charter trip out with a guide to make sure you learn the ropes for safety.  Check out groups like Trophy Ice Fish in Sturgeon Bay, Beyond the Catch Guide Service in Bayfield, JJ’s Guide Service in Brussels, Great River Outdoors in Onalaska, Jack’s Charter Service in Milwaukee, Silver Strike Ice in Door County, MQT Adventures in Marquette, Cold Catch Ice Fishing in Brussels, Storm Hawk Sport Fishing Charters in Traverse City. Devils Lake in North Dakota has the claim to fame as the number one North American ice fishing destination.  More than 15,000 fishermen head out for a day on the ice annually, and it’s easy to see why. You can catch a generous amount of fish each day: 20 perch, 5 pike and walleye.  There are also more indoor, heated fish-cleaning stations (heated ice house rentals) per capita than any other area.  Plus, there’s lots of lodging resorts and motels in the area which often provide guided ice fishing experiences including everything you need to catch, unless you prefer the DIY approach.  If you snag a license (age 16+) you can even try your hand at darkhouse spearfishing! Bay de Noc in Michigan is located in Delta County, the longest freshwater shoreline of any county in the US and a top contender for ice fishing! Don’t believe us? The numbers don’t lie: folks report some serious trophy catches like a 32” walleye at 14lbs, and a 54” 43 pound sturgeon!  It’s best to do an early morning or last light trip, so you’ll definitely have something for both the night owls and the early risers to enjoy.  Check out places like Escanaba Municipal Marina, Gladstone Marina, Twin Springs, Fayette State Park, Nahma, and Portage Bay State Forest Campground just to name a few. Leech Lake in Minnesota is a wonderful place to fish year round, but in the winter it’s a great spot to snag some walleyes and perch in particular.  Bear Island and Pine Point are two areas of note for anglers to try if you’re heading out on your own.  Guided tours such as Leech Lake Fish House Rentals, Leech Lake Adventure Rentals, Whitney’s Leech Lake Guide Service, and Leech Lake Guide Service can ensure that every member of your party will have a great time, even if it’s their first time ice fishing. Red Lake in Minnesota has built a solid reputation for ice fishing, especially an incredible population of walleye.  It’s important to note some areas of the lake are not open to the public, so you’ll want to stick to clearly designated areas.  The shallow depths make it a very quick freeze, and seasons can open as early as October or November.  You can book an overnight accommodation for some night fishing, or rent an ice house for just the day if you’d prefer; some local resorts and lodgings will even charter you out to the ice on the lake if you need a ride.  Other fish in the area include Black Crappie, Goldeye, Rock Bass, Yellow Perch, and more. Sturgeon Bay in Wisconsin will make all your angler dreams come true thanks to the wide variety of fish all year round, and the real prize-winning sizes of catch!  Most commonly you’ll find whitefish, walleyes, northern pike, and yellow perch.  The ice fishing season here runs generally December through March, weather permitting; January and February you’ll find more permanent, heated ice houses on the frozen lake as well as special vehicle charters designed for deep snow travel.  Remember to still dress warmly even if you’ve rented a heated ice house for the day, because the ice plus winds make it feel much colder than you’d expect. Lake County Forest Preserves in Illinois offer ice fishing at Banana Lake in Wauconda, Independence Grove’s South Bat in Libertyville, and Sterling LAke at Van Patten Woods. It’s important that you check in with your local bait shops to make sure the ice conditions are safe in each area; if you’re given the okay from local experts, double check the ice when you arrive to be safe – it should be 4” thick minimum and be able to support your weight fully! You’ll find a variety of fish including walleye, northern pike, and panfish such as bluegill, crappie, and yellow perch. Other areas of note for ice fishing include: Lake Winnebago in Wisconsin Lake Gogebic in Michigan Upper Mississippi River, Wisconsin Dairyland Reservoir on Flambeau River, Wisconsin Boom Lake in Wisconsin Lake Mille Lacs in Minnesota Medicine Lake in Minnesota Lake of the Woods in Minnesota

