Metroparks, Sledding Hills, Ski Slopes Packed As Snow Finally Hits

DETROIT (WWJ) As most metro Detroit kids enjoyed a holiday break while the first big snowstorm of 2012 hit, lots of people got what they wanted: enough snow -- and time -- to go sledding or skiing.

Denise Semion with the Huron-Clinton Metroparks said her park's sledding hills and cross-country centers were open all day Thursday, and packed. The same situation is expected Friday and into the weekend.

"We have separate hills designated for beginning or intermediate type sledders, you can't have toboggans, for example, in certain areas and you can't snowboard unless you're on a designated snowboard hill and those are located at Kensington and Stoney Creek," Semion said.

Skiing was the name of the game at Mt. Brighton where families packed the slopes all day Thursday -- and just as many were expected Friday. Manager Rob Bruhn said he was jumping up and down in excitement as the snow fell.

"We're going to check it out right now, finally we got some snow," said skiing enthusiast Mark Keisel of Ann Arbor.

Youngster Connor Pine took advantage of the weather to go skiing for the first time, hitting the bunny hills with his sisters. He said walking up the hill was the hardest part -- but he was happy to be there.

Matt Shelton, a Brighton High School student, was enjoying the bright sunshine, soft snow, and time on the slopes with friends. But can he ski?

"I like to think so, that's all that matters," Shelton said, laughing.