You may be wondering why it’s a good idea to look for the best Michigan ski resorts to go skiing. After all, you could just go anywhere, right? Well, not exactly. Michigan ski resorts are known for being some of the most affordable in the Midwest. Additionally, Michigan ski resorts are perfect for families looking to introduce their kids to skiing. Ski resorts are considered one of the best Michigan vacations for families during the winter. There are also great options for more experienced skiers at some of the more challenging resorts.
One of the main problems people have when looking for a ski resort is that they don’t know how to find the best one for their level of skiing skills. This can lead to people going to resorts that are too challenging or too easy for them, which can lead to a frustrating experience.
Another challenge is that not all Michigan ski resorts are created equal. Some resorts are better suited for beginners, while others are more challenging and perfect for experienced skiers. It’s important to do your research before you go skiing in Michigan so that you can find the best resort for your needs.
Some of these resorts also are located where the best sledding hills in Metro Detroit are as well.
We have classified the 27 best Michigan ski resorts that will help you have a relaxing time skiing while still getting to enjoy your favorite activities.
Best Michigan Ski Resorts for Families & Beginners
When looking for the best Michigan ski resorts to take your family, you’ll want to consider a few things. The first is the level of skiing experience that your family members have. If you have beginners, you’ll want to look for resorts that are perfect for them. These resorts will have gentle slopes and plenty of instruction available.
Boyne Highlands Resort
The largest and most experienced ski resort in Michigan, Boyne Highlands offers a variety of terrain for all levels. Their excellent Learn-to-ski program is considered world-class instruction and will get your kids on the right track. This is perfect if you or your kids are looking to get started or just need some more instruction on what exactly makes your run special.
The breathtaking backdrop that northern Michiganders call home provides the context needed when adventuring out onto these slopes. It’s truly one of the best Michigan ski resorts for families.
You’ll find more than just downhill skiing and snowboarding in this beautiful mountain town. From tubing hills, ice skating, or dogsledding, there is always something new to try. The accommodations range from hotel rooms & condominiums up to cozy cottages. You can choose how much space suits your needs best with plenty of ways for adventure at every powdery turn.
Features:
- Runs: 115 runs
- Lifts: 28 lifts
- Longest Run: 6,600′
- Vertical Drop: 500′-552′
Address: 600 Highland Drive, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Website: Boyne Highlands Resort
Phone Number: 888-436-2296
Boyne Mountain Resort
Boyne Mountain is a top destination resort with something for everyone. Guests staying at the hotel have access to equipment rental and can take advantage of complimentary beginner area lift tickets, making it cheap and easy to get started in this sport.
Activities include snowmaking facilities like Nordic skiing/ Snowshoeing during the winter months. Boyne’s Snowsports Academy offers both group and private lessons for children, as well as an adult program that caters to people of all ages.
In addition to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark (which has two pools), Boyne Mountain Resort provides tubing opportunities on their terrain hills with fat tire biking or snowshoeing nearby if you enjoy being outside in winter wonderland landscapes year-round. Night skiing is popular here at night when beautiful crystals cover each footprint made by light reflection.
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Website: Boyne Mountain Resort
Phone Number: 855-688-7024
Shanty Creek Resort
Shanty Creek offers two distinctive ski areas, with 53 runs total. The majority of ski runs are suitable for beginners and intermediates, while the rest offer advanced terrain for experienced skiers.
You’ll find three terrain parks at this resort; perfect if you need some extra challenge in your day. There’s also tubing available along groomed/track set trails so that even Nordic skiers can enjoy themselves when not out chasing powder.
Features:
- Runs: 53 runs
- Lifts: 6 lifts
- Longest Run: 5,280′
- Vertical Drop: 450′
Check out the live ski conditions of Schuss Mountain and Summit Village here.
Address: 5780 Shanty Creek Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615
Website: Shanty Creek Resort
Phone Number: 866-695-5010
Caberfae Peaks Resort
Caberfae Peaks Ski Resort is the state’s highest lift-served peak, and some say it has Michigan’s biggest vertical drops. With 34 runs, you’ll be able to try out advanced/intermediate ski conditions. The close proximity makes for less time spent driving.
Features:
- Runs: 34 runs
- Lifts: 5 lifts
- Longest Run: 3,960′
- Vertical Drop: 485′
Be sure to see their live webcam to monitor ski conditions here.