We’re in the thick of winter and living for it!  On today’s blog, we’ll be sharing some great places to check out in Illinois to enjoy some cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing trails.  Whether it’s a trail past frozen waterfalls, or a glide through a snow covered meadow in the glistening sun, there’s so much to see and experience.  But that’s not all! Our neighbors just due North in Wisconsin have also some of the most beautiful winter scenery in the Midwest!  Enjoy a trek through some of the beautiful state parks and forests on a cross-country skiing excursion or some snowshoeing. A blast of winter fun, and all just a few hours drive away from our dealerships right here in Waukegan!  So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic and let’s hit the trails. more Illinois Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing Trails The Lake County Forest Preserves offer more than 200 miles of trails through forests, around charming ponds, and on the shores of some truly spectacular lakes and streams.  Specially designated trails located at Lakewood and Raven Glen are prime spots for cross-country skiing, as are marked trails along the Lakewood Winter Sports Area, Old School, and Des Plaines River Trail in select areas. Weather permitting, you may also enjoy the trails at Ryerson Conservation Area at Riverwoods. For an updated map of trails that are open, groomed, or not groomed, you can check out this map run by the forest preserves. The Morton Arboretum in Lisle rests upon 1,700 acres with 16 miles of marked trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing when snowfall permits.  Guests can bring their own cross-country skis or snowshoes, or enjoy one of the on-site rentals available for 2 hour increments with at least 4 inches of snowcover. Rock Cut State Park in Loves Park has trails which are groomed at least 1x per week, and has plenty of trail options for cross-country skiing in both the “strider” and “skater” styles.  You’ll find a mix of trails across flat areas and gentle rolling hills. This is one of our state’s largest state parks, featuring 50-acre Olson Lake, camping, horse and bike trails, and ice skating as well. Starved Rock State Park in Utica offers more than 10 miles of trails which wind through the forests and alongside stunning scenic overlooks along the Illinois River featuring cascading waterfalls.  You can spend the day in a winter wonderland and warm up at the Starved Rock Lodge Cafe at the end of your trek. Matthiessen State Park in Oglesby is a true hidden gem offering 6 miles of tree-lined skiing trails for a beautiful cross-country skiing or snowshoeing experience. It’s just 3 miles southwest of Starved Rock, and on some weekends also offers its own equipment rental kiosk. Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry offers more than 10 miles of gorgeous trails through scenic areas and forests with plenty of opportunities to enjoy some wildlife spotting as well. The Illinois & Michigan Canal in Channahon offers 61 miles of picturesque trails along the historic route of the canal from Channahon to LaSalle, and is not only top notch for snowmobiling but highly prized for cross-country skiers as well, weather conditions permitting. Bartlett Park Nature Center at JAmes Pate Philip State Park offers snowshoe rentals in morning through afternoon Monday through Saturday, but only opens to the public for snowshoe trails when there is at least 2 inches of snow cover on the ground. R ed Oak Nature Center in North Aurora offers snowshoeing and snowshoe rentals as long as there is at least 3 inches or more of snow on the ground. Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton offers 2 hour cross-country ski rental packages by reservation, perfect for a family fun day together! Trails are open provided there’s adequate snow coverage which you can check regularly here. The Sagawau Environmental Learning Center in Lemont offers daily cross-country skiing equipment rentals from 9AM to 2PM daily, but you must reserve your spots online and return equipment by 3:45PM daily. Waterfall Glen in Darien is another must-see trip for winter hiking with nearly 11 miles of trails to explore with varying degrees of difficulty during the winter months. Wisconsin Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Trails Kettle Moraine State Forest has more than 50 miles of hiking trails with both classic and skate-groomed cross country skiing trails available. The Lapham Peak Unit offers 10 miles of trails; Northern Unit offers 25 miles of trails; Pike Lake Unit offers 4 miles of trails; Southern Unit offers 24 miles of trails. Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo has 6 miles of ungroomed, multi-use trails for cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. Black River State Forest in central Wisconsin offers 68,000 acres of forest and woodlands featuring 20 miles of classic groomed and 14 miles of skate-groomed trails. Brule River State Forest boasts 18 miles of combined trails for classic and skate cross country skiing styles on the “Afterhours Ski Trail System” as well as 11 miles of ungroomed trails for those who seek a challenge. Flambeau River State Forest offers 16 miles of both classic and skate-groomed cross country trails, 6 miles of which include some ungroomed trails for more experienced skiers. Governor Dodge State Park features 5,000 acres of hills, bluffs, and deep cut valleys along with two sparkling lakes and a waterfall, and features 12.5 miles of trails for classic cross-country skiing enjoyment. Potawatomi State Park sprawls across 1,200 acres of gorgeous upland terrain with steep slopes, limestone cliffs and beautiful waterfront views. In the winter, it offers 9 miles of classic groomed and 8 miles of skate-groomed cross country trails

