Guide to Ski Resorts in Michigan

Little known fact: Michigan comes in second for the most ski areas in the United States. Between the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula, there are more than 40 ski areas that call the Great Lakes state home. Whether you’re a skier or snowboarder looking for a challenge or a family of four looking for a nice weekend getaway, nearly every region in Michigan has something to offer.

Get the inside scoop on where to go and tips that help you enjoy a day or weekend on the slopes with this exhaustive list of ski resorts around Pure Michigan.

Skiing & Snowboarding in Northwest Michigan

When most people think of “heading up north,” they usually are looking toward Michigan’s northwest lower peninsula, and for good reason. This region is home to one of the best snowbelts in the state, thanks largely to classic lake effect snows we see rolling in off the big lake. If you’re lucky to catch a storm cycle, be prepared because when it’s good, it’s really good.

Mt. Holiday – Traverse City

With 16 runs ranging from beginner to advanced, there is a ski trail for everyone at Mt. Holiday. In addition to skiing, travelers can enjoy ziplining and tubing.

Caberfae Peaks – Cadillac

Michigan 115 (M-115) is the start of ski areas in the northern lower. Just 90 minutes north of Grand Rapids and a quick jaunt west on M55 in Cadillac will bring you to Caberfae Peaks. Boasting a family-friendly atmosphere, what Caberfae might lack in frills and over-the-top resort amenities they more than make up for by getting back to the core of skiing and snowboarding. With 34 runs, Caberfae brings 485 vertical feet and a wide-open backcountry area that’s lift-accessible, they are possibly one of the most affordable ski areas in Michigan as well. Day and night skiing is available at Caberfae, and, for the best deals, get your tickets online before you even leave home. A full-service demo and rental shop are on-site for those who need equipment. The recently refreshed Mackenzie Lodge offers up ski in, ski out accommodations.

Crystal Mountain – Thompsonville

Head 31 miles northwest of Cadillac and you’ll reach Crystal Mountain—a favorite amongst many looking for a weekend getaway with ample on-site lodging. If there is one theme that stands out the most at Crystal, it’s family. With 58 runs of varied terrain and 375 vertical feet, this is a spot where everyone in your group will find a run they like.

Crystal Mountain has a full-service demo and rental fleet on hand if you don’t have your own equipment. Ski and snowboard lessons are available for all ages and abilities starting at three years old so there’s no excuse for why your entire family cannot get out and enjoy the slopes. For those looking for great off-hill experiences, rent a fat bike and go for a ride in the snow, or relax after a day on the slopes at Crystal’s award-winning spa.

On-site lodging is available for nearly every budget, and even the simple, no-frills hotel rooms found in the Hamlet still offer a near ski in, ski out experience. If you forgot something or need some snacks for your stay, check out the new Mountain Market for grocery items.

Bay Mountain at The Homestead – Glen Arbor

Lake Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Bay and the impressive Sleeping Bear Dunes dominate the views from atop Bay Mountain to provide a ski experience unlike any other in Michigan.

Hickory Hills Ski Area – Traverse City

Each year thousands of recreational enthusiasts enjoy the Hickory Hills Ski Area for snowboarding, alpine skiing, crosscountry skiing, and recreational snowshoeing in beautiful Traverse City.

Petoskey Winter Sports Park – Petoskey

A go-to spot that has it all: sledding, ice skating, hockey, skiing, and snowboarding. The park also features a warming house complete with a fireplace, concession stand, and board games available to check out.

Challenge Mountain – Boyne City

Established in 1984 as a non-profit organization, Challenge Mountain was the first independent adaptive skiing program in northern Michigan. Today, Challenge Mountain offers a wide variety of opportunities that continue to en rich lives and empower individuals living with dis abilities through year-round adaptive recreation.

Skiing & Snowboarding in Northern Michigan

Situated midway be tween Sleeping Bear

Dunes and the Mackinac Bridge is Antrim County, which is by far one of the snowiest counties in the lower peninsula and perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

Boyne Mountain Resort – Boyne Falls

Boyne Mountain Resort has a vari ety of activities. Come winter, guests can take advantage of more than 60 downhill trails, enjoy cross country skiing, fat tire biking, horseback riding, ice skating, ziplining, snowshoeing, and tubing.

The Highlands – Harbor Springs

With over 432 acres, 53 runs, three ter rain parks and eight lifts, The Highlands at Harbor Springs has trails for all levels of ski enthusiasts. The resort also offers a range of lodging from deluxe rooms and condos to cottages. The resort is also home to a tubing park, zip line adven tures, horseback riding, and more.

Treetops Resort – Gaylord

With snowmobiling, snowshoeing, horse back riding, tubing, and more, Treetops has the perfect mix of family activities. As an added bonus, kids six and under can ski for free with a paying adult.

