Celebrating winter!

This little arctic blast may take you off two wheels for a few days, but it definitely doesn't take you off the Back Roads and Beaches Multi-Sport Route. Discover something exciting along the BRaB this winter.

Winter Days Festival photo by Mark Teleha

With our temps in the twenties this weekend, it’s fitting for the Lorain County Metro Parks annual Winter Days festival to be held Saturday (Jan 26th) from 10 to 4 at the Vermilion River Reservation. We don’t sit back and endure winter in north central Ohio, we celebrate it! And why not? It’s one of our four most beautiful seasons! So bundle up and enjoy the crisp winter air while taking in dog sled presentations, ice carving demonstrations, sleigh (carriage) rides, live music, a chili cook-off and be sure to BYOS – “bring your own sled” to cruise down their great sledding hill! You can warm up throughout the day in the Carriage Barn and purchase refreshments before you head back out for more.

Not seeing a big thaw in our future, we gear up for another cool event…the 5^th Annual Ice-A-Fair to Remember on Saturday February 2^nd from 11 to 4 in Downtown Vermilion. Cycle down Liberty and Main Streets, stroll or catch Lolly the Trolley and marvel at the sight of over 50 ice carvings, some carved on site!! Stop in the quaint shops and restaurants downtown to warm up and grab a bite to eat.

Excitement along the BRaB is waiting for you...don't forget your camera!

For dining, shopping and lodging listings go to www.visitloraincounty.com or call us at 800.334.1673

Snow Sports

Snow doesn't always mean putting the bike away!

The cold and snowy winter season is thoroughly upon us Ohioans, and with that comes the opportunity for winter sports! Of course, snow is by no means needed for all winter sports. Any day this winter you can head out for a hike somewhere like the Vermillion River Reservation, Findley State Park (check out their annual winter hike in February), or Indian Hollow Reservation. And you can always hit the North Park Ice Arena for an afternoon of skating.

Hiking in the Lorain County Metro Parks

For now, we do have plenty of snow so take the opportunity to go snowshoeing at one of the Lorain County Metro Parks. You'll have the choice at becoming part of a program, or just renting the shoes on an hourly basis. People of any age can get energized by heading out on a snowshoeing adventure. And what a unique twist on your usual day of hiking!

Keep in mind you can find plenty of great cross country skiing. Parks like the Black River Reservation and the North Cost Inland Trail allow you to ski right here in Lorain County. Grab  pair of skis and head out at your own pace for a great afternoon.