Looking to spice up Valentine’s Day with a little something extra?  Want to give that special someone a truly magical night out on the town? Well, if you seek a little extra fun, excitement, and unforgettable memories this Valentine’s Day, then you’ll love our Classic Guide to Unique Valentine’s Date Night Ideas. Best of all, these can even be gifted for future use so you can enjoy a traditional date night this Valentine’s and a bonus date night later! We know you don’t need an excuse to spoil your favorite person, but we thought we might provide at least a little inspiration.  Check out our latest suggestions for unique date nights. more Give that special someone a night they’ll never forget as you take to the skies together! Extreme Flight Simulation in Gurnee is open to the general public on select days, Thursday through Sunday.  Learn how to fly an airliner and what goes on inside a cockpit as you play pilot and enjoy a virtual experience flying anywhere in the world in all types of weather, without ever leaving Illinois! It’ll be a truly unique experience for a memorable date night. Get them tickets to a concert, theatre performance, comedy show, or live dance at one of the amazing venues across Lake County!  Check out the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan, Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest, the Improv Playhouse in Libertyville, James Lumber Center in Grayslake, Trickery Chicago, and more. Share your passion and cook a dinner for two, together!  Sign up for a cooking class or wine tasting at a local culinary event space such as Cook Cork and Fork in Palatine, The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville, Taste Buds Kitchen in Bannockburn, Vyanjan Vegetarian Cooking Classes in Buffalo Grove. Or give them a Dining in the Dark in Chicago coupon! Spend a day strolling through a museum and sharing in the sights of beautiful artwork, historic architecture, and fascinating historic relics.  Explore and discover new interests by visiting a museum or art installation that’s unexpected like the National Museum of Mexican Artwork, Museum of Illusions, or The Color Factory. Stop by the Field Museum for their “Chemistry in Nature: A Valentine’s Day Event”. Enjoy an evening of relaxing sounds and delicious bites at The Insect Asylum’s “Valentine’s Day Date Night with Sound Healing” event. Test your tastebuds with a tasting flight of wines from a local winery!  Live the life of luxury without having to pay for a plane ticket to Napa Valley. There are plenty of delightful and classy wineries right in our own backyard such as the City Winery in Chicago, Lynfred Winery in Roselle, Bronzeville Winery in Chicago, Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery in Chicago, Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove, Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant in Wheeling. Challenge each other and test your bond with an escape room experience at one of 60 to Escape’s Game Room experiences. With locations in Gurnee, Schaumburg, and Milwaukee, you can easily add an escape experience to your date night or day trip!  We also recommend checking out Fox in a Box Escape Room Chicago, The Great Escape Room Chicago, and the Escape Game Chicago for even more puzzle fun. Take a stroll through the city and stop for a coffee to warm up before heading out to couples ice skating at an outdoor rink: Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon, McKinley Ice Rink, Midway Plaisance Ice Rink, Warren Park Ice Rink, Mt. Greenwood Ice Rink, and Wentworth Ice Rink. Jump back into the past and have a blast with an Arcade themed date night!  Unleash your inner child and let loose with some fun, friendly competition and good ol’ fashioned gaming.  We recommend Underground Retrocade in West Dundee, The People’s Choice Family Fun Center, Bowlero Waukegan, LAUNCH Family Entertainment Center in Gurnee, Dave & Buster’s Vernon Hills, Round1 Bowling and Arcade, Timberjaxe Axe Throwing Lounge in Libertyville, Spartan Axe Throwing in Crystal Lake

