Retirees have access to these facilities to stay fit or just have fun.
Gates Tennis Center
Michigan Tech’s Gates Tennis Center is the area’s premier indoor tennis facility. For beginners to pros and everyone in between, the center has all of the top amenities, including four professional-quality indoor courts, all recently resurfaced; ball machine for practices and drills; locker rooms with showers; and a pro shop with staff capable of handling all of your equipment needs, restringing racquets, performing repairs, and answering questions!
Portage Lake Golf Course
You needn't drive far to find a golf course on par with the best in the Western Upper Peninsula—Portage Lake Golf Course (PLGC). Established in 1903 and acquired by Michigan Tech in 1945, PLGC is one of the oldest golf courses in the area. The course features a beautifully irrigated, 18-hole green. Take a respite from the elements and quell your hunger and thirst at the Par & Grill, renovated in 2008. Stop by the Pro Shop and pick up all the essentials for your game or get your PLGC branded attire, including T-shirts, hats and more. Apply for an annual pass at the Pro Shop and save some green on the green, with perks that include guest passes, merchandise and tournament discounts, complimentary pull carts and more.
Ski Mont Ripley
Michigan Tech boasts the oldest ski hill in Michigan--Mont Ripley. Located across the Portage Canal from the University, Mont Ripley is as iconic as the Portage lift bridge. The Copper Hoist, one of three lifts operating at Mont Ripley, was added in 2007 and runs up the east side of the mountain, providing access to half a dozen ski runs. The T-bar runs up the middle of the hill, and the Husky Lift serves the west side. With three terrain parks, runs ranging from beginner to expert in difficulty, and a diverse offering of skiing and snowboarding lessons, there's something for everyone at Mont Ripley. Michigan Tech students can enjoy Mont Ripley for free through the Experience Tech initiative.
Student Development Complex
Incredible facilities, modern equipment, and enough variety to keep the whole family active and motivated—Michigan Tech’s Student Development Complex (SDC) provides four seasons of recreation and fitness activities for students, faculty, staff, and the community. Michigan Tech students have access to the SDC through student fees. Faculty, staff, and community members can purchase memberships in a variety of price and length options. Daily passes are also available.
Tech Trails
With over 500 acres, Tech Trails is an expansive paradise for hikers, bikers and Nordic and cross-country skiers. One-half of the trail system is lighted, allowing for evening adventures during the winter. If you want to try cross-country skiing but you're not ready to commit to purchasing gear, Michigan Tech's Student Development Complex offers rental equipment for a nominal fee. The trail system, which has played host to the Junior Olympics and the US Cross Country Championships, was recently expanded and features a chalet with a great room, a fireplace, changing rooms and showers. Whether you're looking for a place to commune with nature or a gnarly trail to test your skills, Tech Trails is the place to do it.