[I got this idea during a lovely all day ski tour last weekend on the Shinglemill Pathway a half hour north of Gaylord.]
The first was feeling just how wonderful it was out there in the snowy woods along the Pigeon river. There are 3 state campgrounds along this trail system. They all seemed to be semi-plowed. And not a single camper in them.
(I now pause for effect.)
In the summer these campgrounds would be absolutely full of people. There would be barking dogs and generators roaring. And screaming drunks. And fireworks. The river would be crowded with canoes and fishermen. The trails would be crowded.
…So let us now return to our pristine ski tour. Hey, you could camp in the winter just as easy as in the summer. You’d only need a thicker sleeping bag and more clothes. Your campfire would do more good. You just couldn’t go swimming. Instead of biking or hiking, you go shoeing or skiing. Not much difference. Canoeing is equally perfect both times. Actually, it’s better in the winter: no bugs, no sweat. The water is crystalline and feels warm. Air is crisp and clear. The fishing is supposed to be better. You can even go hunting. Man, I’m gonna switch seasons!
