Legislative leaders from around the state plan to explore northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula on snowmobiles next month, witnessing firsthand the economic impact created by winter tourism. State senators Jason Allen of Traverse City and Tony Stamas of Midland will lead the tour.

“I look forward to this trip every winter,” said Sen. Allen. “Snowmobiling is one of the best ways to get out and see the beautiful scenery of our state. I enjoy getting out on the trails and experiencing Michigan’s winter wonderland.”

Beginning and ending in Grayling, the tour begins Wednesday, January 4, and ends Saturday, January 7. Legislators will visit Gaylord, Lewiston, Atlanta, Onaway, Cheboygan, Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, Cedarville, Pickford, Kinross, Sault Ste. Marie, Paradise, Alanson, and Indian River.

Joining the ride will be former Speaker of the House Rick Johnson, Representative Tom Casperson, Rep. Goeff Hansen, Rep. Kevin Elsenheimer, and members of the Michigan Snowmobile Association.

Michigan has more than 6,000 miles of groomed trails offering a terrain of forest and field to both residents and visitors. With almost 400,000 registered snowmobiles, riders contribute more than $1 billion to the state’s economy every year.