Over the past few weeks of the Spring Semester, Berrien Springs has been pelted with a series of winter storms. It’s very easy to stay in our dorms and sulk around with the current state of the weather, but it looks like the blanket of snow is here to stay for the foreseeable future. So, why not find ways to make it more bearable? Here is a list of six fun and affordable locations to visit while the snow lasts (and even when it melts).
1. Sarett Nature Center - Benton Harbor, MI
Driving distance from campus: 15-20 minutes
Description: The Sarett Nature Center offers 5 miles of beginner friendly trails around the surrounding prairie, forest, and wetlands. Rentals are available for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and Yaktrax. More information is available here.
2. Love Creek Winter Trails - Berrien Center, MI
Driving distance from campus: 7 minutes
Description: The Love Creek Nature Center is open from 10am-5pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Ski rentals, bike rentals, and snowshoe rentals are available. More information is available here.
3. Five Pines Camp - Berrien Center, MI
Driving distance from campus: 6-11 minutes
Description: The Five Pines Camp offers a sensational 400ft tubing hill PLUS a mile’s worth of cross-country skiing trails. After some fun on the slopes, enjoy their Harv Chrouser Activity Center where you can enjoy a warm wood stove, free games, and the Snack Shop/General Store. More information is available here.
For those of you who aren’t up for a day in the snow and would much rather spend your time in a nice, heated facility, you might consider treating yourself to some of these fun, indoor venues.
4. South Bend Chocolate Company - South Bend, IN
Driving distance from campus: 30 minutes
Description: For only a $5.00 entry fee, indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy this 58,000 square foot factory and museum with hundreds of chocolates and sweets to choose from. More information is available here.
5. Puzzlemental Escape Room - St. Joseph, MI
Driving distance from campus: 22 minutes
Description: The Puzzlemental Escape Room offers three challenging escape rooms that will be sure to keep your mind engaged. Walk-ins are welcome based on room availability, but customers are encouraged to make reservations in advance. More information is available here.
6. Forte Coffee - St. Joseph, MI
Driving distance from campus: 22 minutes
Description: Forte Coffee offers a wide selection of coffee, lattes (caffeinated and non-caffeinated), smoothies, frappes, tea, and baked goods. Treat yourself to a nice cup of coffee (or a non-caffeinated drink) and a bakery goodie. More information is available here.
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