Great Getaways

www.visitwestbranch.com

The following are some suggested itineraries, based on our own experiences with accompanying video clips to help you decide if it is a place for you. Feel free to select only one or two activities per day according to your family’s interests. For assistance or for more information, call the West Branch Visitors Bureau - (800) 755-9091. Have fun!

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Photo Galleries
West Branch, Michigan Winter 2007

» Winter Gallery 1	» Winter Gallery 2

Video

Related Information & Links
	Show Introduction
		[bring your family, warm clothes, and winter gear] Conveniently located off of I-75, with abundant snowfall and meticulously maintained trails, it is no wonder that so many outdoor enthusiasts select West Branch and Ogemaw County as their wintertime destination. So bundle up and get ready to explore winter in Ogemaw County! » West Branch/Ogemaw County Travelers & Visitors Bureau » Forwards Quality Inn & Conference Center
	Cross-Country Skiing at Ogemaw Hills Pathway
		[4 hours // x-country skis, layered clothing, thermos, water, snacks, first aid kit, compass, cell phone, map] We finished a hearty breakfast and were ready to start our day with some cross country skiing. We had heard that there was a cross country ski trail here that was the envy of the state and I was excited to try it. It was the Ogemaw Hills Pathway. » Ogemaw Hills Pathway Information - West Branch Visitors Bureau » Ogemaw Hills Pathway Map (PDF 2.16MB) » Trail Report - West Branch Visitors Bureau
	Ice Fishing
		[6 hours // fishing gear, auger, warm clothing, waterproof boots, hand warmers, warm drinks, snacks, ice spikes, compass] I was looking forward to trying some of the ice fishing that I have heard so much about. The county is just loaded with lakes no matter which direction you went. When I asked Steve where we were headed he didn’t say a thing except “follow me”. » Fishing - West Branch Visitors Bureau
	Snowshoeing at Rifle River Recreation Area
		[5 hours // snowshoes, layered clothing, thermos, water, snacks, first aid kit, compass, cell phone, map] Steve had told me he was going to take me to a snowshoe area where I could break my own trail and I was excited with the opportunity. Well, when Steve said "drop me off" that is exactly what he meant. He showed us how to get to the Rifle River Recreation Area and said "have fun and I will see you tomorrow!" This is the jewel of this nature-blessed county – a wilderness located within the AuSable State Forest. » Rifle River Recreation Area - West Branch Visitors Bureau » Rifle River Recreation Area - Trail Map (PDF 364 KB)
	Trail Grooming & Snowmobiling
		[full day // snowmobile, snacks, drinks, cell phone] I guess the secret is finally out: Snowmobiling is one of the most exciting ways to experience Michigan's snow-lined back-country in winter. Unlike other snow sports, this one can be quickly learned and doesn’t require a lot of physical stamina. » Trail Report - West Branch Visitors Bureau » Snowmobiling - West Branch Visitors Bureau » Snowmobiling Trails Map (PDF 5.37MB)