Address: 1 Caberfae Ln, Cadillac, MI 49601
Website: Caberfae Peaks Resort
Phone Number: 231-862-3000
Crystal Mountain Resort
Crystal Mountain is a family-owned and operated ski resort that has been providing guests with an unforgettable experience since it opened in 1965. With over 200 miles of slopes, there’s something for all.
The variety in terrain allows beginners as well as veterans to practice their skills on gentle hills while still being able to challenge yourself if you’re looking forward to going deeper into those runs.
There are tons of winter activities to keep you busy at Crystal Mountain, including snowshoeing and fat-tire biking. You can also go horseback riding on their Surrey Sires if that’s more your speed.
There is an indoor fitness center where guests will be able to take advantage during those cold winter months when they’re not shredding down the hills. Accommodations range from comfortable hotel rooms all the way up through large homes.
Located in the same area as the best Traverse City breweries, you have a lot of options in the vicinity for food and beverages.
Features:
- Runs: 58 runs
- Lifts: 9 lifts
- Longest Run: 5,280′
- Vertical Drop: 375′
Check out their live webcams here.
Address: 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville, MI 49683
Website: Crystal Mountain Resort
Phone Number: 855-721-5277
Best Upper Michigan Ski Resorts for Families & Beginners
If your family has more experienced skiers, you’ll want to look for resorts with more challenging slopes. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a great place to ski, with plenty of resorts to choose from. Upper-Michigan resorts are perfect for those who are looking for a more challenging ski experience. Additionally, these resorts tend to have longer seasons than the resorts in southern Michigan.
Pine Mountain Resort
Pine Mountain’s ski jump, often revered to as one of the best in America and abroad. The natural views are impeccable and incredible. Every February during ‘Jump Weekend,’ clubs from around Michigan come to gather at this family-friendly resort for some wintertime fun organized by Kiwanis International.
It’s a mountain of fun with snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, and so much more!
Address: N 3332 Pine Mountain Road, Iron Mountain, MI 49801
Website: Pine Mountain Resort
Phone Number: 906-774-2747
Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort is a ski area with a 622 feet vertical drop, 33 trails, and ten lifts. It also features two terrain parks that can be used for all levels of skiers as well as groomed cross country paths.
There are plenty of activities in the off-season, too.
- Ice skating at nearby rinks
- Horse-drawn sleigh rides through scenic areas around town
- Listening to live music during weekends nights over drinks (or wine!) inside Caribou Lodge’s grand lobby lounge.
On weekends, you can enjoy meals, swimming pools, saunas, and live entertainment.
Address: N 11375 Big Powderhorn Road, Bessemer, MI 49911
Website: Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Phone Number: 800-501-7669
Marquette Mountain Resort
The resort offers winter sports seasonally as well as mountain biking, volleyball, and hiking in the spring/summer. The hill has a summit elevation of 1,257 ft with over 300 acres making it perfect for all types of vacationers who want some fresh air while they enjoy non-ski activities.
There are three chairlifts that will take you up to 590 vertical feet. The Carp River Saloon is not only known for its food but also its beer tap system!
Address: 4501 M-553, Marquette, MI 49855
Website: Marquette Mountain Resort
Phone Number: 906-225-1155
Ski Brule
Ski Brule is more than just a ski resort. They have everything you need to make the most out of your stay, whether it’s in town or on the slopes. There are 30 acres worth of terrain for all types of skiers. Also noteworthy, 23km fully groomed snowboard/skating trails that are guarded by lights so they’ll be ready any time after sunset; there really isn’t anything this mountain doesn’t offer when compared against other places nearby. There’s ice skating available year-round too. Visitors can enjoy both winter activities.
Address: 397 Brule Mountain Road, Iron River, Michigan 49935
Website: Ski Brule
Phone Number: 800-362-7853
Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort
The coolest place to visit in the U.P., Mount Bohemia, is an all-inclusive resort. There are eight different sections with more than 500 acres of trails and terrain at elevation 1,465. Sections include middle earth, outer limits, the graveyard, haunted valley, and extreme backcountry. Oh, let’s not forget about the trailside yurts you can stay in that sleep ten guests.
Address: 6532 Gay Lac La Belle Road, Mohawk, Michigan
Website: Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort
Phone Number: 906-289-4105
Big Snow Resort – Blackjack
Big Snow Resort is home to two mountains. Blackjack mountain has a drop of over 490 feet and a top elevation of 1675 feet. It has 26 runs, and more than 60% of runs are for intermediate and beginner levels.
