Stay active this winter at the Superior Dome

Any prolonged exposure to the outdoors this time of year is not recommended, and for those who like to exercise outdoors, it leaves very few options.

Marquette is home to the largest wooden Dome in the world, the Superior Dome at Northern Michigan University.  Its doors are open and free for those looking to stay active during the winter months.

Since the program’s inception three years ago, walking in the winter has increased by more than 300%.

“What’s nice about walking in the Superior Dome is that it’s a level surface, you don’t have to worry about stepping off a curb, dealing with slippery sidewalks or the cold weather,” Associate Facilities Director for the Superior Dome Carl Bammert said.  “Especially on a day like today (Tuesday) with the temperature so cold, it’s a great place to come and walk.”

“You don’t have to worry about falling down on the slippery streets,” weekly Superior Dome walker Jim Huston said.  “(It’s) nice and warm and meet your friends.  It’s just a great facility and we are truly blessed to have something like this.”

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Northern Michigan University, and Marquette General Health Systems split the $20,000 cost of the program.

The dome is open to residents Monday- Thursday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m, and Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.