Winter Rafting - A New Way to Experience Michigan

Rafters enjoy a winter excursion down the Jordan River aboard the big blue rafts of Jordan Valley Outfitters, East Jordan, Mich.

from MLive.com, "Winter rafting in northern Michigan showcases season's beauty," by Andrea Tamboer, Nov 9

Think of the quiet of the winter woods. Add a Wild & Scenic River, an outfitter, and you are all set for a new experience in northern Michigan.

Jordan River Outfitters of East Jordan, and Big Bear Adventures in Indian River are two Lower Peninsula firms that offer winter rafting trips. More and more people are looking for an alternative to skiing and snowshoeing. Michigan waterways provide the medium. Deep snow cover is not required... a perfect activity for those not-so-snow-covered weekends.

About two hours is considered a good length for a safe trip. Dressing warmly is imperative, but you can be assured of staying dry. Jordan River Outfitters even provides snowshoes for a short hike midway through the trip, followed by hot drinks and snacks.

"The river is ever-changing in the winter," Jordan Outfitter's owner said. "A shelf of ice will develop and narrow the rapids. The next week, it's gone, and the current is more gentle."

Winter wildlife may be seen nearby; the rafts pass silently. Consider this novel way to enjoy a Michigan winter.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Winter Float Trip on the Jordan River

The following is an excerpt from a story which we believe is worthy of reading, but would lose too much of its charm if it were re-written for presentation on this blog. Please link through for the rest of the story, but hurry back! ... Editor

by Mike Terrell

"After much chatting, laughter and lots of awed exclamations at the start of our trip down the Jordan River via a raft, our group became quiet and quickly understood the beauty of a winter float trip.

The silence was deep and golden as snow softly filtered down through the overhanging branches of towering cedar along the river. Snow covered the banks and helped illuminate the darkly, wooded shoreline. The only sound, as we floated along on the swift current, was the gurgle of rushing water ... "

finish the story at the Traverse City Record-Eagle - see FAIR USE notice.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch