Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park

Forget the chill, and experience Olympic-style thrills with a visit to Michigan’s Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park — one of only four facilities of its kind in the United States. Located in Muskegon State Park, along the shores of Lake Michigan, this adventure center lures people out of hibernation and into a winter wonderland packed with activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, hockey and, of course, luge.

Race down the 850-foot track while reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Three-time Olympian Frank Masley designed the track, which uses natural ice instead of refrigeration. Although shorter in length than the Olympic tracks in Lake Placid and Salt Lake City, this luge is well-suited for beginners. Equipment and training are provided to learn how to maneuver and zip through the course’s six curves.

Those not interested in trying the luge can merely visit as a spectator or experience the beauty of Muskegon State Park on skis. Visitors can cross-country ski through forests and over dunes on one of the many trails by day or zip through the lighted paths at night. (The park also offers adaptive rentals for those with lower-body mobility issues.) Snowshoes and skate rentals also allow for hours of hiking or gliding over the western Michigan ice and snow. Tall pines envelop several natural ice areas with designated rinks for various interests, whether it’s hockey or family skating.

Nightfall doesn’t stop the fun, either. The luge track is lit for evening runs, and there is a quarter-mile illuminated figure-eight loop through the white pines. Then, it’s time to cozy up at the bonfire garden and listen to the crackling fire while sipping a hot chocolate with family and friends. 462 N. Scenic Dr., Muskegon, Michigan 49445, 877/879-5843, msports.org