Encompassing 200 acres within the Manistee National Forest, Caberfae Peaks Ski Area sits at the heart of the Lower Peninsula's snow country, 15 miles west of Cadillac. where the average annual natural snowfall is 135 inches. Caberfae's stationary and mobile snow-gun fleet supplements nature's snow blanket with a 100 percent coverage capacity. Snowboarders look forward to opening day generally occurring in early December. The typical season lasts through March.
Caberfae Ski Area consists of North Peak and South Peak. The resort features a 485-foot vertical drop. Of the 34 snowboard and ski runs, the longest is 4,960 feet. Lift service includes two double, one triple and one quad chairlift, and two surface tows. Boarders enjoy the choice of two terrain parks to challenge and build their skills. Nearest the main lodge, Jibbers Park on Shelter offers rails, boxes and other features for the beginner to intermediate boarder. Cammy's Park on the Upper Mountain is designed for intermediate to advanced boarders with two consecutive table-top jumps.
Snowboard and helmet rentals are available for children, youth and adults. Certified instructors offer private and group lessons for beginners, as well as the more experienced boarder wishing to improve skills. The children's snowboard teaching program for youngsters ages 6 to 10 focuses on mountain safety. and uses games to teach basic skills. Contact Caberfae to make lesson reservations, schedule times, and make lesson payments with a major credit card.
The 36-room MacKenzie Lodge offers slopeside convenience and equipment lockers with a boot drying system for boarder comfort. Beatie's Bar and Grill located within the lodge is a favorite place for snowboarders to refuel and warm up. Two day lodges, a pub, and ski shop provide for almost every need. A wide range of additional lodging options are available in Cadillac West, such as Pilgrim Village Resort's private cottages. A stone's throw down the road from the cottages, Da Dawg House Restaurant offers casual breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