We really, really love talking about all things automotive, but we also are big fans of the NFL and pro football. Today, we’re sharing our personal hosting hacks for making sure your Super Bowl party is a huge success.  You’ll be scoring points left and right with guests, and it's sure to culminate in a big victory as memorable as the game itself!  So what are you waiting for? Spruce up your hosting skills with our helpful tips on today’s blog. more Classic’s Easy Party Hosting Tips Tip: Invite our guests to bring their fave beverages to create a pot-luck party drinks bar!! Invite your guests to contribute to the game day spirit by bringing a fun beverage and mixer for a community stocked drink station!  Whether they enjoy soda, iced tea, a cocktail or beer, invite them to bring their personal favorites to help stock the party bar.  Everyone will get to sip on something they like and share with friends, and help contribute, but there won’t be any hassle of sending home the right container or dish at the end of the night. Of course, you can also stock up on the basic sodas and some water, too. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages both work great for this communal station! Tip: Have guests arrive a little bit before the game and play some quick party games! Games are a great way to de-stress if you’re nervous about your favorite team winning the big game, and a fun way for party guests to get to know one another and let loose. It’s also a great way to engage any kids at your party and tire them out before the big game starts! We recommend easy to play party games such as Pictionary, Scattergories, Spot-It, Sushi Go, etc. Tip: Keep things simple and easy with serve-yourself boards and an appetizer table. Serving things like charcuterie, guacamole boards, chili bowls with DIY toppings, can add a lot of fun and flexibility so guests can select only what they like.  You can even offer your guests further customization options, set out little bowls of toppings or mix-ins next to your large serving boards and make sure multiple scoops, spoons, and dip spreaders are available for easy access. Place the boards in the center of the table so that guests can reach them on both sides of the table to avoid traffic jams. Tip: Set up your food station out of TV and screen sightlines. It’s no secret that there are plenty of guests who attend superbowl parties for the incredible snacks, and we love that energy!  But for those who are interested in the game itself, snackers who get in the way of spectating can be very frustrating.  Set up a snack-station a little off to the side so that guests can help themselves while keeping “the end zone open” so to speak. Tip: Set up a utensils and to-go box station on a separate table. Save your energy for socializing by making sure the cups, plates, utensils, napkins, paper towels, and boxes for leftovers are laid out in an accessible manner on their own table. Keep all sides of the table open for easy access so guests can grab what they need without blocking the flow of traffic! Use heavy duty paper plates to avoid a large cleanup after. Tired of the same ol’ same ol’ grilled meats and chips and dips? Spice things up with these new recipes and impress your guests! Plum Street Collective’s Guacamole Snack Board Must-Try No-Cook Tailgating Recipes by Mighty Mrs DIY Sandwich Charcuterie Board 11 Best Tailgate Grill Recipes Creamy Avocado Board Charcuterie Board Pizza Vegan Pizza Snack Board Healthy Game Day Recipes that Actually Taste Good BLT Salad Bite Apps Pullapart Dogs in a Blanket Ring Mary Alice’s Hoagie Dip Lettuce Wrap Wonton Cups Venezuelan Empanadas Devon’s Award-Winning Chili Dessert Charcuterie Board Butterscotch Peanut Butter Bars Fondue Dessert Charcuterie Board

We’re back with another fun community calendar of events, with a special spotlight on the annual Chicago Auto Show, and some valentine’s day date ideas! more About the Auto Show! February is here and our adrenaline is pumping and our hearts are racing with excitement, because the 117th Chicago Auto Show is just around the corner!  From February 8th through February 17th, you can stop by McCormick Place Convention Center to experience the best, brightest, and most spectacular new advancements in the automotive industry! You’ll find everything from domestic and import designs to daily drivers to sports cars to experimental and concept cars and more!  You’ll have a chance to get an up-close look at antique and collector vehicles, special events and panels with guests, shop for automotive accessories, view the unique exhibits, take a peek at project cars, and so much more fun in store. More than 1,000 vehicles will be on hand for your enjoyment from 19 manufacturers! Admission, Hours, and Other Pertinent Information: This year’s event runs February 8th through February 17th at McCormick Place which is 2301 S. King Drive in Chicago. Hours of operations are 10 to 9 on February 8th and February 10th through 16th. February 9th hours are 10AM to 6PM, and February 17th from 10AM to 8PM. We recommend you purchase your tickets in advance, but tickets will be available at the door.  