Lapeer is a city east of Flint in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It is a combination of historical sites, modern buildings and shops in a community with a small town atmosphere. Lapeer has many lakes, rivers, ponds, parks and nature trails in wooded areas, wetlands and fields that offer recreation for senior citizens who want an active lifestyle. Golf courses and fitness centers also include activities to keep older adults feeling young.
Fishing
Lapeer lies on a section of the Flint River, and the area includes 107 lakes for fishing. Boat and shore fishing are available on Lake Minnewanna in the Metamora-Hadley Recreation area, Holloway Reservoir and Lake Nepessing. Fish for bluegill, crappie, walleye, bass, catfish, pike and perch on Big Fish Lake or Mud Lake and fish from the shore on Pero Lake. Charters for small groups on Lapeer lakes are available.
Nature Walks
Walking is a low-impact aerobic exercise suited to senior citizens and Lapeer has many scenic areas where they can enjoy it. Parks in Lapeer include paved foot paths through wooded areas, prairies and wetlands over ponds and along the Flint River. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains many hiking areas in Lapeer, and nature trails offer opportunities for birdwatching and viewing other wildlife.
Swimming
Area lakes with sandy beaches, including those at the Holloway Reservoir and the Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, allow senior citizens to swim during summer months. In cooler weather, fitness centers, country clubs and community centers with pools are available so seniors can continue their recreation. An adapted "aquacise" exercise program for joint mobility, strength and flexibility designed for senior citizens is held at the Lapeer Community Center pool. The center's pool also has times for open swimming.
Fitness
Many Lapeer area fitness centers as well as Lapeer's community center offer senior-friendly classes and activities. Classes in swimming, aerobics, yoga and martial arts are available and seniors can use exercise cycles, treadmills, cross trainers and strength equipment with or without help from a personal trainer.
Sports
The community center and the parks and recreation department offer opportunities to participate in individual or team sports including basketball, tennis, dance and volleyball. A number of area nine- or 18-hole golf courses, driving ranges and practice facilities are available. Parks have horseshoe pits and ball fields for public use, allowing groups of seniors to get together and play.
