Clakston, MI– February 2, is Groundhog Day, the day when Punxsutawney Phil, the famous Pennsylvania groundhog predicts whether or not we’ll have a long, cold winter or an early spring.

Regardless of what the groundhog predicts, the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association says that it will stay snowy on Michigan’s slopes.  “It’s been cold enough through December and January to make a good snow base on our slopes,” says Mickey MacWilliams, executive director of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA).  “Ski areas across Michigan are open and the skiing and snowboarding is great,” she adds.

MacWilliams says that Michigan ski areas can make snow whenever temperatures drop below 28 degrees Fahrenheit, which has happened often this winter.  She adds that snow made by machine is denser and therefore packs better and lasts longer than the stuff provided by Mother Nature.

MacWilliams says that whether the groundhog sees his shadow and predicts cold and snow or not, there is still plenty of time to get out and enjoy Michigan’s ski slopes and trails.

For Michigan snow conditions, visit MSIA’s website, goskimichigan.com then click on the Ski Areas and Conditions button to the left.