Shanty Creek Resorts – Bellaire

Fifty-three runs can be found at Shanty Creek between Schuss Mountain and Summit Mountain. While both Schuss and Summit offer up a great variety of terrain, for a more family-focused resort feel and beginner to intermediate runs, check out Summit Mountain. If you’re after steeps, terrain parks, and long runs, get over to Schuss for some runs.

A true destination resort, accommodations on-site at Shanty

Serving Michigan since 1949, Snow Snake is a popular family destination for skiing and snow tubing.

Skiing & Snowboarding in Southwest Michigan

Whether you’re a local of Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Holland, or Grand Haven looking to sneak in some mid-week turns or you’re heading up from Chicago or South Bend, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some great snow. When the weather is right, the southwest Lower Peninsula benefits from famous lake effect snow coming in off Lake Michigan.

Cannonsburg Ski Area – Belmont

Enjoy 18 runs (one at 1,800 feet), two terrain parks, and racing programs when you ski at Cannonsburg. Guests can also enjoy tubing and a special program for girls ages three to five called Mountain Minnies which encourages young girls to try snow sports.

Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl – Grand Haven

Nestled in the hills just steps from the beaches in Grand Haven resides a great community secret known as Mulligan’s Hollow. The ski bowl, the former site of a WWII boot camp training United States Coast Guard members, is now a full-fledged community ski area right on the lakeshore. Open Thursday through Sunday and select school holidays, Mulligan’s Hollow is home to six trails all served by a network of five rope tows. It’s a great value, especially for those with children, as parents ski for free with their kids! Ditch your poles, grab an older pair of gloves and head out to Grand Haven to take some turns under the lights at the ski bowl of Mulligan’s Hollow.

Bittersweet Ski Area – Otsego

A bit northwest of Kalamazoo in Otsego, you will find Bittersweet Resort. As it’s just off U.S. 131 and only one hour and 40 minutes from South Bend, Bittersweet is an easy choice for many. With 20 runs and 350 vertical feet, the terrain at Bittersweet is far from flat. A great mix of terrain welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. In fact, Bittersweet has one of the more competitive ski race leagues in the state. If you do not have your own gear, no need to worry, Bittersweet has a full rental fleet with skis, snowboards, and helmets. Ski families in the area take note of Bittersweet’s family season ski passes. Whether you’re a family of two or four, Bittersweet has some great season packages to make sure you get out and enjoy the slopes in an affordable manner.

Timber Ridge Ski Area – Gobles

When the temperature drops, head to the historic Timber Ridge Ski Area, Southwest Michigan’s oldest ski hill. Here, you’ll find skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and other snow sports in Gobles.

Skiing & Snowboarding in Southeast Michigan

Often overlooked by many in the state, you don’t have to go very far to enjoy some great skiing and snowboarding in the southeast portion of Michigan.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking to get some mileage on your skis mid-week before heading north, or you’re in town looking for some winter adventure, a few ski areas are sure to deliver.

Alpine Valley Ski Area – White Lake Township

Located off of M-59 just west of Waterford Township is Alpine Valley. Home hill of 2018 Team U.S.A. Snowboarder, Kyle Mack, Alpine Valley has some of the most scenic views in the area. With 25 runs and 4 terrain parks, Alpine Valley is one of the largest ski areas in southern Michigan. Rentals are available for skiers and snowboarders, making Alpine a perfect spot for those in the area not looking to own a bunch of equipment. Lift ticket options range from full-day passes to evening only, making this a perfect spot for after work.

Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort – Clarkston

The closest resort to Detroit, Pine Knob offers various slopes and trails as well as three terrain parks and ski lessons for beginners.

Mt. Brighton Ski Area – Brighton

Renovated by Vail Resorts for the 2013/2014 season, Mt. Brighton is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders in southeast Michigan. Vail Resorts are known for their skier services and positive experiences both on and off the slopes, and Mt. Brighton follows suit. Twenty-four runs can be found of varied terrain at Mt. Brighton and with a great split of beginner, intermediate and advanced options, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Swiss Valley Ski Area – Jones

Swiss Valley is conveniently located in Jones, Michigan, enticing folks to visit from all over southern Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. Here, you’ll find 11 runs, a 225 vertical foot peak (the highest in Southwest Michigan) and seven lifts, including two quads and one triple.

Mount Holly – Holly

Nestled in Groveland Township near Holly there’s no other ski area quite like Mt. Holly. The ski area’s seven chairlifts include Southeastern Michigan’s only high-speed detachable quad, three rope tows, and two SunKid Wonder Carpets.