Address: N 11251 Blackjack Road, Bessemer, MI 49911
Website: Big Snow Resort – Blackjack
Phone Number: 800-346-3426
Big Snow Resort – Indianhead
Big Snow Resort is also home to Indianhead mountain. This mountain has a drop of over 638 feet and a top elevation of 1935 feet. It has 30 runs, and the majority are for advanced skiers.
Check out their live cam here.
Address: 500 Indianhead Rd., Wakefield, MI 49968
Website: Big Snow Resort – Indianhead
Phone Number: 800-346-3426
Mont Ripley Ski Area
Mont Ripley Ski Area is located in Hancock, MI, two miles from Michigan Tech University. Michigan’s coolest resort, features six different runs with a vertical drop of over 400 feet. There are 22 trails, and some are the best in Michigan. You can also enjoy 33 terrain park features such as jumps or slides on your way through this great winter wonderland right outside town. It’s on our list for best Michigan ski resorts for these aspects.
Check out their live cam here.
Address: 49051 Ski Hill, Hancock, MI 49930
Website: Mont Ripley Ski Area
Phone Number: 906-487-2340
Porcupine Mountains Ski Area
There’s no better way to spend a winter day than at the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area. One can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Superior while skiing or snowboarding on 15 groomed trails, four glade trails with beautiful scenery for miles around as far as the eye can see.
Rentals available. You will need a Michigan DNR Recreation pass to enter.
Address: Michigan Highway 107, Ontonagon, MI 49953
Website: Porcupine Mountains Ski Area
Phone Number: 906-885-5209
Best Michigan Lower Peninsula Ski Resorts
There are also top-level ski resort options in Michigan’s lower peninsula. You’ll find that these resorts offer a wide range of activities and amenities, including lodging and fine dining options.
Some of the best Michigan Lower Peninsula ski resorts include:
Nubs Nob
The Pintail Peak Lodge is a great place to spend your day after skiing or riding. While there are plenty of ski runs for all levels, it also features expert-only trails so you can really challenge yourself. The view from the peak provides some awesome scenery, while warm fires keep things cozy inside on those chilly days during wintertime.
Address: 500 Nubs Nob Rd, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Website: Nubs Nob
Phone Number: 231-526-2131
The Homestead
The ski resort on Bay Mountain in Glen Arbor, Michigan, is a great place for families to enjoy the winter. The exceptional natural setting amidst Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore makes it an unforgettable winter vacation with memorable moments shared by everyone who visits this beautiful area.
There are plenty of runs designed specifically according to your level of experience. Whether you’re beginner-level skiing all day long like me (no shame), an expert looking forward to crashing bigtime after work; they’ve got something waiting just right down here below those clouds.
Address: 1 Woodridge Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Website: The Homestead
Phone Number: 231-334-5000
Treetops Resort
Treetops Resort is the perfect place to go during winter. With 24 runs and plenty of space on chairlifts, they offer what every type of skier needs. If you want some break time off from skiing or just need a break after a hard day’s work, then head over into their heated pools where guests can enjoy luxurious treatments while still getting fit because there are also fitness classes available as well, if that sounds more your speed.
In addition, Treetops has many other activities such as dog sledding and extreme tubing.
Features:
- Runs: 23 runs
- Lifts: 3 lifts
- Longest Run: 2,200′
- Vertical Drop: 225′
Address: 3962 Wilkinson Rd, Gaylord, MI 49735
Website: Treetops Resort
Phone Number: 989-732-6711
Otsego Club
Otsego Resort offers a great place to go skiing, snowboarding, or tubing. The resort has short lift lines and advanced capabilities for making snow which means you won’t have long wait times when it’s your turn on the slopes!
You can also enjoy some cross-country activities if that is more up your alley as well. There are plenty of terrain parks, so no matter what kind of skier/snowboarder, you will be able to make some amazing runs at Otsego with all levels in mind.
Address: 696 M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735
Website: Otsego Club
Phone Number: 989-732-5181
Hanson Hills
Hanson Hills features downhill skiing (including snowboarding), cross country powder- boarding, tubing & more at world-class levels.
Address: 7601 Old Lake Rd, Grayling, MI 49738
Website: Hanson Hills
Phone Number: 989-348-9266
Snow Snake
Snow Snake Ski and Golf resort is conveniently located in Central Michigan, which provides easy access from around the state. There’s also a tubing park so guests can enjoy some additional winter fun if they don’t want to ski.
