Ultimate Guide to Skiing in Michigan 2025
Forget the crowded slopes of the Rockies or the exorbitant price tags of the Alps and head to these aweseom Michigan ski resorts. Michigan, affectionately nicknamed the “Mitten State,” holds a secret weapon in its winter arsenal: pristine powder, thrilling downhill runs, and a cozy charm that warms the soul.
Discover Ski Resorts Michigan: Best Skiing and Snowboarding for 2025
This isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping descents; it’s about cozy lodges crackling with laughter, après-ski adventures in charming towns, and memories made with loved ones under a star-studded sky.
I learned to ski at a few of these ski resorts in northern Michigan, and taught my kids how to ski on those very same runs. I think the Michigan ski scene is perfect for a wide range abilities. That’s why I put together this guide to help Michigan skiers find the best ski resort for you.
So buckle up, snow bunnies and seasoned veterans alike, as we navigate the slopes of Michigan’s best ski destinations, uncovering hidden gems, family-friendly fun, and budget-friendly escapes that will make your winter dreams a reality.
Ultimate Guide to Michigan Ski Resorts
As the ski capital of the Midwest, Michigan is home to more than 40 ski resorts, each offering different levels of skiing and snowboarding experiences from beginners up. From Mount Bohemia’s largest vertical drop to Mt. Brighton’s bunny hill, there’s a way for everyone to get out on the slopes in Michigan.
You’ll also find a wide variety of amenities and activities at each ski resort: in addition to snowboarding and downhill skiing, you’ll find activities like cross country skiing, snow tubing, fat tire biking, and more.
Although the length of the ski season can vary depending on the weather, Michigan’s 2023-2024 ski season already looks good.
That means you can plan on spending lots of time playing in the snow and enjoying winter activities at one of Michigan’s top-rated ski resorts. If playing in the snow isn’t your thing, you’ll also find luxurious spas and cozy lodges: perfect spots to enjoy some winter fun from inside.
Read on to discover Michigan’s best ski resorts. We’ve included links to each ski resort so that you can pull up the trails maps and purchase lift tickets, too.
Ski Resorts in Northern Michigan (Lower Peninsula)
The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Address: 600 Highland Pike Rd, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Number of Trails: 54 Runs
Located near the tip of Michigan’s mitten in Harbor Springs, Boyne Highlands is Michigan’s largest ski resort and is known for its excellent ski school and learn-to-ski programs. The stunning backdrop of northern Michigan is the home of this top-rated ski resort, a favorite of highly-seasoned skiers as well as those just starting out.
Unique Features: Boyne Highlands Resort really does take learning to ski to the next level: The Austrian-American SnowSports Academy offers lessons for beginning skiers and snowboards of all ages and abilities throughout the ski season. Boyne also gets the lake effect snow from Lake Michigan.
Amenities: There’s more than just downhill skiing and snowboarding: tubing hills, snowshoeing, ice skating, cross country skiing and dogsledding are some of the other activities you’ll find here, as well as a spa and outdoor pool. The accommodations are spacious and comfortable, ranging from hotel rooms and condominiums to townhouses, cottages and homes.
EXPERT TIP: Take a lesson or two and spend some time on the North Camelot run, and then head over to the Lois Lane and North Peak Pass runs.
Boyne Mountain Resort
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Number of Trails: 60
It’s one of the top Michigan ski resorts for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, and Boyne Mountain is a great place to start your lifelong love of skiing. Located in northern Michigan just south of Petoskey in scenic Boyne Falls, Boyne Mountain is a sprawling resort with one of Michigan’s largest indoor waterparks, Avalanche Bay.
Unique Features: Boyne’s Snowsports Academy offers both group and private lessons for children and adults; there’s also a Boyne Flyer’s Program for kids ages 7-12. They also offer wide variety of race programs on site.
Amenities: In addition to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Mountain Resort offers tubing, horseback riding, fat-tire snow biking, ice skating, snowshoeing, a zip-line and Sno-Go biking on terrain hills. Night skiing is popular here with beautiful skiing trails : the snow sparkles like crystals under the lights. There’s a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotel rooms to condos, cottages and entire homes.
Crystal Mountain Ski Resort
Address: 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683
Number of Trails: 59
Located in a quietly beautiful corner of northern Michigan near Frankfort, Crystal Mountain is a perfect spot to help your kids develop a lifelong love for skiing.