Tickets for the auto show are available online (priced by age) and children under 3 are free with accompanying paid adult admission.  Group and school discounts are available! For your safety, please be aware that all bags are subject to search by security, and attendees will be selected at random; clear tote bags and clutch purses or smaller will be permitted.  Diaper bags and strollers are permitted for those with infants in attendance. Scooter and Wheelchair daily rentals are available for your mobility and accessibility needs.  Other mobility devices are allowed, but may be checked by event management or security personnel. Opening day events on the 8th will run from 10AM to 9PM, with the official ribbon cutting starting at 9:30 AM Other special attractions for the opening weekend  include the Chicago Drives Electric Test Track and EV Education Center event; Wheel of Fortune Auditions; outdoor test drives, Camp Jeep and Ford Built Wild Test Tracks, and the Chrysler Stow n Go Challenge event. This year’s Toyota Miles Per Hour Run will take place on February 9th; this is a very unique opportunity for competitors to run at their own personal best pace and time on a track that weaves in and out of the showrooms and venue! February 11th is First Responders/Military Appreciation Day. February 12th is Automotive Career Day.  The Teen Innovation Summit is hosting a “Driving Future Leaders” career discovery event in partnership with Toyota and Toyota Lexus Minority Owners Dealership Association.  There will be lectures, student testimonials, a women in automotive panel, a Q&A discussion, and students will also have an opportunity to have lunch and explore the floor and speak with exhibitors. On February 12th, 13th and 14th, attendees who donate 3+ cans of food will receive coupons for $5 off a full adult admission for the CAS Food Drive Discount event; collected food will benefit A Safe Haven Foundation. February 14th from 5PM to 8PM, adults can grab a combo ticket to participate in the Chicago Friday Night Flights event.  This festival-like event offers an opportunity to sample craft beer flights from local breweries. Purchase your show ticket/beverage pass combo in advance to save on the price of admission. February 17th is Family Day from 10AM to 8PM in the South Hall Events Area. Check the CAS website for more information as we get closer to the date. Your Local Community Calendar of Events for Lake County Illinois Area Wrap your loved ones in a handmade hug after you make and take this beautiful chunky knit blanket at Beer Bazaar’s Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop in Grayslake. The class starts February 5th for $65 or $85. February 5th head over to the Heller Nature Center in Highland Park for “Stories in the Woods at Heller Center” - Pre registration is required and attendees 6mos to 6yr are welcome with an adult, admission is $6. The Joyful Gourmet is hosting a very fun Cooking with Bourbon Class on February 6th from 6PM to 9PM in Libertyville. You, Me and Four Roses event for Valentine’s Day is happening at 129 Center Cut in Grayslake on February 6th starting at 7PM. Buffalo Creek Brewing is hosting Love on Tap in Long Grove on Friday February 7th from 5PM to 9PM, including a food truck and full bar with small shop vendors! The Couple’s Paint Along at Fox Lake Park and Rec Department is taking place on February 7th in Fox Lake, with bite sized snacks and coffee or hot cocoa included. Valentine’s Dessert Boards at the Joyful Gourmet is happening on February 7th from 10AM to Noon in Libertyville! Cupid’s Court Event and Craft Show is taking place February 8th at the Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills. Enjoy the Valentine’s Chocolate workshop at Ma and Pa’s Candy in Long Grove on Sunday February 9th. The February Felting class at Rosewood Beach is happening on February 9th in Highland Park at the Rosewood Beach & Interpretive Center. The Antioch Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Shining Abilities Market Multi-Chamber Valentine Mixer event on February 11th from 5PM to 7PM. The Galentine’s Day High Mar-Tea-Ni event is happening a t Side Lot in Wauconda on Thursday February 13th. Bring the whole crew to the Family Valentine’s day Party at Timothy O’Toole’s in Libertyville from February 14th from 6PM to 8PM. Have a Skate with the Date at the Top Shelf Ice Arena and Bar & Grill in Gurnee on February 14th.

