Did you know that there are more ski resorts in Michigan than any other state other than New York? Michigan has some of the best skiing locations in the country, but most people aren’t aware of it. About 38 different hotels spread around the Great Lakes State that provide a wide variety of exciting settings to explore.
Skiers and snowboarders alike will find something to their liking in practically every corner of Michigan, whether they are searching for an adventure or just a peaceful weekend escape. With this comprehensive list of ski resorts in and near Pure Michigan, you’ll have all the information you need to have a great day or vacation on the hills. Make sure you have your Descente storm or insulated jacket on because you’re in for a chilly ride.
The Boyne Highlands
With a more laid-back atmosphere, Boyne Highlands is located little over half an hour from Boyne Mountain and overlooks the Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan. However, that doesn’t mean it lacks the areas where it counts most.
In addition, there are 55 courses for every capacity level and more than 550 feet (0.17 km) of elevation to keep you busy on the steep slopes. Even though the après atmosphere is less raucous, there is still enough to do off the hills. These activities include hill sledding, an ice skating rink, cross-country trails, snowshoe trails, and a tubing park. Townhouses and charming log cabins are just a few neighboring lodging options.
The Gem Mountain
Parents Magazine named Crystal Mountain one of the ten best family-friendly ski resorts in its annual list of the best family ski resorts. Kids as young as three can participate in snowboarding and skiing activities, and children under six have a free pass for skiing. There are 58 routes on the mountain, with lighting on half of them for people who prefer to ski in the evening.
There are plenty of other activities available for those who don’t enjoy skiing or snowboarding, including an award-winning spa. Drive north of Detroit for about 3 hours, more or less, and you’ll get a good look at the area around Lake Michigan. You can easily plan an end-of-week ski trip with confidence, thanks to a snowmaking system that covers practically the entire mountain.
Nub’s Nob Ski Resort & Snowboard Park
Nub’s Nob is the place to go if you want to get your ski boots on quickly or before you travel West. The easy trails take up roughly a third of the land, while the intermediate routes take around half. That allocates just enough space for the most challenging courses. Even intermediate skiers can tackle these trails, as the vertical drop is just 427 feet (0.13 km).
If you’re a rookie, you’ll find a free section with a chairlift just for you. It’s possible to enjoy a game before you buy a ticket if you’re unsure if you’ll enjoy it. Skiing is free for children under eight and visitors over 70 y/o. During the ascent to Pintail Peak, its delicately twisting slope is ideal for skiing.
Ski Brule
Even though it looks like a bakery shop rather than a ski resort, you’ll discover why it’s an absolute delight to ride here. Snowboarders and cross-country skiers alike love Ski Brule. Aside from being the first to open in October, it promises to stay open for nearly half the year.
Fat biking, cross-country skiing, and sleigh rides are additional winter activities available at Ski Brule. Ski Brule’s Acrobag is a unique air-filled landing cushion that lets users launch themselves five feet into the air (for free when you purchase a lift ticker). All children under the age of nine may enjoy free skiing on Sundays, as well as tailored classes and on-site childcare at Ski Brule.
The Caberfae Peaks
The Caberfae Peaks, situated near Cadillac, is prone to receiving lake effect snowfall. This family-friendly resort hotel also caters to those who respect their intellect. You can pack your lunches in brown paper bags and enjoy them on the base zone’s first floor, or you can connect a simmering pot there for a light dinner.
The North Peak is an excellent option for intermediates and newbies, while the South Peak is the most challenging. I-75, the mountain’s sharpest rapid rise, is closed most of the time. However, it provides an opportunity for you to take a breather before entering. Consider this a Michigan version of Corbet’s Couloir.
Michigan features some of the best skiing in the United States, even if you’re not a native. It’s home to a plethora of world-class ski resorts, many of which are affordable for even the most frugal of skiers. Ultimately, try not to overlook the entire list of Michigan ski resorts in this post.
