Missing your favorite warm-weather activities? Although we still have two more months of winter left, you can still enjoy bike riding, stargazing and go karting before spring hits! Just check out these winter-friendly options in Flint and Genesee.
FATBIKING
Is your mountain bike in hibernation for the winter? Consider getting a fatbike, an off-road bicycle named for its oversized tires. According to Steve Bender, manager of Assenmacher’s Cycling Center in Flint, “the bike was originally designed to be ridden in deep snow, but has bled over into other types of bicycling. It’s become a four-season bicycle, and people are riding them just about everywhere these days.”
In Genesee County, for instance, you might spot cyclists biking the same trails they would in warmer months, including the Flint River Trail and Bicentennial Park Trail in Grand Blanc.
While the sensation of fat biking feels a bit different — Bender describes it as though you’re floating over the snow — the preparation is very similar. Cyclists should bring along some form of hydration and remember to dress in layers. You might start off feeling cool, but don't expect to stay that way!
STARGAZING
If it’s too chilly to search for the Big Dipper outside, head over to Longway Planetarium in Flint. Founded in 1958 and the largest in Michigan, the planetarium underwent renovations last year and reopened last May with a new dome and state-of-the-art projection system.
The facility is playing seven shows, including “Skies Over Michigan,” which teaches visitors about the rotation of the Earth, how to find the North Star and which constellations are visible in the current night sky.
Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and youth (ages 2-11) and free for children under 2. For more info, call 810-237-3400 or visit www.sloanlongway.org/Longway-Planetarium.
GO KARTING
Did you know that Clio is home to Michigan's largest indoor kart track? Visitors to Extreme Indoor Kart Racing usually lap the 1/4-mile track about 8 to 10 times in a given race. Adults reach speeds of up to 40 mph, and youth (ages 8-15) drive karts with just slightly less horsepower, usually reaching speeds of up to 15 mph.
Pricing starts at $14 for members and $16 for the general public.
For more info, call 810-687-3546 or visit www.eikr.net.
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