Here at Classic we love to help find our patrons fascinating and fun places to visit, especially with a heavy emphasis on history and art museums! For today’s blog, we’re sharing some wonderful destinations that are the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Explore the culture, history, artwork, and incredible contributions of inventors, engineers, and pioneers at these Midwest Black History Museums. more DuSable Black History Museum in Chicago is the first non-profit museum dedicated to the collections, documentation, preservation and study of Africans and African American history and culture. More than 100,000 visitors grace its halls annually, exploring a multitude of both permanent and rotating collections.  Current exhibitions include “The Many Colors of Us” dedicated to children’s exploration and understanding of racial and ethnic diversity through play; “The Art of Our Storytellers” featuring selections from the Johnson Publishing Company; “Equiano.Stories” a feature film project by the museum along with Stelo Stories Studio; “Freedom: Origin and Journey” highlighting key periods throughout history in the African American experience; “The Harold Washington Story” about the first African American Mayor of Chicago in 1983; “Troubled Waters: Chicago 1919 Race Riots” and the aftermath of the violence; “Fighting Racism in the Trenches” featuring the story of Kathryn Magnolia Johnson; “Clearing a Path for Democracy” featuring an exhibit about the citizen soldiers of the Illinois Fighting 8th. The Haitian American Museum of Chicago is dedicated to highlighting the rich culture and history of Haiti and how Haitian Americans contributed to the overall multicultural communities of Chicago.  The Museum's current exhibit is “A.S.E. (Art Supreme Expression)” is a collaborative effort to highlight life and art in Haiti through freedom of creative expression. Past exhibits have included community art walks, “Children of Haiti” exhibit by Timoun Ayiti, and more. The museum also has an extensive catalogue of audio projects narrating Haitian history, art, and culture as well as an extensive library of books. Bronzeville Children’s Museum in Chicago is the world’s first and currently only children’s museum dedicated to African American history, and perfect for children aged 3 through 9.  The exhibits and activities at the museum are designed to engage children in appropriate exploration of culture, history, and social relationships through play.  Kids will have a chance to explore history and artwork and key points in African American history through hands-on play and workshops such as Journey to STEAM, Tour of  Bronzeville Landmarks, You Are What You Eat, and African American Inventors Changing Lives, and many more! Freetown Village in Indianapolis is a fully immersive and interactive experience representing historic African American settlements across Indiana in the post-Civil War era.  Visitors can interact with the cast and crew and learn about the experience of Black Americans in the 1870s, the era when former slaves gained their freedom and independence.  Visitors will be able to explore historic artifacts and reproductions, art and documentary exhibits, and an extensive collection of preserved artifacts from the era. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati opened its doors in 2004 and has been paying tribute to the triumphs, heartbreaks, and heroes involved in the Underground Railroad movement. Visitors will be able to explore the history through an immersive and socially conscious exhibit following the journey of slaves from the South and across the Ohio River to the North.  Permanent exhibits include “Brothers of the Borderland” an immersive media experience showcasing John Parker and Rev. John Rankin’s work in helping others flee slavery; “Invisible: Slavery Today” chronicling the tragic reality of modern trafficking and slavery; “From Slavery to Freedom” which documents 3 centuries of slavery from the early Americas through to the Civil War era; and many more. National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center in Wilberforce hosts exhibits and special programming educating visitors about both Ohio and the nation’s African American art, culture, social movements, and history. The facility showcases one of the country’s largest collections of African American artifacts and artwork.  You can check out exhibits such as “African Americans Fighting for Double Victory” chronicling the role of Black Americans in WWII or "Rhythm of Revolution: The Transformative Power of Black Art 1619 to Present” featuring art and works from 5 centuries of Black artists, and more! America’s Black Holocaust Museum in Milwaukee is simultaneously a memorial and historical documentary museum, featuring numerous galleries and exhibitions commemorating the Black Holocaust from pre-captivity in Africa to the present day.  The museum originally had a brick and mortar location from 1988 through 2008 opened by Dr. James Cameron, but was reestablished through a community  grassroots effort and reopened again in February of 2022. The Museum also existed in a virtual capacity from 2012 and still operates today, where you can view exhibits online through breaking news blogs, special lectures and articles, and online documentary exhibit collections. Other notable venues to explore include: African American Museum of Southern Illinois in Carbondale Black Archives Museum Brown V Board of Education National Historic Park in Topeka Motown Museum in Detroit Charles H Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City American Jazz Museum in Kansas City Evansville African American Museum in Evansville

