GRELICKVILLE -- A group trying to help northern Michigan enjoy the winter and stay active through cross-country skiing is hosting an open house.

Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trails, Inc. has been operating a cross-country ski grooming program on the Leelanau Trail since 1996.

The 15-mile trail is groomed for skate-style and classic-style skiing twice weekly, usually on Fridays and once during the week.

It takes four hours to groom the entire trail, making two passes- down and back. The Leelanau Trail is a great venue for novice skate-style skiers to practice, being that it is a former railroad and is relatively flat with very little grade.

Snowmobiles are not allowed on the Leelanau Trail, as it is a non-motorized facility. The snowmobiles damage the groomed trails that we are putting down for skiers. If you happen to see a snowmobile using the trail, we encourage you to report violators to the local law enforcement.

On Saturday February 5, 2011 TART Trails will be hosting an open house for skiers at the Cherry Bend Trailhead from 11-1.

TART Ambassadors, groomers and staff will be serving cookies and hot beverages to skiers and answering questions about the trail system and grooming program.

TART also grooms the Vasa Pathway, a series of loops in the Pere Marquette State Forest, in Acme Township. The Vasa Pathway is more technical than the Leelanau Trail with many hills and turns.

For more information about TART's grooming programs you can call 231-941-4300 or visit their website by CLICKING HERE.