Address: 3407 E Mannsiding Rd, Harrison, MI 48625
Website: Snow Snake
Phone Number: 989-539-6583
Best Southern Michigan Ski Resorts
If you want to stick close to the Metro Detroit area or in the southern part of Michigan, you have a few options. There are some great ski resorts that offer a variety of amenities, including lodging, dining, and plenty of activities.
Some of the best southern Michigan ski resorts include:
Alpine Valley
Located in Southeast Michigan, Alpine Valley has multiple ski runs for snowboarding and experienced skiers. Their winter facility also has food, lessons, rentals, and more.
Address: 6775 Highland Rd, White Lake, MI 48383
Website: Alpine Valley
Phone Number: 248-887-2180
Mt. Brighton Ski Area
Mt. Brighton is a Metro-Detroit ski and snowboard area in Michigan that opened up for business back when John F Kennedy was president. As no hills are large enough to host commercial skiing or boarding naturally in the area, these slopes are all man-made. The mountain tops reach heights of over 230 vertical feet with five chairlifts plus seven surface lifts.
Address: 4141 Bauer Rd, Brighton, MI 48116
Website: Mt. Brighton Ski Area
Phone Number: 810-229-9581
Cannonsburg Ski Area
Cannonsburg features include 21 runs from advanced to beginner, 9 lifts, including 4 rope tows, 3 chair lifts, and two Magic Carpets.
Address: 6800 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Belmont, MI 49306
Website: Cannonsburg Ski Area
Phone Number: 616-874-6711
Pine Knob Ski & Snowboard Resort
Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort features 17 ski runs, 6-chairlifts, and 3 snowboard parks. There’s no shortage of rails, jumps, or lessons at this resort.
Address: 7778 Sashabaw Rd, Village of Clarkston, MI 48348
Website: Pine Knob Ski & Snowboard Resort
Phone Number: 248-625-0800
Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl
Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl is located on the dunes of Grand Haven, Michigan. With volunteers and area donors helping to make Mulligan’s Hollow an affordable place for anyone who wants to enjoy skiing and snowboarding, they have created an amazing experience.
With the highest quality programs at a low cost, Mulligan’s Hollow is your best option for winter fun. From lift pass scholarships to freestyle clubs that will keep you sharp on top of your game, Mulligan’s is an excellent skiing option.
Address: 600 Mulligans Drive, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Website: Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl
Phone Number: 616-842-0634
Mt. Holly Ski & Snowboard Resort
Mt Holly is located in SE Michigan and offers tons of activities on a regular basis in addition to great skiing opportunities. Their multi-storied facility offers all kinds of runs for all levels of experience.
Check out their live cam here.
Address: 13536 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI 48442
Website: Mt. Holly Ski & Snowboard Resort
Phone Number: 248-634-8269
Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard
Swiss Valley is the perfect winter destination for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just getting started, Swiss Valley slopes will keep you alert. With 11 trails and 2 terrain parks that cover everything from beginner runs with beginners slope speeds up through expert-friendly blacks (and everything in between), Swiss Valleys’ vast array will leave no doubt about how much fun snowboarding really can be.
The best part? They have snowmaking capabilities, so all those who come here know exactly what they’ll get: A true gem as a best Michigan ski resort for all to enjoy.
Address: 13421 Mann St, Jones, MI 49061
Website: Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard
Phone Number: 269-244-5635
What is the Biggest Michigan Ski Resort?
The biggest Michigan ski resort is Boyne Highlands Mountain Resort. It spans 6,000 acres and has 116 runs, making it perfect for skiers of all abilities. There are also plenty of mountain biking and hiking trails to explore, plus a golf course and full-service spa on site. For a ski vacation that offers something for everyone, Boyne Mountain Resort is hard to beat.
Is Nubs Nob Better Than Boyne Highlands?
The hill at Nubs Nob is better than Boyne Highland due to the fact the terrain is more varied, the snow is better, and the day-use facilities are just as good, if not better. The prices are relatively the same at both facilities.
Which Ski Resort Has The Largest Vertical Drop?
When it comes to the largest vertical drops, no one can compete with the amazing 5,620 feet of continuous lift-served descent that is found at Revelstoke. This British Columbia ski resort also holds an unfortunate title as being known for the epicenter of snowstorms.
