Active Backwoods Retreats (ABR) offers 42km of fantastic cross-country skiing in the snow-wealthy upper peninsula of Michigan. The terrain is varied for all abilities and is along the scenic Montreal River, which separates Michigan from Wisconsin. Trails are Pisten Bully groomed for skating and diagonal striding, and are located on private land. There is an additional 10 km of snowshoe trail and a separate 3 km dog trail for skiing or walking. A trailhead warming cabin is available, a full service ski shop with rentals, demos and retail as well as ski instruction. ABR hosts the Midwest Grooming clinic in January along with many fun events in March listed on their calendar of events.

ABR has 8 Trailside Lodging Units from rustic ski in cabins, to motel rooms, to luxury houses with full linens and dishes.

The River House is located on the ski trail and is accessible by car. It has 3 bedrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, a living room with a fireplace, a wax area, pool table, sauna, and sleeps up to 10 people. The River House Annex consists of 2 additional motel room style rooms located off the common entrance hallway. These can be rented with the River House or as separate rooms. The Annex rooms are complete with a full private bathroom, microwave, frig and coffee maker and each have 2 queen beds.

The Hilltop House is a new house with awesome sunrise and sunset views. The house features a loft, a large kitchen, dining, living area with a fireplace and 18 foot vaulted knotty pine ceilings It sleeps up to 15 people with the 3 bathrooms and 3 bedrooms and loft. There is also a laundry room and a wax area.

For those looking for a rustic experience ABR has 4 rustic cabins on the trail. They are accessible only by skiing or snowshoeing and can accommodate from 1-8 people. They are located from a ½ km to 1 km in on the trail system. They have firewood and drinking water provided, and some have solar lights, (sauna and shower privileges are at an additional cost at the trailhead).

The ski trails at ABR are typically open from early November through April 1st. Take advantage of the lengthy ski season of Michigan's upper peninsula to enjoy a skiing getaway at Active Backwoods Retreat.

For more details, visit their web site at www.abrski.com