Unique Features: Crystal Mountain is a top ski resort for families. Family-owned and operated, this fun spot is a long-time favorite with skiers of all ages and abilities due to the variety of runs. The diverse terrain offers opportunity to master the basics on gentle slopes and transition up to more challenging runs (think black diamond) when you are ready.
Kids learn-to-ski programs include the Nanny McSki and Crystal Kids Ski and Snowboard; while older kids and adults can start with either private or group on demand lessons. There’s also a Burton Learn-to-Ride program for snowboarders.
If you have experienced skiers in your party, there’s also a Master the Mountain for Intermediate to Advanced Skiers, and a Family McSki Program offers tours of the mountains and lessons on learning how to ski together safely.
Amenities: There’s tons of fun activities including snowshoeing, fat-tire biking and horse-drawn surrey rides, ice-skating and more. Crystal Mountain doesn’t skimp on the apres-ski, either: Crystal Spa and the indoor fitness center is a great place to relax after a day on the slopes. Accommodations range from comfortable hotel rooms and full-service condominiums to comfortable cottages and large homes, all within easy distance to the lifts.
The Homestead
Address: 1 Woodridge Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Number of Trails: 15
The Homestead is nestled along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore (named one of the “Most Beautiful Places in America” by Good Morning America), and the resort fits perfectly into this stunning landscape.
Unique Features: Skiing at The Homestead is geared towards families with a variety of runs, although most of the hills are for beginner to intermediate-level skiers. The Homestead offers ski instruction for all ages, too: group or private lessons are available from certified ski instructors at a relaxed pace.
Amenities: After you’ve had your fill of downhill skiing, there’s much more to do: Snowshoeing and Cross-Country (Nordic) skiing are great ways to explore the trails in the dunes, and a full-service luxury spa and salon and fitness center is also a popular spot. All of rooms clean and very comfortably appointed: think upscale rustic lodge. They range from hotel rooms to condominiums and cottages to homes, and all are lovely.
PRO TIP: After a day of skiing, bundle up and head over to the Lake Michigan shoreline and try and catch the sun as it dips into the lake: it’s a truly stunning sight.
Schuss Mountain at Shanty Creek
Address: 5780 Shanty Creek Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615
Number of Trails: 52
Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire, MI is a long-time favorite destination for skiers of all abilities, including me. I took my first ski lessons on Summit Mountain here many years ago.
Unique Features: There are two mountains here: Summit and Schuss Mountain. Although this resort has some serious runs (including terrain parks) for advanced skiers and snowboarders, it is also dedicated to making lifelong skiers out of everyone.
There’s a Ski School, staffed by certified professional ski instructors, offering private lessons for children and adults, as well as Hire-A-Pro Private Lessons. A Super Sunday’s program offers a lift ticket, rental equipment, and how-to learning stations for a discounted price and is a great chance to get comfortable on skis in a low-key setting.
Amenities: There’s more than just skiing: you’ll find everything from a multi-lane alpine tubing park, dog sledding and cross country skiing to fat-tire biking and ice-fishing, as well as a full-service spa and fitness center. Accommodations vary at Shanty Creek, too: hotel rooms and condominiums to homes at a variety of price points.
More Places to Ski in Northern Michigan
Caberfae Peaks
Address: 1 Caberfae Ln, Cadillac, MI 49601
Number of Trails: 34
The oldest ski reosrt in Michigan, Caberfae Peaks is also one of the most underrated. You’ll find some of the steepest vertical drops in Michigan, as well as a large terrain park, at this ski resort in northwest Michigan.
Unique Features: Situated on the highest natural point in Lower Michigan, Caberfae offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Manistee River Valley and Torch Lake. There is diverse terrain here that caters to all skill levels, with slopes ranging from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert terrain. The “Mother Superior” run is particularly notable, offering a long and thrilling descent with a mix of open fields and tree runs.
Amenities: Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Caberfae offers tubing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, providing options for all members of the family to enjoy. Caberfae also offers a variety of programs and activities specifically designed for children, including a dedicated learning area, magic carpets, and supervised childcare.
