Between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan, there are 58 different ski resorts and ski facilities for downhill skiers. Even though Michigan isn't known for its mountains, there are a lot of hills that provide excellent skiing. Many quality ski resorts in lower Michigan are along Lake Michigan and the tip of the thumb, where the snow falls heavily during the winter.
Crystal Mountain is a ski resort in the winter and a golf resort in the summer. The resort sits on 1,500 partially wooded acres about 45 minutes southwest of the Traverse City area. Lodging is available on the premise and packages are available for a discount.
Crystal Mountain has seven lifts, which will take you up to 45 different trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to single black diamond; there are no double black diamonds. There are more than 25 miles of groomed cross country ski trails and over two miles of lit trails for nighttime skiing. Ski and snowboard rental is available at the pro shop. There is also a large ski school, which offers training and classes for beginners to moderate-level skiers.
Crystal Mountain
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr.
Thompsonville, MI 49683
800-968-7686
crystalmountain.com
Boyne Mountain is one resort in the Boyne chain of resorts that sits in Boyne Falls, which is just south of Petoskey. Boyne Mountain has 52 different runs ranging in difficulty from easy to double black diamonds. The majority of the runs are easy and moderate slopes, with just 3 percent being most difficult. The longest run at Boyne Mountain is close to 5,000 feet long and has a drop of 500 feet.
There are many different hotels, lodges, cabins and villas available through the Boyne Resort where you can book to stay during your trip. A spa, an indoor water park, a club, a restaurant and a ski rental shop are on the grounds of Boyne Mountain.
Boyne Mountain
One Boyne Mountain Rd.
Boyne Falls, MI 49713
231-549-6000
boyne.com
There are 49 different ski trails on two separate mountains at Shanty Creek Resort. The trails run on Schuss and Summit Mountain, which has a 450-foot drop. The trails range from easy to difficult, but there are no double black diamond runs.
Shanty Creek has a ski and snowboard rental shop, ski and board lessons and daycare available. There are also 18 miles of groomed cross country ski trails and a five-lane tubing hill for families to enjoy. Lodging is available on the premises and is available in the form of hotel rooms, condos or villas with one, two and three bedrooms.
Shanty Creek
One Shanty Creek Rd.
Bellaire, MI 49615
800-678-4111
shantycreek.com
