Winter has arrived in full force across the Keweenaw Peninsula over the past few weeks, but at Michigan Tech, the snow and cold aren’t something to hide from: they’re something to embrace. With snow falling and temperatures dropping, the community is encouraging students and locals to step outside and enjoy everything the season has to offer.
Zach Wilk, a Tech student and lover of winter sports, has one piece of advice for anyone looking to get through the season, “stay active and get outside. Just because it’s cold and snowy doesn’t mean you’ve gotta stay indoors 24/7. We’ve got practically every winter sport you can think of up here, so there’s really something for everyone!” For Wilk, winter isn’t something to be disappointed about but an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in a way that only the Keweenaw can provide.
The campus and surrounding area offer a winter wonderland building up toWinter Carnival, with something for everyone to be a part of. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just love a good snowshoe hike, Tech has it all, with miles of Nordic skiing trails, downhill slopes for snowboarding, and a variety of snowshoe paths winding through the woods.
For those who prefer to fish, the nearby frozen lakes offer the perfect spot to drill a hole and enjoy some quiet time on the ice. “It’s hard to stay indoors when there’s so much to do out here,” said Sarah, a local volunteer. Tech also hosts regular winter events such as snow sculpting contests, ice climbing trips, and weekend ski outings, so there’s always a chance to meet up with friends or make new ones. And for those who just want to relax, there’s nothing like spending time outdoors, surrounded by snow-covered trees and crisp air.
At MTU, winter isn’t something to get through; it’s something to embrace. Surviving doesn’t mean dealing with it; we can utilize the situation for fun, too. Students can appreciate the outdoors and stay warm at the same time. So, grab your gear, step outside, and head out there to explore something new.