Nubs Nob
Address: 500 Nubs Nob Rd, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Number of Trails: 53
Nubs Nob is a favorite northern Michigan destination for advanced skiers and those just starting out as well, with a truly relaxed vibe. The Nubs Nob ski lessons are some of the best around.
Unique Features: The resort is situated on a scenic bluff overlooking Little Traverse Bay, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Nubs Nob is known for its reliable snow cover, thanks to its state-of-the-art snowmaking system. This system was even awarded a patent in 1963. Nubs Nob also boasts three terrain parks, including a superpipe, rails, and boxes, catering to all levels of freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
Amenities: The resort has a lively après-ski scene, with live music and drinks available at The Nubby’s Pub. While Nubs Nob does not have lodging on-site, there are many hotels and condos in the Harbor Springs/Petoskey area that are just a short drive away.
Otsego Resort
Address: 696 M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735
Number of Trails: 31
Another underated ski resort in Northern Michigan, Otsego Resort is one of the best-kept secrets for serious skiers. In fact, the ski resort served as a training ground for a 2010 Olympic snowboarding team, drawn by the state-of-the-art halfpipe.
Unique Features: Its position at the highest point in the Michigan Snowbelt ensures reliable snow cover and stunning views. The diverse terrain caters to all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert slopes.
Amenities: The resort prioritizes families with convenient on-site lodging options, a top-notch ski school, and short lift lines. Additionally, they offer a variety of activities beyond skiing, like snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Treetops Resort
Address: 3962 Wilkinson Rd, Gaylord, MI 49735
Number of Trails: 23
This central Michigan destination has a stunning setting: breathtaking views overlooking a valley. Treetops Resort is a perfect spot for a family winter getaway, with activities geared toward family fun. In addition to cross country and downhill skiing and snowboarding, you can also try dog-sledding.
Unique Features: Treetops goes beyond just downhill skiing and snowboarding. It boasts a variety of winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, tubing, and even fat-tire biking, catering to different interests and ages within families. This year, they’ve introduced sleigh rides, too.
Hanson Hills
Address: 7601 Old Lake Rd, Grayling, MI 49738
Number of Trails: 11 Runs
Snow Snake
Address: 3407 E Mannsiding Rd, Harrison, MI 48625
Number of Trails: 10
Bittersweet Ski Area – Temporarily Closed
600 River Rd, Otsego, MI 49078
Ski Resorts in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers some challenging skiing, and the terrain in the Upper Peninsula is similar to the Rockies.
You’ll find more dramatic vertical drops and longer, wide-open runs. If you’re seeking a more challenging ski experience (with some easier runs mixed in), be sure and check out these top ski resorts.
Big Snow Resort
Blackjack Mountain
Address: N11251 Black Jack Rd, Bessemer, MI 49911
Number of Ski Runs: 56
Indianhead Mountain – Big Snow Resort
Address: 500 Indianhead Rd, Wakefield, MI 49968
Number of Ski Runs: 30
Big Snow is one of the biggest ski resorts in the Upper Peninsula, one resort with two amazing ski mountains: Blackjack and Indianhead. Both are worth a visit.
Unique Features: This is snow country: this area receives more than 200 inches of snow annually. With a wide range of runs from very easy through double diamond, Indianhead Mountain is a very family-friendly spot to ski, with 195 acres of skiable terrain. It’s one of our favorite ski resorts in the U.P.
Amenities: You’ll afind snowshoeing, ice skating, cross country skiing, and other fun winter activities. In fact, you can even rent a snowmobile to ride the endless miles of trails through the pristine U.P. forest.
Big Powderhorn Mountain
Address: 11375 Powderhorn Rd, Bessemer, MI 49911
Number of Ski Runs: 45
This family-friendly ski resort in the western Upper Peninsula is a favorite mid-west destination for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The sprawling resort offers enough diversity of slopes to satisfy everyone: there’s truly enough snow to go around. This means more advanced skiers will be able to enjoy themselves while beginners can learn comfortably at their own pace.
Unique Features: Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort is great for beginners and those who have never stepped into a ski or snowboard boot: private and semi-private as well as group lessons are available for all ages and abilities from top-certified ski instructors.
Amenities: Introductory packages that include lessons, rentals, and lift tickets make this Upper Peninsula spot attractive to the pocketbook as well. A variety of lodging choices are available: choose from spacious and comfortable condos, chalets, or entire homes.
