Everything You Need for a Winter Getaway in Traverse City, Michigan
Equip yourself to explore scenic lake overlooks, shred the slopes, and stay fueled!
Pure Michigan they call it! For your endeavors in Traverse City, I have compiled my list of recommended gear to have to make your trip as enjoyable as possible while playing outside in the snow. After all, having the right gear makes all the difference!
HydroFlask - 20 oz Coffee Flask
This bad boy will be sure to keep you fueled for your adventures around town, from morning to night. With the unique TempShield double wall vacuum insulation, that Hydro Flask offers in all their products, you’ll be sure to have your drink of choice hot for up to 12 hours. This is a must-have in my everyday life and an essential for the cold winter days!
Kinco - Lined Heavy Duty Premium Grain & Suede Pigskin Mitt with Knit Wrist
At a price you can’t ignore, these mitts are sure to keep your hands warm! Once coated with the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather these things are bulletproof and keep your hands dry.
Carhartt - Acrylic Watch Hat
A Carhartt hat is a must-have for Michigan winters. This simple and affordable hat is soft to the touch, minimalistic, stylish and stretchy to fit anyone. The thick acrylic yarn makes the hat especially warm and ideal for your midwest winter adventures!
Sorel Women's Winter Carnival Boot
Northern Michigan is known for it’s cold snowy winters, that’s why you need a companion like this on your side. The outside rubber sole of the winter carnival is sure to keep your feet dry, no matter the length of time. The upper outside part of the boot is coated in waterproof nylon as well and with the height of the boot it aids in trenching through various snowpacks. Not to mention the boot has plenty of tread, so you won’t be sliding around on the icy shores of Lake Michigan. It’s the classic winter boot, and it’s stood the test of time. Don’t leave your house without it.
Fits Ultralight Ski Socks
There is nothing worse than cold feet, and these I assure you will stand up to any cold weather test you throw at them. Whether you’re going out for an afternoon hike or hitting the slopes. Fits has all the variations to fit your adventure (#punny). Made with merino wool, these socks are some of the warmest on the market, without being bulky. Not to mention they have some fun designs! With the deep heel pocket your assured that your socks won’t be sliding off and their dynamic toe cups contours to the shape of your toes making for the most comfy fit.
TOPO Designs - Puffer Hoodie
Stylish, sustainable and warm, the puffer hoodie makes a perfect addition to your winter wardrobe. The synthetic fill is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. I can attest this layer as the perfect mid layer to any winter adventure. The hoodie is also is highly compressible and can be scrunched down to fit in any pack so that you never go cold!
Kahtoola - MICROspikes
The shores of Lake Michigan are inviting and appealing, but if you’re looking to go iceberg hopping or simply for a stroll, you’ll surely want to keep your grip. This is a piece of gear you will most definitely need. The micro spikes come in all shapes and sizes for any winter footwear you may have: trail shoe, running shoe, hiking boot or insulated boot. The spikes also come with a neat little tote bag, so you’ll be sure to keep track of them!
Scott LCG Compact Throw Back Google
Ahh, what can I say - these may be one of my favorite pieces of winter gear! The google features a stylish look that's minimal and effective. They also come with a pair of low light and high light lenses so you’re prepared for any situation. Changing the lenses is a breeze and there is no tool required for adjusting the vents!
TOPO Designs - Mountain Fleece Pullover
What can I say, who doesn't love a good fleece. The mountain fleece - available for both men and women from TOPO Designs, may be the softest thing you wear all winter, not to mention it plays off the classic look all of us outdoorsy people fell in love with. It provides a tailored fit, keeping you warm and snug. The bright colors they offer will also keep you standing out from the bright white snow. It may be my favorite piece of TOPO clothing that I own! The elbow patches are reinforced to assure this item will stand the test of time.
Rossignol Pure Elite 120 Boots
When traveling I always bring my ski boots, they are the one thing I need to have fit well. Whereas you can always pick up a pair of skis, the same thing cannot be said for boots. The OptiSensor liners that come with the Pure Elite 120 are lined with merino wool so you’re sure to stay warm. You’ll also be able to get these boots adjusted to fit just the way you want them, making them good for any type of skier!
TOPO Designs - Climbing Pant
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, this is the pant you need! The pant available for both men and women was designed to climb in which essentially means it was designed to move in. Being comfortable and durable, you can take on all your winter adventures in one pant. No need for sweatpants or something more flexible. Take these with you out on your bike ride, ski session or hike!
Rossignol Sassy 7 Skis
I ski these everywhere everyday and I love them! Designed to target beginner to intermediate skiers, these skis are welcoming to every condition as well. They're a true all-mountain ski. They provide enough stiffness that you can get aggressive, while still being playful when you want to feel loose. The price point brings them in at a competitive rate as well.
TOPO Designs - Klettersack
This simple, well-designed pack accomplishes all things a backpack needs to. It’s the perfect size to pack your things for a weekend getaway or a day's worth of adventures. The pack has water bottle sleeves on the outside and a laptop sleeve on the inside and it's designed to handle any type of environment!
Shorts Brewing Company - Soft Parade
Now if you’re in the area, you may as well take the time to scoot yourself up to Bellaire to grab a beer at Short’s Brewing Company. They are known for being a very successful experimental microbrewery in Northern Michigan. You’re sure to find something you love, something you hate, and something that surprises you. Their soft parade is a summer classic but sold year round. With hints or berries and rye, this beer is a favorite among many!
Kastle - MX 84
Though the ski runs may not be the longest in Michigan, they are groomed and a whole lot of fun! If you’re looking for the ULTIMATE groomer ski that’s made to go fast there is no better option on the market. Kastle, a company out of Austria, has the science dialed in to make you feel like the best groomer skier around! The price point comes in a little high, but if you want the best of the best, you get what you pay for.
Mammoth Distillery - Whiskey
Don’t we all love a good libation. When in the Traverse City area, you’ll surely want to stop by this distilleries tasting room and pick up a bottle of one of their crafted blends! They also offer bourbon blendings if you’re in the mood to craft your own. This whiskey has flavor profiles that reflect beeswax and honey, a delicious taste indeed. Plus it’s important to support local!
Blowing Bubbles
They’re not just for kids! Yes, I am serious. On one of our hikes, we found ourselves in the presence of a couple that was blowing bubbles at a scenic overlook. They claimed it kept the spirit of adventure alive. Sometimes it’s the simple acts of awakening your inner child!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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