Wanderlust World Wanderlust World With its long winter season and snowfalls averaging more than 270 inches annually, Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers some of the best ski slope conditions in the Midwest. It's also home to resorts with bragging rights to the state's highest vertical drops, according to MountainVertical.com's independent evaluations.
The Keweenaw Peninsula's Mount Bohemia boasts an 820-foot vertical drop, the highest of all Midwest ski resorts. At this facility that also brags of having the region's deepest powder, it's extreme skiing only. On average, Mount Bohemia sees 273 inches of snow each winter, but during the 2013-2014 season more than 350 inches fell. The lake-effect snow here is dry powder and comparable to snow covering slopes in the Western United States. Overnighting at the resort's ski-in/ski-out cabins and yurts keeps downhill enthusiasts trailside.
The Porkies ski area nestles within the Porcupine Mountains along Lake Superior near Ontonagon. A designated wilderness area and National Natural Landmark, the Porcupine Mountains are part of one of the oldest mountain chains in the world. With its 641-foot drop, this Western Upper Peninsula ski area provides the state's second highest vertical. Thirteen trails ranging from easy to expert, four gladed areas and three lifts offer access to slope adventures. The city of Ontonagon provides a variety of cabins, cottages and motel rooms for overnights.
Located in the Western Upper Peninsula town of Wakefield, Indianhead Mountain Resort ranks fourth with a true vertical descent of 540 feet. Runs overlook the vast wilds of the Ottawa National Forest. Thirty open runs spanning 230 acres and bountiful natural snowfalls beckon downhill lovers throughout the season. Overnight at comfortable trailside condos or mountain top chalets. Blackjack Ski Resort also lies in the heart of Michigan's snow country. Situated between Wakefield and Bessemer, Blackjack ranks fifth with a 465-foot vertical. More than 135 skiable acres total, six lifts and opportunities for beginners to expert downhill fans create a wide range of experiences. Overnight at condos offering saunas, hot tubs and cozy wood-burning fireplaces.
Boyne Highlands is the only Lower Peninsula ski area ranking in Michigan's top five. Located in Harbor Springs in the northwest corner of the Mitten, its highest vertical measures 552 feet. With an average annual snowfall of 140 inches, the resort's natural snows are far short of the snowfalls blessing Upper Peninsula ski resorts, but an efficient snowmaking system at the Highlands compliments Mother Nature's efforts. Eight lifts and more than 50 trails accommodate beginners to experts. As a bonus, Boyne lift tickets are honored at both the Highlands and its nearby sister resort, Boyne Mountain. Alpine cottages and condos provide comfortable lodging for overnight visits.