Mount Bohemia
Address: 6532 Lac La Belle Road, Lac La Belle (Mohawk), Michigan
Number of Ski Runs: 95
If you’re looking got do some Extreme Skiing, this is your place. Mount Bohemia is not for beginners: with the longest runs, the highest vertical drop (Voodoo Mountain) and deepest powder in the Midwest, this is a hidden secret is a true treasure for backcountry skiers & riders.
Ski Brule
Address: 397 Brule Mountain Rd, Iron River, MI 49935
Numbr Ski Runs: 17
Ski Brule has some serious snow-making machines, and they’re usually the first to open and the last to close.
This fun, family-friendly ski resort in the western U.P. is a convenient drive from Chicago and Milwaukee. Located in Iron River, it offers one of the best terrain parks in Michigan along with a double black diamond run.
Amenities: There’s a lot to do here: in addition to skiing and snowboarding, you’ll find snow tubing, crosscountry skiing, and snowshoeing. There’s also ice skating, sleigh rides, marshmallow roasts, and torchlight parades, making it a perfect snow setting for some family fun.
More Places to Ski in the Upper Peninsula
- Pine Mountain Resort
N3332 Pine Mountain Rd, Iron Mountain, MI 49801Comfortable lodging and a wide variety of ski runs makes this great spot for families, beginners and groups with varying ability. - Marquette Mountain
4501 M-553, Marquette, MI 49855Just minutes from downtown Marquette, Marquette Mountain offers some of the most challenging skiing in the area. You’ll find a very cool terrain park and they also offer night skiing, thanks to LED lighting. - Ski the Porkies in the Porcupine Mountain range offers a unique experience in a natural setting on the shores of Lake Superior.
- Mont Ripley Ski Area in Hancock is owned by Michigan Tech University and has some of the most beautiful views – along with some challenging terrain. Check out the 440’ ft vertical drop.
Skiing in West Michigan
Just outside of Grand Rapids, MI, you’ll find some ski areas popular with both skiers and snowboarders. Although these resorts do not offer accommodations on site, you’ll find plenty of lovely spots to stay nearby: the Grand Rapids area is one of Michigan’s top travel destinations.
Cannonsburg Ski Area
6800 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Belmont, MI 49306
Just a little northeast of Grand Rapids, is Cannonsburg Ski Area. You’ll find 18 runs and two terrain parks, tubing and fat tire biking. Canonsburg is also home to a great program for girls ages 3-5 called “Mountain Minnies,” which introduces the fun of downhills skiing at a young age.
Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl
Mulligan Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417
This local ski hill in Grand Haven is intent on making skiing a family thing: in fact, parent’s always ski free! Set on the Lake Michigan coastline, you’ll get some truly stunning views of the lake here, and some good skiing, too. This is a My Michigan Beach favorite spot for beginning skiers
Timber Ridge Ski Area
07500 23 1/2 St, Gobles, MI 49055
Skiing in Southeast Michigan
Alpine Valley Ski
6775 Highland Rd, White Lake, MI 48383
This smaller ski resort in White Lake Township packs a lot of good skiing into a small area. Alpine Valley offers a great mix of beginner, intermediate and black diamond runs as well as three terrain parks.
Mt. Brighton Ski Area
4141 Bauer Rd, Brighton, MI 48116
If you love in metro Detroit and ski, chances are good that you started out at Mt. Brighton. It’s a great little mountain with a surprisingly wide range of runs: you’ll find 24 of them here.
Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort
7778 Sashabaw Rd, Village of Clarkston, MI 48348
Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort is located in Clarkston in southeast Michigan, just north of the metro Detroit area. You’ll find three terrain parks here, and a good variety of runs, too. Pine Knob offers great group and individual ski lessons through their ski school.
Mount Holly
13536 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI 48442
Swiss Valley
13421 Mann St, Jones, MI 49061
Conclusion
Michigan offers a wide variety of skiing snowboarding options, ranging from full-service resorts with luxurious amenities to smaller ski hills perfect for hitting the slopes at any level of ability. Take advantage of the beautiful Michigan winter and get out there!
Need more suggestions for skiing? Use the Interactive Michigan Ski Resort Map to help you find the best spots for skiing in Michigan in 2024!