Podcasts and playlists are great and all, but have you ever felt the incredible power of a great audiobook?  Today on the blog, we’re sharing our picks for some of the top recent releases you simply must listen to on your next commute or road trip. From magical realism to fantasy, to true crime mysteries and biographical fiction, we’ve got a little something to suit everyone’s tastes.  While away the hours on the highway in the company of good friends and even greater storytelling! more The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store By James McBride Hailed as one of the best new books of 2024, this historical fiction novel highlights the story of Black and Jewish residents of the Chicken Hill area of Pottstown PA in the 20s and 30s.  The perfect blend of historical fiction and literary fiction with a dash of mystery, you’ll be transported back in time with the turn of each page. The Salt Path By Raynor Winn With nearly a half million copies sold worldwide, this poignant piece of travel writing will draw you in and take you along for the journey.  After Raynor Winn’s husband falls terminally ill, the couple decides to make a life-changing decision of unforgettable proportions: walking 630 miles together along the South wEst Coast Path from Somerset to Dorset, through Devon and Cornwall.  The couple embarks on this journey of self discovery, love and loss, and the remarkable resilience of people and what it means to be “home”. Good Dirt By Charmaine Wilkerson This novel is an emotional, multi-generational historical fiction novel about the bonds of family and how our past shapes our present, through this tale of love and loss. Follow Ebby Freeman as she tries to make sense of a childhood tragedy and unfolds pieces of her family’s history and her own future.  You’re in for a real treat with this captivating novel from the NYT Bestselling author of Black Cake! The House in the Cerulean Sea By TJ Klune Be transported away from reality and into a quirky fantasy world with this magical tale of Linus Baker, an employee of the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, and Arthur Parnassus, master of the orphanage for magical children.  We bet you’ll fall in love just like we did as the characters unfold a mystery and take you on a wonderful journey of friendship, love, humor, and wit.  The perfect blend of science fiction meets paranormal fantasy! Before I Let Go By Kennedy Ryan A contemporary romance centered around hope, healing, and personal discovery.  When Yasmen and Josiah’s marriage falls to pieces, Yasmen is left reeling but focuses on healing through joy. Little by little as she and Josiah work together to navigate coparenting, a spark ignites. Will they find a new beginning or are some things better left as they were? The Art Thief By Michael Finkel True Crime and Art history merge together in this fascinating narrative chronicling the world’s most prolific art thief, Stephane Breitweiser.  After successfully completing more than 200 heists all across Europe in less than a decade, Breitweiser and his paramour amassed a collection of more than 300 commandeered works.  Follow along through the mayhem and mishaps that culminated in their undoing and apprehension in this scintillating tale of true crime, love, and passion. Jackal By Erin E. Adams Fans of supernatural horror and the paranormal will lose themselves in the mysteries of this emotional and dark suspense novel.  When Liz returns home to her former town of Johnstown, PA for her best friend Caroline’s wedding, things take a turn for the worst. Caroline has disappeared and the only clue left behind is a blood stained piece of white fabric.  As terrifying memories of the past are stirred, Liz sets out to uncover the town’s darkest secrets and hopefully find the truth about what may really have happened to her friend and the other missing girls before her. The Personal Librarian By Mariie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray This thought-provoking and fascinating biographical novel highlights the secrets and legacy of J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian, Belle da Costa Greene.  Hired to help curate an immense collection of rare manuscripts, books, and fine art for the Pierpont Morgan Library, Belle makes her way into the ranks of New York Cities high society by way of the art and literary world.  The true history of this incredibly strong, dedicated woman and her extraordinary legacy will leave a lasting impression on you from the first til the very last word.

It’s Snowmobile Safety Awareness Month!  Today we’re going to share with you eight exciting destinations for a weekend snowmobile getaway.  Plus, we’re covering some of the basics of snowmobile safety as a refresher course for the season. Remember, even if you’re prepared as best you are able, accidents can still happen, so do your best to stay alert and stay safe, and we wish many happy trails to you all! more The Basics of Snowmobile Safety: Never ride alone.  There’s safety in numbers, and two or more people will keep you safest while snowmobiling. Know the risks and be prepared for anything. Stay on the trails and don’t go off-map. Maintain a safe speed to minimize odds of losing control of the vehicle, injury to passengers, or other catastrophic accident. Avoid driving on lakes, rivers, and other frozen bodies of water; these may appear to be solid, but weather can change very, very quickly and once you fall in things can get dangerous very fast. Make sure everyone has safety gear such as a compass and map, waterproof matches and flare/candles, crank flashlight and/or headlamp and/or flashlight with spare batteries, extra ignition key, a tow strap, first aid kit, survival kit, etc.  