• Harris Nature Center 1/18/19

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The first Moonlight Ski and Shoe event of the season was held at Harris Nature Center off Van Atta Road in Meridian Township on the evening of Saturday the 19th.

That afternoon central Michigan received about 5 inches of much needed snow that gave the Harris Nature Center just enough depth to go ahead with the event.

Not quite enough snow fell for snow-shoeing but the turnout of cross country skiers was enough to keep Allison Goodman and company busy with check-ins and rentals.

Allison and the other employees enjoy getting residents outside and active during the dead of winter.

"We have small skis for toddlers and then go all the way up to adult. On the trails you can go a half mile, three miles, take the loop as many times as you'd like. It's just fun for people to be able to get outside in Michigan in the winter...It's nice to be able to enjoy the snow instead of staying away from it."

Aside from cold fresh air and a healthy dose of cardio, participants may get a glimpse of some rare wildlife.

Harris Nature Center is home to some Barred Owls which mate in the middle of winter and are active at night.

Trees with no leaves give a better line of site in the forest during the winter for skiers and snow-shoer's.

Ski or snowshoe rental also includes a headlamp which are available at the nature center.

Calling ahead to reserve equipment & a participation time is required.

The fun costs $10/person with all rental equipment provided, $3/person with your own equipment, and $2/additional headlamp.

The Nature Center will hold the event again on the 9th and 23rd of February.