Skiing & Snowboarding in the Up per Peninsula

At some point, you owe it to yourself to plan a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The U.P. is home to some of the biggest snowfalls in the country!

Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort – Mohawk

The Keweenaw Peninsula is home to the famed Mount Bohemia where the average snowfall is in the 270” range and 900 vertical feet. Located just 45 minutes north of Houghton in the Keweenaw, Bohemia is not for the faint of heart. The 585 acres of skiable terrain is all backcountry-style, meaning no groomers here. 2 main lifts service the ski area with a fleet of shuttle buses that get you back to either should you get too far away. A destination in and of itself, if you’re looking to plan a trip, book your accommodations early as many weekends will sell out in advance. Yurts are prime options for staying on-site at Bohemia, but if you’re looking for the creature comforts of a hotel, plan to stay down in Houghton. If you are really feeling adventurous, book a Snowcat skiing trip at Voodoo Mountain. Mt. Bohemia’s sister ski area, Voodoo offers up a unique experience not found elsewhere east of the Mississippi.

Marquette Mountain Ski Area – Marquette

Marquette is best known as the home of Northern Michigan University, but the local ski hill, Marquette Mountain, delivers great views of Lake Superior. Smaller in scale with only 18 runs, Marquette Mountain brings the feeling of a community ski area versus a destination resort. While no lodging is available on-site, check out the nearby lodging options noted on the Marquette Mountain website.

Bessemer Area Skiing

If you’re planning a U.P. ski trip, make sure you take time to west to Bessemer. Just east of the Michigan/Wisconsin border you will find three great ski areas in the area: Blackjack Mountain, Indianhead Mountain, and Big Powderhorn are all within a 20-minute drive of one another.

Blackjack Mountain—Big Snow Resort and Indianhead Mountain are under the same management group which means one lift ticket gets you access to 56 runs between the two. If you’re looking for more mellow terrain for the beginner and intermediate, stick to Blackjack. For those looking for steeper and longer runs, the frontside of Indianhead delivers. There is plenty of affordable on-site lodging options from hotel rooms to condos and chalets.

Ranked one of the top five Midwest ski resorts, a stop-off at Big Powderhorn should be in order while visiting Bessemer. With 45 runs, multiple terrain parks, and an average of 17 feet of snow each year, Powderhorn is a destination on its own in the western U.P. All ages and skill levels can appreciate the terrain at Powderhorn with an even mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Bessemer is Big Snow Country and it is certainly worth the trek through the western U.P. to explore all there is.

Mt. Zion – Ironwood

Located on the campus of Gogebic Community College, Mt. Zion is the oldest winter recreation complex in “Big Snow Country.” With equipment rentals, Learn to Ski programs and GCC’s nationally recognized Ski Area Management Program, this location is a great place for learners and seasoned snow sports enthusiasts.

Mont Ripley at Michigan Tech – Houghton

Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing for Michigan Technological University and the public. As the oldest ski area in Michigan in the snowiest city in the Midwest, Mont Ripley is a true alpine town experience: 22 trails, a terrain park, tubing park, and a scenic overlook of the Keweenaw Waterway.

Pine Mountain Resort – Iron Mountain

Set among scenic mountain views and sprawling pine forests, Pine Mountain is consistently ranked one of the best lift ticket values in the Midwest.

Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park – Ontonagon

The Porkies is truly a family resort that provides a winter sports experience fitting every family member: first-timers, aspiring intermediates, thrill-seeking advanced athletes, and park rats who want a taste of natural features. Snowboarders, alpine, and telemark skiers can experience an unparalleled variety of terrain from well-groomed runs to powder stashes. You can enjoy everything from green comfortable runs to thrilling black diamonds and from open runs to nicely-shaped glades.

Ski Brule – Iron River

Ski Brule is a premier ski resort in the Upper Peninsula, located near the Wisconsin/Michigan border. Ski Brule is perfect for a day trip or a weekend get-away and offers winter activities for everyone: skiing, snowboarding, terrain parks, snow tubing, and trails for fat-tire biking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Families will love the resort’s sleigh rides and kids’ programs, and anyone can work on perfecting trick jumps with the Acrobag, a giant inflatable bag at the bottom of a five-foot jump!

Finally . . . .

Wherever you decide to go, keep in mind that planning ahead and booking early will save you money and the hassle once on-site. From the beginner to advanced skier or snowboarder seeking adventure to a full-on family getaway, Michigan’s ski areas offer up something for everyone. Get outside and enjoy all that Michigan has to offer in the winter months.

About the Author: Jason Dodge resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is the founder of BlackTruck Media + Marketing and editor-at-large of Michigan Ski Report, a website dedicated to highlighting the culture of skiing and snowboarding in Michigan.