Consider two-way radios and/or satellite phones if typical cell tower reception is low. Wear a safety helmet and fully protective waterproof clothing with reflective strips, full eye protection, and solid boots. Maintain your calm and stay focused. Keep your eyes peeled for potential hazards on the trail including other snowmobiles, people, and animals as well as weather and natural elements.  Keep your emotions regulated to avoid road rage and distracted driving. No one under the age of 16 should be allowed to drive, and children younger than 6 should not be a passenger. Do not take on more passengers than your vehicle is designed for; if it is a solo riding snowmobile, do not add a second person, and if designed for dual riders do not take on more than that. Use extreme caution if/when towing passengers on sleds, tubes, tires, or other ride-on items. Don’t drink/use and ride; much like getting behind the wheel of a car while drunk or high, snowmobiling while intoxicated is a no go. Outstanding Snowmobile Trails in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin Des Plaines River Trail in Wadsworth features 8 miles of trails that are open to riders from December 10th through March 31st. Check the weather reports before you head out, as a 4in snow base is required before riders will be permitted to use the snowmobiles. Grant Woods in Ingleside offers 1,226 acres with 6 miles of gravel trail perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and 4.5 miles of trails for the snowmobile enthusiast making this a perfect destination for day-trips!  Plus, it’s just a hop skip and a jump from our Waukegan dealerships, making it the top choice for some fairly local snow day fun. Argyle Lake State Park in Colchester Illinois is just waiting for you to come and explore the grounds. You can enjoy a wide variety of wintertime activities such as ice skating, ice-fishing, snowshoeing, sledding, and of course: snowmobiling! With over 1,700 acres of property to explore such as 5 miles of foot trails through virgin wooded forests, a 93-acre lake, and plenty of year round options for camping and outdoor exploration. Wolf Creek State Park offers 7 different hiking trails as well as a whopping 16.5 mile snowmobile trail and 15 mile equestrian trail. Your journeys will take you through impeccably maintained forest and parklands, where an abundance of wildlife come out to say hello; deer, rabbits, wild turkeys, pheasant, and multiple species of songbird are common sites. Weiniberg-King State Park features 760 huntable acres of land with 30 miles of trails through the preserve for both equestrian use and snowmobiling, as well as cross-country skiing and winter hikes.  Visitors report well-maintained trails with no shortage of exquisite scenery, glistening snowy landscapes, and several trail options for both beginner and experienced snowmobilers.  Trail usage may be limited depending on snow conditions so be sure to check in advance. The shores of Lake Gogebic in Michigan are prime real estate for snowmobiling, and with an annual average snowfall of 200 inches, it’s easy to see why!  The trails are well groomed, packed down, and smooth for a clear ride.  Trails are groomed at least once a day, and you can check which trails are ready to go with the area’s Groomer Tracker App.  Trails are well-marked with mileage signs and local area businesses are well-stocked with trail maps for a nominal fee.  The nearby Porcupine Mountains border along Lake Superior, with visitors highly recommending a snowmobile trek up to “Lake of the Clouds” for some unparalleled scenery and views.  Plus, you can reach some absolutely spectacular waterfalls by snowmobile, making it a truly memorable ride. Gaylord, Michigan is a snowmobile enthusiast's dream, hailed as one of teh greatest snowmobiling destinations in the whole state.  With more than 500 miles winding through 8 counties, you’ll never run out of adventure and excitement. Download a copy of the Michigan DNR Snowmobile Trails and plan out your route. Locals highly recommend checking out the North Central Trail, which offers 62-miles of multiuse trailways connecting 4 different areas: Gaylord, Indian River, Cheboygan, and Mackinaw City; snowmobiles are allowed on the trails from December 1st through March 31st.  The North Branch Trail also offers some winding trails in and out of snow-capped trees deep in the forests of Jordan Valley. The area also has plentiful options for lodging including cozy cottages, family resorts, log cabins, and cozy motels. Eagle River in Wisconsin is known as the Snowmobile Capital of the World, with record snowfall levels and host to the Amsoil World Championship Snowmobile Derby and the Eagle River “500”, 500+ miles of well-groomed trails.  Over the last 10 years, the area has made quite the name for itself when it comes to exhilarating outdoor activities. You’ll find an impressive array of trails to choose from with truly breathtaking views, picture perfect mountain trails, and plenty of thrills as you wind in and out of forests and lakes.  Many of the trails also pass through business areas and service centers so you can pop-in for a break to warm up, refuel, and grab something to eat in between rides.  There are also numerous rental facilities along the way to help you with any equipment.  It’s recommended to download both the Groomer Tracking Systems App and the Vilas County Map It Trail App for up to date open trails and safe travels.